Dog Exercise 101

Just like humans, dogs need daily exercise, and like us, they benefit best from the right kind of exercise, under the right conditions. It's not safe, for example, to go out in extremely hot or cold weather. During those periods, it’s best to stay inside, but you can still exercise your dog if you get creative.  Remember that dogs need to exercise their minds as well as their bodies, so teaching tricks to engage your dog's mind can have additional benefits.  You can also throw toys, play tug-of-war, or run up and down the stairs together to get their aerobic exercise in, even when the weather outside isn’t right for outdoor play.

Where to get exercise

Like people, most dogs enjoy both familiarity and variety in their exercise routines.  Your dog will get to know the neighborhood during his daily walks, and he may enjoy revisiting his favorite spots.  But the best exercise routines use both mental and physical muscles. Exploring a new hiking trail, for example, or learning a new trick will engage your dog's mind as well as his body.

Your local dog park can be a great place for off-leash exercise and a place to play with other dogs. But if your dog doesn't like other dogs, the dog park is definitely not the place for him.  If he’s not comfortable at the dog park, don’t push him. 

But I can't do this!

Inactive dogs are often overweight dogs, that can cause a number of serious health risks. Obesity contributes to a dog's risk of diabetes, respiratory disease, and heart disease. It also leads to muscular-skeletal problems like hip dysplasia and arthritis. Obesity can place additional stress on joints, ligaments, and tendons. And older dogs often have a hard enough time getting up without the added problem of lifting excess pounds.

But many dog owners find they simply can’t give their dogs the exercise they need because their own health, or their lifestyle or their schedules don’t allow it.  If you can’t physically keep up with your dog’s exercise needs, or you don’t have the time in your busy schedule to do it, there are options.  These are the most common ones, but your veterinarian may be able to suggest others.

·    Enroll your dog in a doggie day care.  Day cares can provide him with the physical workout and the interactions with both people and other dogs that will leave him tired and content.

·    Hire a dog walker.  A good dog walker (or pet sitter) can provide exercise and mental stimulation that your dog needs, from the convenience of your own home.

Remember that a tired dog is a happy dog, and he’s relying on you  to keep him healthy and happy.  It’s your responsibility as a pet owner.  Take it seriously.

Be Wise... Bewaggle!

About Bewaggle:


Bewaggle is a pet services company located in DeLand, Florida. We offer pet sitting, dog walking, puppy training, basic obedience training, and more, in the convenience of the customer's home.  Every Bewaggle employee is bonded, insured, professionally trained and has undergone a background check.  Be wise... Bewaggle!