The Importance Exercising your Dog
The Importance Exercising your Dog
At Carmel Dog Walkers we think that exercise is the most important ingredient you can give to your dog, they cannot live without it and will be much happier and more balanced. No matter the age, breed, or size, every dog needs regular exercise. Proven over time, a tired dog is better behaved, calm, focused, and understanding. Regular exercise doesn’t just benefit them, it can benefit you too.
Exercising keeps your dog healthy and limber, while reducing behavioral problems such as excessive licking, barking, chewing, digging, and other anxiety related behaviors. It also helps your dog build trust and confidence in you and in their environment.
WHY MY DOG?
If you don’t know how much exercise your dog needs, we’ve got you covered. Obesity is one of the most common health concerns for dogs. Your first step should be taking your dog to the vet and find an ideal weight goal, as well as a current weight. This information will allow you to make the proper adjustments for your dog, whether it’s a food portion change, a treat type change, or just another few minutes on the walk. Some problems can be fixed quickly with proper dieting and portion control. If you’re not a table feeder, then you’re already on the right track!
WHAT KIND OF EXERCISE?
On-leash and off-leash walking can determine different types of exercise. On-leash allows you to structure the walk and keeps you in control of any situation. Off-leash allows your dog to go at their own pace, usually provides a longer, more exciting walk and allows them to explore their surroundings. Swimming is also a great way to burn off additional energy. Just be careful of unknown current, or water traffic.
Dog sports and group activities can also burn excess energy and really give your dog a proper work out. This allows them to build social skills, while also trying to develop common training practices like catching, running back and forth, and staying within an enclosed area. Similar to smarter toys, this kind of workout exercises their brain much more than their muscles, and keeps them focused on a task. Try to prepare your dog for brain activities by giving them ample rest before and after, as well as keeping them hydrated.
At Carmel Dog Walkers we believe that all dogs should have at least 2 ½ to 3 hours of exercise a day. We have seen miracles happen to dogs that have received 2 to 3 hours of exercise. Dogs not receiving enough tend to be more nervous, agitated, angry and not balance, not happy. With our programs like Doggie Day Camp and our Overnights all dogs receive 3 hours of exercise, we believe it so firmly and we see a huge difference in their personality, they are so much happier. Please give us a call so we can design a program for your beloved canine.
