Exercise for Dogs
Exercise for Dogs: Why it's so important and how and your dog can do it together.
Just like humans, dogs need exercise... and they need lots of it. Our dogs are more or less at our mercy. And it's our responsibility to make sure that we give our dogs what they need and don't let them down. One of the best things you can do for your dog as well as yourself is to be sure that he gets the exercise he needs on a regular basis. Exercise for dogs is something you should consider a basic necessity... like water.
All the time I'll hear people talk about (and sometimes complain about) how rowdy, high strung, energetic, and even destructive that their dogs are. And often the solution is simple... give them the exercise that they need! A well exercised dog is a tired dog and a tired dog is much less likely to be a destructive or hyper dog.
It's surprising to me how many owners are just amazed at how well their dogs behave when they first come home from staying with us at the kennel. They'll say "Oh! He must have had so much fun, he was so worn out and slept through the whole night and we even had to force him to get out of bed the next morning... I got to sleep in for the first time in years!". Well, our "secret" is allowing them to run, play, and get plenty of exercise. So that when it is time for them to return to their kennel, they're tired and less likely to become bored or frustrated or even destructive.
When considering whether or not to bring a dog into your home, one of the top considerations on this should be "how much time and energy do I have to make sure that my dog gets daily exercise?". If you work 12 hours a day, don't have anyone to help you, and can't afford doggy day care, then you're definitely not ready for a dog.
Frankly, it's not fair to let your dog hold in their energy and then expect them to be well-behaved... and it's not realistic. Regular exercise for dogs is a life necessity.
Here are some fun ways to exercise your dog:
Doggy Play Dates. If you have friends or family members that have dogs, join forces and exercise together. Many cities have "dog parks" where you can run and play together, or if you or your friend has a fenced in back yard, that's a great way to let your dog get exercise and enjoy some socialization with another dog as well.
The Classics. Don't forget that exercise for dogs can come in the form of cheap games. Dogs love cheap games! All you need is a tennis ball or a frisbee and your dog will be having a blast and getting exercise in no time! In addition, any time that you play with your dog instead of just letting him loose in the backyard will help you bond with your dog and he'll help you release some of your pent up energy from a long day at work as well!
Swimming. Many dogs are expert swimmers and love nothing more than being in the water with you cheering them on from the shore and swimming is great exercise!
Go Exploring. May dogs are happy just to be with their owners... and nothing would make them happier than to go on an adventure with you. That can be as simple as a long walk in a new place. If you live in an area with lots of parks and trails, try a new place that will keep both you and your dog excited to go out for your next hike or stroll.
Tip: Don't forget the water! If you leave home to take your dog out for exercise, don't forget to bring plenty of water for you both. There are many inexpensive options for collapsible bowls and
travel bowls that'll make it easy for you to make sure your dog stays hydrated while having fun.
Leave Exercise for Dogs and explore other great dog care tips & info. Start at my Home page.
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