This post may contain compensated links. Find more info in our disclosure policy
Walking and running with my dogs for 2–3 miles every day was a cherished part of our routine—until I fractured my foot. Suddenly, I couldn’t walk for eight weeks, yet my dogs still needed their daily exercise. My husband stepped in to help, taking them to the lake once or twice a day so they could run around and burn off energy. Some days, this was enough, but other times, they still had energy to spare.
With my mobility restricted, I had to get creative to keep them engaged. If you’re recovering from an injury and wondering how to care for your active dog, here are some strategies that worked for me.
1. Engage Your Dogs Indoors
Since I couldn’t take them for long walks, I focused on keeping them entertained inside the house. Here are a few ways to keep dogs engaged when outdoor exercise is limited:
- Interactive Toys – Puzzle toys that dispense treats kept them mentally occupied. This Treat Dispenser is a good option.
- Hide and Seek – I hid treats around the house, encouraging them to sniff them out.
- Tug-of-War – This game provided a fun energy outlet, especially for my more playful dog. This Rope Toy is a durable option.
- Short Training Sessions – Teaching new tricks or reinforcing commands helped burn mental energy.
2. Utilize Help from Others
If you’re unable to meet your dog’s exercise needs, consider enlisting help:
- Family & Friends – If you have willing friends or neighbors, they may be happy to help with short walks or play sessions.
- Professional Dog Walkers – Hiring a dog walker can be a great temporary solution.
- Doggy Daycare – If your dog is social, daycare can provide exercise and stimulation while you recover.
3. Adjusting Expectations
While my husband took on the bulk of the outdoor exercise, I had to accept that some days, my dogs might not get as much activity as usual—and that’s okay. Keeping a balance between their needs and my recovery was crucial. With creativity and outside help, I was able to ensure they stayed happy and active while I healed.
If you’re recovering from an injury, I hope these strategies help you navigate pet care while prioritizing your own healing. Do you have any tips for keeping dogs entertained when mobility is limited? Share in the comments!