I Can’t Run Like I Used To, But I Still Want to Play

If dogs could speak our language, many senior pups would tell us this exact sentence.They’d look at us with those wise, slightly cloudy eyes and say, “I may not be the speed demon I once was… but I still want to have fun with you.”

The truth is, dogs don’t stop wanting to play just because their bodies slow down. The desire to interact, to explore, to feel engaged, that never fades. What does change is how they can participate.

At Homely Petz, we meet so many owners who think playtime is “over” when their dog starts showing signs of ageing. But in reality, it’s just the start of a new chapter, one where games become more about connection than competition, and fun is tailored to keep their bodies comfortable while their spirits soar.

Why Play Matters at Every Age

Even for senior dogs, play isn’t just a nice extra, it’s essential for:

• Physical health: Light, regular movement helps keep joints lubricated, muscles active, and weight in check, which is especially important for older pups prone to arthritis.

• Mental sharpness: Games that make them think sniffing, solving puzzles, or remembering cues, help keep their brains working and delay cognitive decline.

• Emotional wellbeing: Play strengthens your bond, reduces anxiety, and gives them a sense of purpose. Dogs are pack animals, and playing together reinforces their place in the family.

• Happiness: The tail wags, the bright eyes, the goofy expressions, they’re signs your dog is still loving life, no matter their age.

  
  

Signs Your Dog is Ready for ‘Senior Play’

You might notice:

• Slower movement when running.

• Hesitation before jumping or climbing.

• Shorter bursts of energy.

• More rest breaks during walks.

• Reluctance to play rough or chase for long.

These aren’t signs to stop playing. They’re signs to adapt the play.

Gentle, Joint-Friendly Games to Try

1. Nose Work Adventures- Hide a few treats around the garden or house and let your dog sniff them out. Scent games are low-impact but high-reward, tapping into a dog’s natural instincts and giving them an exciting mental workout.

2. Slow-Mo Fetch - Instead of throwing a ball full-pelt across the park, roll it along the ground or toss it just a few metres. Let them enjoy the chase without the strain.

3. Tug with a Twist - Gentle tug-of-war can still be great fun, just use softer toys and avoid pulling too hard.

4. Puzzle Feeders - Swap one of their meals for a food puzzle or treat dispenser. They’ll work for their food and keep their mind active without overexerting themselves.

5. Hide and Seek - Go hide in another room and call their name. The joy of finding you is often better than any toy.

6. Swimming (if they like water)It’s gentle on the joints, builds muscle strength, and keeps them cool in warmer weather.

Watch Their Cues

Older dogs are wonderfully honest communicators. If they need a break, they’ll take one. If they’re tired, they’ll slow down. Your job is to respect those cues and keep sessions short, sweet, and positive.

The goal isn’t to push them, it’s to let them win. Every game should end with them feeling like the champion they still are.

Keeping the Spirit Alive

We’ve seen countless senior dogs at Homely Petz who prove that age is just a number when it comes to joy. They may move slower, but they light up the same way they did as puppies when the toy box comes out or when their human says “Shall we play?”

So don’t pack away the toys just yet. Change the rules, slow the pace, adapt the game, but keep the fun alive. After all, your dog might not be able to run like they used to… but they will always, always want to play.