[LanaHamilton]

Originally Posted by gemy

First LP in one knee at Grade 1 is very mild. But just to note, different vets can and do grade LP's at different grades. NOt something to deep six about, but as I have said just a note.

I would still limit jumping as much as I could. But more importantly start intelligently exercising your dog.

What do I mean by that statement?

Here we go. Normal Exercising every day, at least two walks on lead, for at least 15 minutes, better 20 minutes, and great if you can do 30 minutes per day.

You want to build good muscle tone everywhere. This is very important.

Sharp, high speed turns to chase balls especially on slippery ground or surfaces not suggested. Sorry that means no fly ball , or discus competitions with your pup.

Stack your dog every day on a table any table - put a non slip surface down. Treat a lot. Why the stack? Because you will start to train your dog to engage the postural small muscles.

Stack means - to place your dog in a stand where-in the rear paws are in line with the tip of the ischium-their pelvic bones and the front paws are under their shoulders. Try to work up to a 3minute still stack every day. You will correct the leg/paw placement - if they break the stack no treat. And re-adjust legs.

On you walks, walk uphill a lot. Do downhill on a S curve. Not directly downhill.

Walk if you can your dog on pebbly - gravel surfaces. This will strengthen the all important foot muscles. Sand is very good too, but different.

Swimming is a wonderfull exercise for all dogs, but especially dogs with joint problems. You can use a kiddly pool. You can also just walk your dog along the waterfront in the water up past their knees.

Now teach and it is fun to teach this. Sit, beg, stand. Use a wall in the beginning. This exercise not only strengthens back muscles, but the thigh muscles. It must be taught for your dog on a non slip surface.

Now if you have a dog that is crazy for chasing toys, do it in the water most often. Never on dewey slippery grass, and limit that chase and only do it after you have warmed up their muscles.

Teach your dog to crawl backwards.... wonderfulll exercise.

These are just a few ideas.

Also yes joint supplements are great!

Let me know if you have any questions.

What great advise! However, I'm not sure exactly what the stacking is...would you care to explain it again? Thank you!!!!!