According to studies, canines have been in domestic contact with people for 30,000 years, which might show that they have adjusted to our communication behaviors and way of life. Even though dogs can communicate their needs through body language and simple gestures, pet owners sometimes overlook their four-legged buddy’s need to exercise.
If you’re a pet parent who’s not physically fit, needs to lose weight, or is too lazy to exercise but wants to get in shape, your dog is an ultimate fitness tool and companion. So let’s look at the best exercises you can do with your dog to be physically healthy and fit.
Exercises You Can Do With Your Dog
The benefits of exercise are well-established and can be tremendous for us and our pets. Thankfully, canines always support whatever adventure we organize, and they make good workout friends. So if you’re searching for ways to be physically fit with your furry baby, we have detailed the five best exercises to get you started.
1. Walk, jog, and run
Train your canine for a walk or hike, and do it for around 15-20 minutes, then slowly increase the time for up to 30 minutes when they get the hang of it daily. When they get comfortable with walking, try jogging or running with them. If your dog doesn’t have physical activities to do for the day and they’re already used to working out, you can walk with them for 45-60 minutes daily.
Also, remember to make short stops when walking or jogging, and always check your pet to see if they’re moving fine. If you notice signs of fractures or damaged bones, stop the activity immediately and consider taking them to animal centers that offer laser therapy for dogs. The said treatment can help pets recuperate swiftly and reduce pain associated with joint problems.
2. Bubble blowing
Bubble blowing is an exciting and simple exercise for dogs that like to chase. Get a kids’ bubble solution and blow some bubbles for your pet dog to attack. You might also buy bubble solutions for canines. There are tasty flavors like peanut butter or chicken that can make the game more entertaining and one your dog will like.
Not sure about how much exercise your dog needs every day? You may inquire about it when you take your dog for a regular vet checkup in facilities like West Gate Veterinary Hospital.
3. Swimming
Aerobic exercises such as swimming are great for dogs. According to professionals, five minutes of swimming for dogs equals five miles of walking. So if you have a water dog breed, add swimming to your regular workouts with them to enhance their heart health.
However, always observe moderation if your canine has cancer. If they overexert while exercising and show signs of breathing difficulties, take them to the veterinary oncologist immediately to be examined. You may browse their oncology page to read more about how they handle pets with cancer.
4. Fetch
Playing fetch with your furry buddy can be enjoyable, particularly on a spacious lawn or house. This game can also help pets release pent-up energy and keep them active and engaged.
5. Visit a dog park
If your canine is socially active around its fellows, it’ll love visiting a dog park. Physical fitness is just as necessary as socializing, so your dog must learn how to cope and interact with their fellows. But if you’re experiencing problems with your pet socializing with other dogs despite training them, seek advice from an animal behaviorist to correct this mindset.
