Perfect nutrition + the wrong exercise = joint problems?

Even with the best puppy food, making the wrong exercise choices can cause joint damage. Here’s what every puppy owner should know about balancing nutrition and exercise.

Why puppy joints are so vulnerable

Puppy bones are literally soft. Calcium and phosphorus in puppy food support bone growth, but developing bones remain fragile until they’re fully formed. Too much impact before they’re ready can cause permanent damage.

Growth plates only close completely between 12-18 months (depending on the breed). Until then, joints are extra sensitive to overload.

Common exercise mistakes

❌ What to avoid:

Long walks or running
- Too much impact on soft growth plates
- Puppies are often too excited to stop on their own

Walking on loose sand or uneven terrain
- Increased risk of slipping or stumbling
- Unstable surfaces put extra strain on joints

High-impact activities
- Jumping on/off furniture
- Climbing stairs
- Agility training before 18 months

Sudden stops during retrieving games

The "tire them out" mentality

✅ What to do instead:

Controlled, gentle movement
- Short walks on flat surfaces
- Free play at your puppy’s own pace
- Swimming

The 5-minute rule – but with nuance
The well-known guideline of "5 minutes per month of age, twice a day" is a starting point. More important: let your puppy set the pace. Controlled, gentle movement is always good. Think sniffing, relaxed walks, and calm exploration.

Mental stimulation
- Puzzle toys
- Basic training (sit, stay, come)
- New scents and experiences

The nutrition + exercise connection

Perfect food can’t make up for the wrong kind of exercise. Both aspects must be right:
- Proper nutrition: Balanced calcium/phosphorus for bone building
- Appropriate exercise: Controlled activity for healthy development

Too little exercise isn’t ideal either. Puppies need activity for muscle growth and coordination, but it must suit their stage of development.

Warning signs

Stop immediately if you notice:
- Puppy panting excessively
- Limping after exercise
- Reluctance to continue
- Seeking rest during activity

Remember: A tired puppy isn’t always a happy one. Over-tiredness can be just as harmful as too little exercise.