Your Dog's Exercise Needs

Why do Dogs need to Exercise?

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Many dog owners are under the mistaken assumption that  spending time with their dogs on the weekend makes up   for time missed during the week. This is wrong. Playing  and exercise need to be maintained throughout each week  and also maintained at a consistent level. Each exercise  session should begin with a fifteen-minute ‘warm up’ and  end with a ‘cool down’ session. This approach to exercise  will prevent muscle strain and joint injury.

How long should a dog exercise?

Similar to exercise for humans, animal exercise is best when it benefits mind and body. A popular misconception regarding animal exercise is that animals exercise whenever they are outside. In fact, animals spend little time exercising unless they have human companionship.
Dog owners are well advised to establish a regularly scheduled time for exercise with their dogs. In addition to the health benefits, frequent exercise will prevent the dog from behaving in a destructive manner out of boredom. If left alone for extended periods of time, the dog might dig large holes in the yard or chew on fencing or lawn furniture.

A puppy doesn’t need a strenuous workout; walking at a steady pace should give the dog enough exercise to reduce energy. If the dog does not appear to have benefited from a walk, additional exercise is necessary. The walk can be extended or yard play can be introduced.

The breed of your dog must be considered when you think about an exercise regimen. Small breeds, with smaller legs and lungs, should not be taken for extended walks or runs. In fact, ALL breeds of puppies should avoid lengthy walking or running. Strenuous exercise for young dogs can result in joint injury or broken bones. There are quite a few fun and interesting games that dogs can play, and these games provide enjoyment as well as exercise for the dogs and dog owners as well.

Where Did It Go? –

The Travel Tunnel or Maze –

Hard Ball Catch – Buy a ball with a tough surface from the pet store. Dogs love to chase and catch these balls because they bounce high, they travel fast through the air, and they’re built to withstand strong biting. Retrieval Games – This is an old standby during which your dog is taught to retrieve. A dog who retrieves develops obedience along

with exercise. Note that anything that is retrieved should be thrown for distance, not height. If a dog jumps too high, too often, debilitating knee or joint injuries may occur.

Family Swimming –  A home with a pool is deal for a dog that has been  taught not to fear water. Make this a family event; everyone can go swimming at a designated time  and   everyone can keep an eye on the dog. This  exercise  has multiple benefits for both humans and animals.

Also, if you have plastic toys, the dog could play fetch in the pool or swim laps with a family member. Never allow the dog access to the pool when he is unsupervised. Train your dog how to exit the pool by using the steps or a dog ramp.

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