The Importance of Giving Your Dog Exercise

Double fetch!

It is very important that your dog gets regular exercise, and there are many health benefits in making sure that he gets enough.  Obviously, the main benefits are that he will be healthier and keep a good weight when he is active.  In the long run, he will live longer.  Dogs that get regular exercise have a reduced risk of heart problems and other illnesses (digestive problems, depression or stress, diabetes, arthritis, and urinary infections), so maintaining their health by exercise is highly recommended.

Exercising your dog can also eliminate unwanted behavior by reducing the boredom that causes chewing or digging.  By focusing your dog’s energy on exercise, he will be less likely to chew or dig.  Exercising also strengthens your dog’s confidence if he is shy or anti-social, especially if you are walking or exercising him where there are other dogs and people.  By interacting with other dogs, he will become more outgoing and happy.

Remember that each dog is an individual and you will need to modify your program accordingly.  Make adjustments for age, breed, and current health issues, and be mindful of environmental conditions (extreme temperatures in summer or winter).

 Different Ways to Exercise Your Dog

Basic Walk

Keep distances short and manageable at first and add a little distance each week.  Use a front-clip halter on your dog and at least a six-foot leash. Don’t forget reflective gear for both you and your dog, and always carry poop bags for cleanup after your pet. Remember that this is his walk, so do let him stop to smell and explore when he wants. Vary your route often so that there will be new sights and smells for him to investigate and enjoy.

Follow the Dog

Try this twist for your daily walks. Instead of walking your dog, have your dog walk you. Wherever he goes (within reason), you go. Think of your dog as a four-legged, furry, walking GPS that isn’t letting you know where the final destination will be. You’ll be amazed where the nose will take the two of you

Fetch

A simple game of fetch can be all that is needed for your dog’s daily exercise fix. Fetch is easy to squeeze into busy schedules, as there is no need to travel far for a game of fetch. A close-by park or backyard works great and on rainy days, fetch can be an indoor sport, played from the comfort of your couch.

Fetch Races
Head to your backyard or a park and throw your pup’s favorite toy—only this time, race him to pick it up (a great way to get your blood pumping). Then wrestle the toy from his grasp, toss, and race him for it again.  You will both get great exercise this way!

On-Leash Running or Jogging

This is a great way to exercise a healthy dog and keep yourself fit, as well. The first essential step is to teach your dog to walk without pulling on his leash.  This creates a safe and enjoyable running or jogging companion. It is important to remember that sustained jogging or running is not recommended for young dogs whose bones haven’t finished growing. It can also be hard on large dogs’ joints and bones. If you have a young dog, check with his veterinarian to find out when it’s safe for him to start running, and if you have a large dog, ask his veterinarian if it’s safe for him to run with you.

Swimming

If your dog is a swimmer, this is an excellent way for him to get exercise. Water fetch is a classic “dog game” that most swimming pups enjoy.  Beware of fast moving currents, surf, or undertow, and use common sense in all aspects of ensuring his safety.  If your dog is not good at swimming but loves the water, do have a properly-sized life jacket for him to wear.  Amazon provides a good selection of life jackets for dogs.

Indoor – Stairs

A simple way to exercise indoors is to utilize your stairway. The steps engage different muscles than those used in a regular walk or run, and they add an extra level of difficulty with the change in elevation. Stand at the top of the stairs and throw a toy down to your dog. When your dog grabs the toy, call his name and have him bring the toy to you. After several rounds of this, he will be ready for a rest!

Indoors – Treadmill

A treadmill is a good way to give your dog indoor exercise. First, allow your dog to get comfortable with the sight and sound of a running treadmill. Next, place your dog on the still treadmill and give him a treat. Turn the treadmill on the lowest speed and give him treats to keep him on the treadmill. You may use the dog’s leash as an aid but never tie your dog to the treadmill. Also, standing in front of the treadmill and rewarding him with treats for walking might make your dog feel more comfortable. Once your dog is adjusted, you can gradually increase the speed to provide a more challenging workout.

You can train your dog to properly use a treadmill for indoor exercise. This is not the way it should be done! lol

Indoor – Trip to the Pet Store!

Take a road trip with your dog to the pet store and walk him through the aisles. Let him smell and try out the different dog toys and meet the other dogs visiting the store.  This will be a pleasant adventure for him while getting some exercise in the process.

Don’t make the mistake of assuming that if a dog has access to a yard, he’s getting exercise.  Exercising your dog gets both of you out and about while helping to grow the bond you have with your dog.

It’s the interaction with you that counts!