Lots of
exercise is essential for happy and healthy dogs. Spending time outdoors with your dog is not only a necessity, it can be lots of fun for the whole family. If you’re getting bored with the typical walk around the neighborhood, consider a few of these tips to get creative with fitness for your canine.
Enroll in an Agility Class
Consider enrolling your canine in a class that challenges his agility and coordination. The running, jumping and high-energy aspect of an agility class is a great way for dogs to burn off extra energy while developing new skills. You will go home with one pooped-out pup.
Schedule a Play Date
Dogs naturally want to play with other dogs. Call up a friend who has a dog and schedule some canine play time. Of course, you’ll will want to first make sure that the dogs get along with each other before leaving them to their own devices.
Game Time
Hide toys or treats around your yard and encourage your dog to find them. Dogs love playing fetch, and most will chase after a ball or stick for hours.
Go for a Run
If you’re a runner, take your dog with you. It will help to increase stamina and strengthen muscles. Just remember that your dog may need to slow down and sniff the roses every now and then. You can also switch it up by doing short intervals of running, jogging and walking.
Take a Trip to the Store
Many pet supply stores allow leashed dogs. This is a fun way for your dog to socialize while getting exercise. Your dog will enjoy walking up and down the aisles and sniffing the scent of new toys and accessories.
Get Out on the Water
Swimming is great exercise for you and your dog, and most dogs naturally love the water. If you live near the water or have a boat, take your dog for a swim. He would also be happy to just run along the shore and splash in the water. There are several doggie life vests on the market that will provide extra peace of mind while in the water.
Indoor Fun
Whether rain, mud or extreme heat or cold, there will inevitably be times when you can’t stay outside for very long. You can still provide fun and exercise for your furry friend by using the features of your home. Stand at the top of the stairs and toss a toy or tennis ball down for your dog to bring back to you. You will probably get tired long before your dog does. By going up and down stairs, your dog will be using different leg muscles than running on flat surfaces. Other indoor fitness ideas include hiding treats for your dog to find and setting up an obstacle course with chairs and cushions. Some dogs may even enjoy a treadmill, but remember to start out very slowly.
Try out a few of these creative fitness ideas with your dog the next time you get into a fitness routine rut. Your dog will love the extra attention and quality time, and you will both get more exercise without even realizing it.
