Exercise: Why it’s important for your pup

Dogs are incredible creatures. They’re unconditionally loving, loyal, and can be a catalyst for fresh air and exercise. Yet when life gets busy and schedules become hectic, it’s all to easy to put canine exercise on the back burner. Long walks in the morning may be trimmed to a quick potty break in the front yard, and leisurely evening strolls may be nixed due to stress and fatigue. However, even when time becomes limited it’s vital to make time for exercise – for both you and your pet!

Dogs are generally ecstatic to go outside. If you’re fortunate enough to live in a rural area with open space for your dog to explore, it may not be as challenging to ensure your pup gets plenty of exercise. Yet for people who live in urban areas or can’t let their dogs off leash, it can be challenging to get your pet enough exercise. Keep reading to understand why it’s a priority and how to make it happen!

Hard Facts on Canine Exercise

The amount of exercise your pet needs depends on their breed, size, and overall health. In general all dogs should have a minimum of 60 minutes of exercise a day, and more for larger pets. Outdoor activity reduces common behavioral habits such as digging, chewing, excessive barking, and hyperactivity, and can help with various digestive problems including constipation. Exercise is also more than physically beneficial, it’s mentally beneficial as well. It’s a great tool for confidence building and can reduce anxiety.

Why It’s Important

Dogs who don’t have enough exercise become overweight which leads to a variety of health issues. Roughly 50% of dogs seen by veterinarians are overweight, and it’s largely the result of a lack of exercise and over feeding. Overweight dogs are prone to a variety of health problems, including diabetes, heart disease, respiratory disease, and liver problems. Obesity also affects joints, ligaments, and tendons, which can create a vicious cycle as your dog won’t want to exercise.

How To Make It Happen

Even though pet owners have busy lives and hectic schedules, there’s always time for your biggest fan – your dog. Try scheduling walks into your calendar so it becomes a part of your day and a priority. If you anticipate a busy week then plan ahead! Contact a dog walker or possibly enlist a family member or neighbor to help care for your pet and take them on walks.

Another tip for ensuring your dog gets enough exercise is to think outside of the box. Try rollerskating with your pet, or create a backyard obstacle course to keep them engaged and busy. If you’re dog is social, take them to dog park! It’s great for everyone and surefire way to keep them moving. Take a tennis ball or frisbee for added fun and enjoy a healthy, happy pet!

For information on training and to arrange a free consultation for your dog visit www.itsadogsworld.biz.