Dogs are like people. Some are couch potatoes, while others want to get out and be in the middle of all the action. There is no question that everyone needs exercise and regular activity to keep the body and mind healthy, but how much exercise does your dog need? Does size and breed matter? These are the questions that pet parents may find challenging to answer.
Dog exercise doesn’t have to be confusing or tedious. Learning more about your dog and its exercise needs can be a fun bonding experience for you and your pup. Pure Peak’s comprehensive guide to dog exercise will put you and your best friend on the path to better health and wellness.
How Much Exercise Does a Dog Need?
By now, we should all know that regular exercise is good for the body and the brain. A sedentary lifestyle increases your dogs’ chances of suffering significant medical and health concerns like obesity, arthritis, mobility problems, and cardiovascular issues. Some veterinarians and researchers suggest that a sedentary lifestyle may also increase a dog’s risk of developing certain cancers. Exercise is as essential to good health as water and a balanced diet. Yet, how do you know how much exercise your dog needs?
The question has no simple answer because numerous factors affect how much exercise a dog needs, including age, breed, size, and overall health. Some breeds of dogs are more active and need more exercise than others. Working and high-energy breeds like border collies need lots of exercise and activity. They crave it. Without adequate exercise and mental stimulation, these dogs can find unique and potentially destructive ways of harnessing their energy. High-energy dogs may need up to 90 minutes of exercise per day.
Small breeds like Pomeranians or chihuahuas are on the other end of the spectrum. These animals do not have the same needs or physical capacity to endure long exercise routines. Smaller dogs may only need an average of 30 minutes of exercise daily. Dogs with moderate exercise requirements fall somewhere in the middle of these extremes.
Your pup's age and health should also be considered when estimating how much exercise your four-legged friend needs. Older dogs do not need as much intense exercise as puppies. Too much exercise or strenuous activities can aggravate potential health concerns like joint problems, arthritis, and mobility issues in aging animals.
Best Exercises for Dogs
Just like their human family members, dogs have unique personalities. Some love to get out and play, while others are more content to snuggle on the couch. The best exercises for your dog are the ones that your dog enjoys. A long hike or game of flyball may be perfect for an active border collie but unappealing to a dachshund. Work with what your dog loves.
Games of fetch, flyball, and agility training are perfect for toy-driven dogs or animals with high energy levels. These dogs may also enjoy long walks, hikes, or accompanying you on a morning run. Slow or mild strolls through the neighborhood suit dogs with moderate activity needs.
If you have kids, hit two birds with one stone and encourage them to play outdoors together. You can also join in the fun and turn exercise time into a playful bonding experience with you and your dog or all your family members. Activities with family members can be mentally stimulating and encourage closer bonds. If you use play for exercise, carefully monitor your dog and children to prevent injuries. Use toys designed only for dogs, and always check toys before and after play. Remove loose parts and replace broken toys to prevent choking.
Puzzle toys or puzzle feeders are great for mild exercise and mental stimulation. These toys provide mental exercise for all dog breeds and can provide gentle physical activity for smaller or older dogs.
Swimming is another excellent exercise option for any dog, but it is especially good for obese and elderly animals because it is less stressful on the joints. However, never assume that your dog automatically knows how to swim. Dogs can drown the same way people can. Use dog-appropriate flotation devices and safety gear, or invest in doggy swim lessons.
Keeping Your Dog Safe During Exercise Sessions
Exercise keeps your dog happy and healthy. Exercise and a balanced diet can reduce your dog’s risk of developing obesity, cardiovascular problems, and mobility issues as they age. However, without proper supervision and the right tools, your dog can suffer devastating physical injuries during an intense exercise session.
Keeping your pup safe means investing time and energy in training. You can’t take your pet for a walk if your dog doesn't know how to behave on a leash. Dogs can choke themselves when not correctly leash trained. Without socialization, dogs can fight with other animals or bite children or strangers, even on a leash. Protect everyone, practice leash training with your dog, and get them used to the leash, collar, harness, and other tools of the trade. It will make your time out and about with your pet safer and much more fun for you both.
If you both will be enjoying the great outdoors, think about the season. Concrete, asphalt, and pavement absorb an enormous amount of heat. During the dog days of summer, these surfaces can be as hot as 120 to 140 degrees, causing significant burns and blisters to the pads of your dog’s feet. Avoid walking or hiking outside during the hottest parts of the day. Get your dog used to wearing protective “boots,” and bring plenty of water for you and your four-legged friend.
In winter months, buddle up and make sure your jacket, leash, and collar or harness have reflective material. It gets dark quickly, and you want to make yourself and your pet as visible as possible. Also consider protective footwear for your dog as cold temperatures may also present risks to your dog’s paws as much as heat in the summer.
Keep Your Dog Healthy and Active with Help from Pure Peak
At Pure Peak, our mission is to create clean, high-quality pet products to help transform your pet’s life. We want to elevate pet wellness through integrity and innovation, so your best friend will be by your side for the long haul. If you are looking for cutting-edge pet wellness products, you've come to the right place.
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