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Practical guides on AI, answer engine optimisation and getting found online. Written or reviewed by Kirsty Skeates.

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Five indoor exercises for your dog

Gentle, low-impact and done on a rug in your living room. Tap a card, count your reps, tick it off.

0 of 5 done today

1Sit to stand5 slow reps

Builds strength in the back legs and core, a little like a squat.

  1. Stand in front of your dog on a non-slip rug or mat.
  2. Ask for a sit, then lure them up into a stand with a treat held at nose height.
  3. Go slowly. A straight, square sit matters more than speed.
2Cookie stretch3 each side

A gentle stretch for the neck and back that keeps them supple.

  1. With your dog standing, hold a treat by their nose.
  2. Slowly move it towards their shoulder, then their hip, so they bend to follow it.
  3. Hold for a count of three, then do the other side. Skip this one if your dog has a neck or back problem.
3Square stand3 holds

Encourages your dog to share their weight evenly across all four legs.

  1. Ask your dog to stand with all four feet square underneath them.
  2. Reward them for staying still and balanced.
  3. Build up from 5 seconds to 15 seconds over a few days.
4Slow figure of eight4 loops

Gentle weaving that works both sides of the body evenly.

  1. Place two cushions or chairs about two metres apart.
  2. On lead, walk your dog slowly in a figure of eight around them.
  3. Keep it to a calm walking pace, never a trot.
5Find it1 round of 5 to 10 treats

Sniffing is tiring in the best way, with no impact on joints.

  1. Ask your dog to wait while you hide a few treats around one room.
  2. Say "find it" and let them search at their own pace.
  3. Start easy and make the hiding places harder as they improve.

Safety first. Check with your vet or a qualified canine physiotherapist before trying exercises with a dog that is recovering from injury or surgery, or has a known health condition. Use a non-slip surface. Stop if your dog seems sore, lame or unwilling.

Full guide with tips for each exercise