Most of us try to be conscious of our own health and well-being, but do you ever consider your dog's? If you've been wondering how much exercise should my dog get, you've come to the right place!
Raising a dog means committing to giving him the best life possible. It includes making sure your pet stays fit, and you prioritize his health.
We all want to keep our dogs as healthy as possible. The healthier your pet, the longer he will live.
Exercising with your dog isn't just about physical activity. You are also investing time in bonding with your pet. One of the best ways to strengthen and improve the dog-owner bond is to exercise with your pup.
How Much Exercise Should My Dog Get?
All dogs need exercise, but they don’t all require the same amount and types of exercise. A general rule is that most dogs need between 30 minutes and 2 hours of exercise per day.
Of course, some dogs will need more than 2 hours per day to expend all of their excess energy and stay in shape.
Senior dogs, dogs with certain health issues, small breeds and pets with hip and joint problems may need a mild walk or easy swim. Young pups and active breeds will require more rigorous exercise to burn all of their energy, such as jogging or running, obstacle courses or some fun tugging and fetching in the backyard.
Dogs don’t exercise themselves. If your dog is board, he won’t get up and take himself for a walk around the house. He’ll look for something to get into or chew, and it’s probably going to result in trouble.
It’s important for you to take time to exercise with your pet. It will be good for both of you!
Start by exercising your pet for 30 minutes. If he still seems to have extra energy at the end of the day, you know you’ll need to increase his exercise time. Likewise, if your dog seems too tired to exercise, don’t force him.
Aside from a high level of pent-up energy, there are some other signs to watch for that may indicate your dog is not getting enough exercise:
- weight gain
- stiffness in the joints
- unnecessary barking or whining
- getting into things or destroying your belongings
- seemingly withdrawn or depressed
If you don't have time to give your dog the exercise he needs, consider hiring a dog walker or pet sitter. You could also offer your dog as a walking buddy for friends or relatives who live in your area.
Walking isn't the only way to get exercise with your pet. If you're looking for a more intense workout, hiking or agility training may be fun for you. You could also try swimming or yoga with your dog if you're looking for an alternative to daily walks.
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