{"id":280,"date":"2016-04-11T06:00:01","date_gmt":"2016-04-11T06:00:01","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/happypetsinfo.com\/blog\/?p=280"},"modified":"2017-04-01T18:57:49","modified_gmt":"2017-04-01T18:57:49","slug":"exercising-your-dog","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/happypetsinfo.com\/blog\/exercising-your-dog\/","title":{"rendered":"Exercising Your Dog"},"content":{"rendered":"

The Importance of Giving Your Dog Exercise<\/h1>\n
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Double fetch!<\/p><\/div>\n

It is very important that your dog gets regular exercise, and there are many health benefits in making sure that he gets enough.\u00a0 Obviously, the main benefits are that he will be healthier and keep a good weight when he is active.\u00a0 In the long run, he will live longer.\u00a0 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.<\/p>\n

Exercising your dog<\/em> can also eliminate unwanted behavior by reducing the boredom that causes chewing or digging.\u00a0 By focusing your dog\u2019s energy on exercise, he will be less likely to chew or dig.\u00a0 Exercising also strengthens your dog\u2019s confidence if he is shy or anti-social, especially if you are walking or exercising him where there are other dogs and people.\u00a0 By interacting with other dogs, he will become more outgoing and happy.<\/p>\n

Remember that each dog is an individual and you will need to modify your program accordingly.\u00a0 Make adjustments for age, breed, and current health issues, and be mindful of environmental conditions (extreme temperatures in summer or winter).<\/p>\n

\u00a0Different Ways to Exercise Your Dog<\/strong><\/h5>\n

Basic Walk<\/span><\/p>\n

Keep distances short and manageable at first and add a little distance each week. \u00a0Use 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<\/span> 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.<\/p>\n

Follow the Dog<\/span><\/p>\n

Try this twist for your daily walks<\/em>. Instead of walking your dog<\/em>, 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<\/p>\n

Fetch<\/span><\/p>\n

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.<\/p>\n

Fetch Races<\/span>
\nHead to your backyard or a park and throw your pup’s favorite toy\u2014only 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. \u00a0You will both get great exercise this way!<\/p>\n

On-Leash Running or Jogging<\/span><\/p>\n

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. \u00a0This creates a safe and enjoyable running or jogging companion. It is important to remember that\u00a0sustained jogging or running is not recommended for young dogs whose bones haven\u2019t finished growing. It can also be hard on large dogs\u2019 joints and bones. If you have a young dog, check with his veterinarian to find out when it\u2019s safe for him to start running, and if you have a large dog, ask his veterinarian if it\u2019s safe for him to run with you.<\/p>\n

Swimming<\/span><\/p>\n

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. \u00a0Beware of fast moving currents, surf, or undertow, and use common sense in all aspects of ensuring his safety. \u00a0If your dog is not good at swimming but loves the water, do have a properly-sized life jacket for him to wear. \u00a0Amazon provides\u00a0a good selection of life jackets for dogs.
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