How much exercise for my 8 yr old lab?

[sharbie]

He is fit and well but lately i have noticed when we are out he lays down and pants.Not all frisky and puppyish on his walks anymore although he always wants to go out.
He has never had loads and loads of exercise ( i think) but probably enough iykwim.
Is this a sign of slowing down/getting older?
How much do you think he needs a day??

bump anyone?

thanks

last bump

If his ability to exercise has changed it may be worth getting him checked by a vet. He may seem to be well but you cannot see some problems such as heart disease and others like osteoarthritis are often put down to 'slowing down' but could be treated. Is he overweight?

If all ok then I would think at least 30 mins a day. My lab is 9 1/2 and still very lively - will happily do a 2 hour walk (when I have the time)

He still needs about 1.5 hours (split into x45 mins) a day and should happily enjoy this, is he over weight at all? it could be thats he is slowing down a little. My last lab at that age would still enjoy a good run around with a ball and happily walk for a good few hours, she was no spring chicken but she was still very fit at 8.

Im no expert but personaly i would maybe get him checked over at the vet, just to make sure there is no medical reason for him slowing down.

after about half an hour he has had enough
is fine after another half an hour later on though

will think about vets thanks for the replies