Top reasons to exercise your dog!

 

Dogs are supposed to be active. Hunting, herding, protecting–each breed is ingrained with a specific purpose, none of which includes lying on a doggie bed and waiting for you to come home from work. You owe it to your furry friend to help them reach their innate potential! Regular exercise helps to keep dogs agile and limber, reduce tummy troubles, improve sleep quality and build confidence.

How important is exercising my dog?

Just like humans, your dog needs to get enough exercise to keep healthy and maintain an appropriate weight. You can generally know when your dog is lacking exercise when he or she becomes bored, lethargic, or frustrated. This can manifest itself as destructive behavior or aggression.
Taking your dog for regular exercise can do wonders for its mental health. It can decrease their anxiety as they will be getting regular socialization with other dogs. Plus, just like us humans, dogs receive endorphins after exercise, allowing them to feel a natural high and be happy. Finally, if your dog is less anxious, it is less likely to engage in self-destructive behaviors such as chewing your furniture and crying.

How Much Exercise Does My Dog Need?

If you’re taking your dog on daily walks, that is great! You’re off to a great start. But most dogs benefit from daily aerobic exercise as well as a 30-minute walk. Think of aerobic exercise as anything that makes your dog pant. This could be running, swimming, jumping, or dancing (yes, dancing!), to name a few.

(Do consult your vet for senior dogs and puppies before starting them on an exercise regime)

Apart from your dog’s physical health his mind also needs a workout. Try playing simple games like a tug-of-war with a toy or a piece of cloth, hide-and-seek, find the hidden toy, or the never ending fetch the ball with them!

And finally, walking with your dog, also helps start a long chain of positive effects for your own mental health. The physical activity releases endorphins that energize you leading to positive feelings. It reduces stress, boosts your mood, and increases overall mental energy!