Dog Exercises
There’s a bonus to all the care and attention that you give your dog. He returns the favor by requiring exercise, which is something he needs to keep him from getting bored and to keep him in shape. However, it is also something that will do nothing but improve your own health and state of mind. You don’t have to become a tri-athlete to give your dog the exercise he needs. Just walking at an invigorating pace is good for both you and your pet.
A dog’s energy level isn’t ignored as easily as ours is. It will be used up in some way, and if you would prefer your dog to use it by excavating a hole through the wall-to-wall carpeting or taking down the drapery, the choice is yours. Most owners would prefer to have their dogs use up their energy by taking a good brisk walk, playing catch, or bringing back a Frisbee.
Puppies usually get all of the exercise they need on their own, especially if they have playmate. However, there are very few adult dogs that get the exercise they need without opportunity and encouragement. As maturity and old age set in, you’ll find dogs become less inclined to be self starters when it comes to exercise. But interestingly, the laziest dog in town is more than willing to forego his afternoon snooze if his owner extends an invitation to go somewhere-anywhere!
Whenever you start on a new form of exercise with your dog, do so gradually and increase the duration of the workout very slowly. Do not start jogging with a young dog – wait at least until the dog is 18 months of age. By then, the dog’s permanent bones and muscles have formed and strengthened to the point where there will be no permanent damage.
Be careful about exercising in hot weather. confine exercise periods to the early morning hours before temperatures rise or until temperatures drop in the evening.
If you own a senior dog, it doesn’t mean he should stop exercising. The older fellow will still enjoy making those walks with you every day. Maybe he won’t be thrilled about heading outdoors on cold or blustery days, but a sweater or doggie coat will protect him. When the weather is nice, there is absolutely no reason why the two of you can’t be out taking a leisurely walk around the block or down to the park. Use discretion when throwing balls and playing fetch, even though the dog might think he is still capable of doing the 100 yard dash. Be kind and be careful when it comes to exercising your senior dog, and he’ll be with you for a much longer time.
Also, eating properly and maintaining a sensible exercise program will keep the whole family (both human and canine) happier and healthier.
Related posts:
