How Much Exercise Does My Dog Need?

With today’s busy lifestyle, it is easy to forget that your dog needs exercise. The good news is that most dog owners are typically more active than non-owners, but you may still need to provide more than just a walk in the morning and evening for your four-legged companion. That is a great way to start, but it may take more for your dog to stay calm.

Signs Your Dog Needs More Exercise

If your dog exhibits the following behavior, more activity in their day may help them from being destructive:

• Destructive chewing.
• Barking too much.
• Overly active.
• Pulling on the leash during a walk.
• Not sleeping through the night.

How to Incorporate More Activity

Think about why you are not giving your dog the exercise he needs. If it is because you get tired keeping up with him, try playing games where you are not moving. Play fetch with a ball or Frisbee. If you have a large enough yard, get one of those ball throwers to help you pitch the ball farther. You can also focus on mental activities, like food puzzle games. Make your own jumping opportunities from boxes or a broom handle set across two chairs.

Adding another walk to his day, maybe a teenager or professional dog walker, could help you. If you are up to it, put on your roller blades when you walk your dog. You can move faster and make your dog run while not putting so much stress on your knees to keep up. Do not forget to vary your route to provide new experiences for your dog.

If your time is limited, consider social activities. An hour at the puppy park or a day in doggy day care does wonders. Maybe a neighbor dog can come over and play. Use the resources available to you to help your puppy get enough activity to be a well-behaved animal. Always watch your animal to make sure he is safe and not overexerted. A tired dog is a good dog!