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Exercise and Play
Whether you have a Great Dane or a Yorkshire Terrier, dogs typically need 30-45 minutes of exercise a day whether it is a brisk walk, a jog, or chasing a ball.
Smaller breeds can exercise indoors, but outdoor space is essential with some larger breeds. In the coldest part of the winter, that can be a challenge.
Always have your dog's health evaluated by his veterinarian before starting a new and demanding activity with your dog. Once you get the go ahead - have fun!
Some ways to make exercise and play a part of your dog's life:
- Check with breeders and dog clubs for direction. Ask when the next obedience or agility classes will start and enter your dog just for the fun of it.
- Even if he is already trained, attending a refresher class will give him an opportunity to interact with other dogs and focus some of his energy into an appropriate behavior.
- In the winter, wrap up warm and go for a walk. Even a short walk is preferable to no walk. Find a place with a windbreak and dress appropriately.
- Treadmills are trendy for people and can be fun for dogs. You can teach your dog how to walk on the treadmill. Don't ever leave your dog unattended, don't allow the leash to dangle where it could tangle. Like you, build up his endurance slowly.
- Have your veterinarian instruct you how to detect possible warning signs, which may indicate your dog has exercised too much.
Do:
- Consider your dog's needs and present physical condition. Leisurely walks may be best for an older dog while a young adult dog will have ample energy for a vigorous exercise program. Puppies should not be stressing their growing bones, joints or muscles through excessive jumping or strenuous exercise. Be sensible about what you ask your dog to do. Hard games of fetch or catching a flying disc burn off a lot of steam but may also stress a dog's bones and joints.
- Go slow! If you have not exercised your dog regularly and decide to launch a regular exercise program, begin with short periods of activity at slow speeds and gradually increase the time, speed and distance.
- Begin walking or running your dog on soft surfaces such as dirt, sand or grass until his pads toughen. Keep your dog's nails trimmed so they won't tear as he runs.
- Keep your dog on a leash; it gives you control when walking or running.
- If you exercise at night, place a reflective collar on your dog, use a bright colored leash and wear white or light-colored clothing so the two of you can be seen.
- Check your dog's feet for the presence of burrs, grass, thorns, rocks or ice and snow, all of which should be removed immediately.
- Check carefully for ticks after exercising outdoors. Read more about ticks.
- Obey local laws about using a leash and always promptly clean up after your dog. Your police department or animal control department can tell you more about laws in your area.
Don't:
- Exercise your dog immediately before or after he has eaten; a full stomach may cause digestive upsets. Do provide only small amounts of water before and directly after exercise.
- Go out in the noonday sun. Running in the heat is dangerous for dogs. Just because a dog is willing to jog with you in 90-degree heat doesn't mean it is safe for him to do so.
- Raise a couch potato. Dogs can live long, healthy lives if kept lean and fit.
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