Exercise is Your Friend!

I think the biggest challenge most dog families encounter is providing their dog with enough exercise! It is crucial that dogs get the exercise they need every day to avoid negative behaviors. An energetic, bored dog is a mischievous dog, especially for puppies.

The majority of dogs require a minimum of 30 minutes a day of exercise. If you have a herding, working or sporting breed, prepare to increase that to 2-3 hours per day of high energy exercise (not just walking). Most terriers also require the 2-3 hours per day. This is why it is so important to study up on the breed you want before adding them to the family. If your family cannot meet the exercise requirements of your dog, you will have problems. If you cannot exercise a dog 2-3 hours a day, there are several breed choices that love to be couch potatoes.

I often hear “well, he/she is outside in the backyard most of the day”. That does NOT mean your dog is exercising back there. The only way a high energy dog is going to get the exercise they need is if YOU exercise them or pay someone else to do it. Doggie daycares are a great way to make sure your dog is getting the exercise they need each day.

If there is a day that you are not able to give your dog the exercise they need and deserve, then at least stimulate their minds. Rainy day? No problem. Play mind-engaging games such as hide and seek or stuff-a-box to keep your dog from getting bored. Kongs stuffed with yummy goodies and froze also help keep your dog busy when they can’t be outside. Training sessions are also a great way to utilize their brains and bond with you when exercise isn’t an option.

If you need some ideas on how to fit exercise into your dog’s day, or want more ideas on rainy day games, contact us today!