3 tips to help your dog be fit and trim

Besides the right diet, exercise is the second most important way to help your dog stay healthy. Dogs that are exercised correctly are able to burn through stored fat faster. Coupled with a healthy diet, the dog can ultimately lose weight as well as gain health through exercise.

As a dog owner, make it your responsibility to get the fittest dog by being proactive in their exercising! Here’s 3 tips to get you and your dog started.

Tip #1 - Plan and Start Exercising With Your Dog

When it comes to exercise, most owners need more motivation to get themselves outside for a workout than do their dogs. It doesn’t take a lot of imagination to get a dog exercising – get the leash and head out for a walk! Plan to spend at least an hour total every day walking, then gradually increase the speed until your dog is speed-walking or jogging. Yes, it’s time consuming. Yes, you’re busy. If you have kids, drag them away from the TV and go for a family walk after dinner. If you work out yourself, figure out a way to incorporate the dog’s walk into your own routine. With the right amount of caution, you can even have your dog tow you on your bike, skateboard, rollerblades, or skis.

On the weekends, head to the park and play with a tennis ball, Frisbee, or other dogs. A nice side benefit of exercise is that it wins you some quiet time while your dog naps the day away in contentment. Quit making excuses! Think of it this way: would you rather see your dog running, tongue out, tail wagging for the next ten years, or would you rather he simply laid around the house for five? How many people get to have a to-do list that includes “Play with dog?”

Tip #2 - The Right Amount of Exercise Is Essential

How much exercise does your dog need to lose weight? This is a number that is going to change for each dog and the current condition of your dog needs to be taken into consideration.

An overweight dog may only be able to go on a short walk before becoming too tired. Take into consideration how overweight they are when you define the amount of exercise that they need.

Next, determine how you can increase their daily exercise level. Going for a walk every day is a great treat for a dog and gives them the ability to lose weight.

Tip #3 - Dog Activities for Exercise

There are many activities that dogs can do to increase their level of play that you can encourage them to use. This starts with providing them with the best possible activities for their interests. Remember, a dog that is interested in the activity is more likely to be active.

Here are some options:

1. Fetch is a great game for any dog. Teach them!

2. Long walks around the park or the neighborhood.

3. Go swimming with the dog if they like water.

4. Jog with them.

5. Push the stroller with the dog.

6. Play chase.

7. FlyBall - a high-energy, fast-paced relay, foot race, and game of fetch all in one

8. Skijoring - stay fit in the chill of winter by skiing with your dog

9. Agility training - you’ve seen it on Animal Planet – obstacle courses at full speed

10. Swimming: great low-impact workout for dogs with hip or joint problems

The old saying that you can not teach an old dog a new trick is not accurate. Dogs of all ages can be trained to do various activities. You can do this with your dog and see his exercise level increase.

The bad news is you’ve ran out of excuses not to exercise your dog. The good news is by exercising with your dog, the bond with your dog will be stronger and your dog will be healthier and happier. So get your dog off the couch and start this amazing race to a healthier lifestyle for your and your dog!

published 3 years ago

Chris.Taylor

5 points