Creating a Safe Exercise Routine for Overweight Pets
Overweight pets are increasingly common—and while those extra rolls may look cute, they can have serious effects on mobility, joint health, and overall well-being. The good news? A safe, structured exercise routine can dramatically improve your pet’s quality of life.
This guide outlines practical, vet-approved ways to help overweight pets move comfortably, safely, and consistently.
Creating a Safe Exercise Routine for Overweight Pets
Why Weight Matters
Extra weight increases strain on:
Joints (especially hips, knees, elbows)
The spine
The heart and lungs
Soft tissues (risk of sprains/strains)
Inflammatory pathways — contributing to chronic pain
Many mobility issues seen in physiotherapy actually stem from (or are worsened by) excess weight.
Before Starting: Get a Professional Assessment
A safe exercise plan should start with:
A veterinary check-up (rule out heart issues, arthritis level, metabolic conditions)
A physiotherapy assessment (identify weak areas, muscle imbalances, and mobility limitations)
A realistic goal plan (weight, strength, stamina, pain management)
This helps prevent injury and ensures each exercise is tailored to your pet’s current ability.
Core Principles of Safe Exercise for Overweight Pets
1. Start Slow
Overweight bodies fatigue quickly.
Begin with short, gentle activities
Build duration and intensity gradually
Focus on consistency instead of performance
2. Prioritise Low-Impact Movement
To protect joints:
Flat, slow leash walks
Controlled indoor exercises
Physiotherapy-guided strengthening
Hydrotherapy (if available and appropriate)
3. Avoid High-Risk Activities
Skip activities with sudden force or jumping:
Ball throwing
High-impact agility
Slick floors
Outdoor running
These place excessive strain on joints and soft tissues.
Recommended Exercises
Gentle Walking
Start: 5–10 minutes, 1–2 times/day
Build by 1–2 minutes per walk per week
Keep pace steady, avoid hills initially
Use a harness to reduce strain on the neck
Strength & Stability Exercises (Physio-Guided)
Great for safe calorie burn + improving mobility:
Weight shifting: builds core and limb strength
Sit-to-stand: similar to a squat
Cavaletti poles (low height): improves limb range and coordination
Figure-8 walking: engages stabilising muscles
Balance-pad work: gentle proprioceptive conditioning
Always start small and supervised.
Indoor Activity Ideas
Perfect for hot or rainy days:
Slow-paced “find the treat” scent games (using low-cal treats)
Controlled step-ups (onto a low, stable platform)
Toy rolling for slow movement — not fast chasing
Short hallway walks to avoid overexcitement
Supporting Weight Loss Beyond Exercise
Exercise works best when paired with:
A measured, vet-recommended diet plan
Eliminating table scraps
Using part of daily kibble as training treats
Scheduled feeding times
Regular progress tracking with your physiotherapist
How Physiotherapy Helps Overweight Pets
At C.A.R.E., we can support overweight pets by:
Creating a custom exercise plan
Managing existing pain from arthritis or soft tissue strain
Using laser therapy to reduce inflammation
Offering guided strengthening programmes
Monitoring safe progression
Advising on home modifications to prevent slips and falls
A well-structured physiotherapy plan prevents injury and maximises safe weight loss.
Conclusion
Helping an overweight pet become active again doesn’t require intense workouts—just consistency, patience, and a safe plan. With the right approach, pets gain mobility, lose weight, build strength, and enjoy a happier, more comfortable life.
If you’re unsure where to start, I’d love to help you create a personalised, safe exercise routine for your pet.
You can book a physiotherapy assessment through our website.