Making Sure Your Dog Gets Exercise

The majority of dogs are energetic by nature, and need exercise in order to be happy and healthy. When a dog does not receive the exercise it needs, it can result in obesity, depression, and destructive behavior, among other things.

Fortunately, it doesn't take much to fulfill your pet's daily exercise needs. The following are some suggestions on ways you can make sure your dog gets the exercise he needs to be happy and healthy:

• Talk your dog on a walk or run. Walking or running your dog is a way for your dog to release excess energy he has built up throughout the day. Although long walks or runs are better, even a short walk can be helpful. And even if it's cold outside (unless there is snow or ice on the ground) try to brave the weather for the sake of your dog. He needs it!
• Let your dog play! Take him to the dog park or set him free in the back yard. As long as your dog has room to run around (typically in a large enclosed area) he will be able to let out built-up energy.
• Sign up for training classes. Even though these classes are usually just once a week, it's still one night a week where your dog gets to leave the house, go somewhere new, and interactive with you--his favorite person. Plus these classes normally assign practice homework that you can do with your dog at home, another way for your dog to burn energy and get exercise.
• Consider doggy day camp. It may sound silly, but you can send your dogs to day camp like you can send your kids to summer camp. At doggy day camp, your dog will be able to exercise and interact with other dogs in a safe, supervised environment. Even just sending your dog to camp one or two days a week will be extremely helpful in not only ensuring your dog gets the exercise he needs, but also for improving his social skills and reducing bad behavior.
• Hire a dog walker. There are people you can hire to come to your home and walk your dog one or two times a day. Certain dog walkers offer a standard amount of time they will walk your dog, like for 30 minutes for example, whereas other walkers are more willing to customize a schedule for you.
• Hire a dog sitter. Like a babysitter, you can hire a professional dog sitter to look after your dog during the day and make sure he gets walked or taken to the dog park.

If you are someone who is gone for multiple hours a day for work, school, or other reasons, it's important to make sure your dog's exercise needs are not neglected.

Your veterinarian may be able to provide you with more tips on the best ways to exercise your dog. If you do not have a vet already, you can click here to search our directory of veterinarians nationwide.