Friday, May 30, 2014

Exercise & Dogs: Walking, Running, Agility & More

By Cheng Bernhardt


No matter what breed, size or age of dog you have, providing regular exercise usually is an excellent idea. While most dogs benefit from some daily exercise, it's a good idea to discuss exercise needs with your dog's veterinarian. This professional can give your dog a thorough onceover and provide you with some helpful exercise advice, which might include one or more of the following activities.

Of course, just as people prefer a variety of activities, so do our dogs, and different breeds are built to be able handle different levels of exercise. Some dogs and breeds simply have more stamina than others. In addition, older dogs or dogs with health problems might need to take things a bit easier, perhaps an easy walk in the morning and evening. You can also make the walk more interesting for both of you by driving to a different neighborhood park or nature area once in awhile. If the weather is not conducive to outdoor exercise, there are doggie treadmills that can be helpful even for dogs with arthritis. Physical exercise actually can alleviate the discomfort of arthritis, and doctors often recommend that pets have daily walks.

For a dog with more stamina and energy, running can be a fun activity that the two of you can do together. You can even bike alongside your dog if he or she can keep up with the pace and is well-trained. Some dogs, such as those with short legs, probably shouldn't be running but they might have the stamina for a good long walk. Just talk to your vet and look for clues from your dog as to whether he or she has had enough exercise.

Walking or jogging are good for you and your pet, but adding a few other types of activities also is wise. Dog play is something they will enjoy and it will increase the bond between you and your pet, as well as the bond between your pet and other members of the family. Grab a tug toy or play fetch and your dog will expend some energy. Hide a toy and have them search for it or purchase a hide-a-treat toy and watch as your dog concentrates and works to retrieve the toy.

Dog agility is an excellent source of exercise to consider, as well. Even if you have a small dog, agility training can be a lot of fun and interesting. You simply purchase mini versions of agility equipment for the smaller pet. Many dogs love jumping over obstacles, dashing around weave poles and zooming through tunnels as well as just running around an agility course. You don't even have to train with competition in mind, this is simply a fun way to spend time with your special dog and provide some great exercise.

Not only will your dog have a great time and gain strength and coordination, learning agility skills improves their behavior. This is because of two factors. One, your dog will learn many typical behavior skills during training, such as sitting, staying, coming when you call him and more. In addition, dogs with regular and interesting exercise in general tend to be happier and less prone to excessive barking, chewing, scratching and other difficult behavior. If you need agility equipment, Carlson Agility offers a full selection including quality agility jumps, agility tunnels, pause tables, tire jumps, dog walks, a-frames, weaves and much more. All of their equipment also is available miniaturized for smaller dogs and puppies.




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