How much exercise does a dog need daily? If your dog could talk, he would tell you that walking around the block or playing in the garden to fetch a ball is not enough for him; in fact, maybe he would say to you that it is too monotonous and repetitive.
Hundreds of years of breed-specific genetics run through each dog’s veins, and it is best to cater to their genetics for optimal mental and physical health.
For example, dogs bred to herd, pull sledges, or hunt will need more exercise because, historically, their days were filled with activity, and their bodies were made to move more often. On the other hand, some toy breeds, such as the Shih Tzu and Pekingese, prefer cuddle time to leash time: these breeds were bred to be lapdogs for royalty.
- Dog exercise. It must move!
- Dog exercise always keeps an eye on his behaviour.
- Dogs also need to exercise their brains, not just their bodies.
- Allow your dog to sniff everything.
- Beware of brachycephalic dogs.
- They are too young dogs to exercise.
- Dog exercise. I want my companion with me at all times
- Each dog breed has specific requirements for each exercise.
- Dog exercise. Short dogs are prone to back injuries
- You may notice behavioural problems in your dog.
- Here is how many minutes of exercise your dog needs
- Dog exercise. Always talk to your veterinary surgeon if you have any doubts.
Dog exercise. It must move!
A quick game of fetch while sitting on the sofa or letting your dog go out in the garden to do his business is not great exercise. And if your furry one does not get enough practice, you will notice it in the weight gain.
Like humans, the extra weight strains your dog’s heart and joints. Sore joints lead to reduced mobility and become a vicious circle. In addition, lack of exercise can lead to a ”homosexual” attitude towards toys and training and severe health conditions such as diabetes. So, does your dog need to lose a few kilos?
Dog exercise always keeps an eye on his behaviour.
Some dogs tire easily, while others have a ‘tireless’ attitude, so you should pay attention to signs of overexertion. “You must monitor your pet during walks and runs to ensure they are not having problems.”
If your furry seems completely exhausted, panting heavily, has an altered gait, or his tongue is floppy and hanging out, it’s time to dial back the act. And if he seems out of it after a walk or recreation, reduce the exercise for next time.
Dogs also need to exercise their brains, not just their bodies.
It is essential to provide mental exercise and physical activity for your puppy. “Dogs need mental training as much as physical exercise to keep them mentally fit. Toys and games are a fun way to do this.
“For example, playing hide-and-seek with treats helps your dog exercise cognitive skills such as memory. You can also divide your dog’s meal and hide it in different places to encourage your dog to look for it instead of just putting it in a dinner bowl’.
Allow your dog to sniff everything.
Without a doubt, walks are an accurate and proven way to exercise for your dog (and are great for you, too), but the usual walks are no reason to be proud. Instead, walks can serve a dual purpose when providing mental stimulation.
“Allow your dog to sniff the ground, bushes, trees, etc. and use the walk for training opportunities such as checking in, remembering and sitting in zebra crossings.” Remember, dogs sleep between 12 and 14 hours a day, and most spend the day relaxing, especially if left home alone during the day or in a cage.
Beware of brachycephalic dogs.
Dogs with short noses or brachycephalic breeds, such as English and French bulldogs, bull mastiffs, Boston terriers, Boxers, Pugs and Shih Tzu, can have difficulty breathing if they work too hard. “It is not advisable to take these dogs for a run, but rather, they should take regular, leisurely walks,” he says. “This ensures they get the exercise they need to maintain a healthy weight without affecting their breathing ability.”
Weight can increase rapidly in these breeds if they do not exercise, aggravating their breathing and significantly impacting their ability to exercise. In addition, brachycephalic dogs and intense heat are a dangerous combination.
They are too young dogs to exercise.
Puppies seem to have unlimited energy and play longer and faster than older dogs, but that does not mean they are ready for all kinds of exercise. “Do not take your dog for a run until your dog is at least one year old, and for giant breeds (such as a Great Dane).
“Before then, a puppy’s bones and joints are not fully developed and do not have the stamina to keep up with you.”
Dog exercise. I want my companion with me at all times
We know your dog is your best friend, and you like to include him in everything you do, but sometimes it’s not the safest idea. “Avoid rollerblading, cycling or skateboarding with your pet unless safety precautions are in place and your dog can’t handle intense exercise.”
“Most dogs cannot keep up with these activities, and there is a strong likelihood of injury to you and your dog.” So, when doing human sports, consider taking your furry one to daycare or leaving him home. “Dogs are social creatures, and so many love the dynamics of group play with other dogs.”
Each dog breed has specific requirements for each exercise.
The type of exercise your dog will enjoy is often determined by genetics, and even mixed breeds have a dominant characteristic of a specific breed. High-energy breeds such as Weimaraners, Vizslas and some terriers can be excellent running companions. “Just make sure they are on a leash, drink plenty of water, eat a high-quality diet and build up a long-range tolerance.”
If you have a herding dog, such as a border collie, they might enjoy an activity reminiscent of real-life herdings, such as agility training. Do you have a nosy dog like a beagle? He might prefer nose work or walks that allow him to investigate every little twig and leaf. And if you have a spunky Jack Russell terrier, he might go ga-ga for lure-chasing.
Dog exercise. Short dogs are prone to back injuries
If you have a shorter breed, such as a Dachshund or a Corgi prone to back injuries, avoid high-impact activities such as jumping and heavy running. Instead, stick to walking, fetching and chasing and offer toys with treats hidden inside.
You may notice behavioural problems in your dog.
“When a dog’s physical needs are not met, you may notice behavioural problems such as destructive tendencies or a decrease in response to training cues or commands,” Askeland says. However, most behavioural problems stem from a lack of exercise.
If a dog chews shoes, digs or barks excessively, it could be ‘boredom behaviour’ and a clear sign that your dog does not have a good outlet for his energy and could benefit from more exercise.
Here is how many minutes of exercise your dog needs
Like humans, a dog’s exercise needs vary depending on age, size and general health. “Generally, your dog should spend 30 minutes to two hours in any kind of physical activity, whether walking, chasing a toy or running around the yard or dog park.”
- Not sure where to take your dog? Read this article: England Has Fine Forests for You and Your Dog to Visit.
Interestingly enough, and also convenient, it doesn’t have to be all at once; it can be divided throughout the day to avoid tiring the dog and pet owners out.
Dog exercise. Always talk to your veterinary surgeon if you have any doubts.
Before trying any new activity, get the go-ahead from your vet first. “Your vet can recommend an exercise programme based on your dog’s specific needs, considering any health conditions.
It is also essential to increase your dog’s tolerance for activity; start with a light exercise routine and develop an appropriate fitness regime.” And if your dog is older, exercise is still essential for overall health but will be scaled back, especially if arthritis has set in.
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