Most, most people still only seek a specialist when their dog is already limping, in pain, or visibly struggling with movement. However, a significant portion of musculoskeletal problems could be prevented with a little attention, awareness, and appropriate professional support. In this article, relying on the latest professional recommendations, we explain why it is worth dealing with musculoskeletal prevention even in healthy dogs.
When should we start prevention?
The answer is simple: as early as possible. Ideally, we should pay attention to correct movement patterns, proper nutrition, and gradual loading from puppyhood.
During the growth phase (especially between 4-12 months of age), the dog's bones and muscles develop at different rates. In this period, gradualness and favoring harmonious forms of movement are particularly important – too intense running, frequent jumping, or repetitive monotonous movements (e.g., too much ball play) can damage the joints in the long term.
A well-structured prevention program can be started as early as 3-4 months of age – naturally, tailored to the dog's age, breed, and exercise needs. If you are new to this role, it's best to seek professional advice.
How often should you take your dog to a movement therapist?
In the case of healthy dogs, it might be sufficient to visit a canine movement therapist 1-2 times a year to check the condition of the muscles, joints, and the kinetic chain. In the kinetic chain, individual body parts influence each other – for example, if a muscle imbalance develops around the pelvis, it can alter the movements of the shoulder girdle in the long term. As a layman, we rarely notice these in time, but an experienced movement therapist can spot loading asymmetries from the first signs. If deemed necessary, they will suggest a form of movement therapy suitable for your dog. However, in the case of actively sporting, competing dogs, or breeds with a higher genetic predisposition, more frequent, regular check-ups and preventive therapy are recommended. Movement therapists will also teach you to notice the small signs so that you can confidently navigate the world of prevention – literally.
Can you do anything for prevention at home?
Yes, absolutely! Canine physiotherapists can suggest individual exercise routines, stretches, and strengthening exercises for home. A dog's balance and body awareness, i.e., proprioception, can be developed with targeted exercises – for example, standing on unstable surfaces, or slow movements. These help the muscles react subtly to micro-loads and reduce the risk of injury during play or sports. It is very important that these are put together by a specialist according to the dog's condition. Random online exercises, unfortunately, can do more harm than good if not applied correctly.
Why are nutrition and nutrient supplementation important?
The health of the musculoskeletal system is fundamentally influenced not only by movement but also by diet. For the proper functioning of cartilage, tendons, and muscles, vitamins, minerals, amino acids, as well as special active ingredients and "lubricants" are needed, which you can provide with a balanced diet rich in macro- and micronutrients. Diet means not only your dog's main food but also dietary supplements and treats. It is important to choose all of them consciously.
Not just for sports dogs!
It would be a mistake to think that musculoskeletal prevention is a "luxury" reserved only for sports dogs performing on agility courses. A dog living in an apartment and going for short walks can be just as much at risk – or even more so – for example, due to overweight, monotonous loading, or incorrect lifting. Prevention, therefore, is for every dog – regardless of age, breed, and activity level.
6 things NOT to do if you want to avoid trouble
Often, we don't even realize how harmful our everyday habits can be to our dog's musculoskeletal system. Avoid these mistakes if you want to ensure them a long-term, mobile, pain-free life.
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Do not let your dog become overweight! Every extra pound puts increased strain on the joints.
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Do not let them live on slippery floors! Constant slipping can lead to micro-traumas and muscle tension.
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Do not skip warm-up and cool-down before/after active movement or play!
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Do not let them jump out of the car or on/off furniture frequently, especially if they are still a puppy, but preferably not later either!
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Do not overload them suddenly, especially if you plan a more active program after a long rest!
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Do not neglect regular and varied forms of movement – dogs also need daily active exercise.
The most common musculoskeletal problem – and what you can do about it
Many musculoskeletal problems do not start with lameness at all. A slight tilt to one side when sitting, favoring one side when climbing stairs, or the dog stretching less often than before – all can be telling signs. These are often only noticed by a specialist working with the owner, but it is all the more important to recognize them in time.
Movement therapists most frequently encounter the problem of muscle tension and joint overuse resulting from uneven loading. These can remain asymptomatic for a long time but eventually cause pain, lameness, and compensatory movement patterns. With proper prevention (regular check-ups, targeted exercises, dietary supplementation), their development can be reduced or reversed in time.
What happens if you don't deal with prevention?
Untreated musculoskeletal problems gradually worsen. Initially, there are "only" minor pains, limited mobility, reduced desire for play and movement, but later, cartilage degeneration, chronic inflammation, and changes requiring surgery can develop. And last but not least: the dog's quality of life significantly deteriorates. Prevention is not a luxury – but one of the keys to a long, happy, pain-free life for your pet, which is in your hands.
