The Importance of Exercising your Dog

A healthy body results in a healthy mind, this is true of almost all animal species, and just as you benefit from regular exercise, so will your pup. Exercise is beneficial for all dogs, young or old; you just need to adjust the amount of exercise to suit your dog's age and fitness level. Exercise not only benefits all dogs on a physical level, but it will help him on a mental level too.

A dog that doesn't get enough exercise will not only run the risk of developing health issues such as obesity, heart disease and arthritis, he will also develop various behavioral issues. Lack of exercise results in boredom and frustration, the dog may try to deal with these feelings by developing destructive patterns of behavior such as aggression and destructive behaviors such as excessive barking, digging and escaping.

A dog that isn't allowed to work off excess energy and tension through exercise may develop aggressive tendencies. Boredom will lead the your dog to try to entertain himself with stress relieving behavior such as chewing.

To ensure that your dog lives a healthy and happy life, you should exercise him regularly. Having a backyard can be helpful though you should ideally take your dog out for daily walks. Walking your dog daily will not only benefit him, it will be very good for you too!

Most dogs enjoy the great outdoors and are master explorers; it is in their genes after all. Try to walk two to three times a day, start slowly until you both build your fitness levels. Walking will allow your dog to become more socialized and accepting of new situations and environments which helps build his self confidence.

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More active people (and dogs) can jog together and some people even train their dogs to jog next to them while they're cycling. You should only attempt to do this if your dog is physically fit enough to handle vigorous exercise. Swimming is another activity you can do with your dog; most dogs love to swim once they've tried it a few times. Dogs are natural swimmers and it shouldn't take long for your dog to enjoy regular swims with you. If you are at all worried or concerned about your dog's safety while swimming there are special life jackets for him to wear when swimming that you can purchase.

No self respecting dog will turn down a game of fetch, and this is another great way to exercise your dog. Most dogs enjoy chasing a ball, Frisbee or stick and your dog will love the opportunity to play with you. Tug of war is another activity dogs enjoy playing with each other and with humans as well. You can use an old towel, rope or chew toy to play tug of war with your dog.

The key to an effective exercise program is regularity; try to maintain a regular exercise schedule for your dog. Giving your dog regular exercise is one of the best things you can do for him and will help him live a healthier and happier life. Remember to make sure you consider your dog's fur coat and the hot sun too. Your vet will be able to give you the best advice on how much exercise and temperature changes your dog can handle according to his age, breed and level of health.