Powerful Dog Training Aid: Aerobic Exercise Has Added Benefits

What's the first thing that comes to mind when you hear "dog training aid"? Most likely, you envision something physical like a leash or certain kind of collar or other device. We don't think of aerobic exercises in this context, but it is equally as important if not more so than any training aid.

The most powerful dog training aid is aerobic exercise. Without exercise, a dog will have far too much energy to be able to concentrate on what you are trying to teach them. Dogs are similar to children in this respect. When they are wound up, all they want to do is move around. They do not want to sit in class and focus on the lessons.

Strenuous exercise benefits your dog in a variety of areas and prepares him for the serious work that lies ahead. Apart from wearing him out, exercise helps to keep him fit in mind and body.

Physical exercise that leaves him exhausted improves his circulation, strengthens his heart and builds muscle. Running free is a natural way for him to do this, but if you do not have a safe place for him to do that, try using a treadmill. He'll love it once he gets the hang of it.

Dogs with behavioral problems gain a tremendous benefit from physical exercise. You can test this yourself. Give your dog enough physical exercise that he tires himself out, and then put him through a few training lessons. You will notice that he is a far more willing participant and quicker to grasp the commands after exercising regularly.

Chances are he will be more subdued on Saturday and showing signs of misbehaving by Monday evening. This will tell you that it is a good idea to make sure your dog gets quality exercise every day.

Plan your exercise based on the type of dog you have. Hunting breeds need a lot of exercise, but small dogs (often known as lap dogs) need much less exercise. Large or "giant" breeds, surprisingly, do not need as much exercise as sporting dogs. As you can see, breed type should be considered. Also, it depends on your particular dog's personality. Some are more energetic than others.

Apart from releasing energy, exercise contributes to your dog's overall health while providing psychological benefits, such as keeping him calm and relaxed. This occurs because exercise increases the production of endorphins and serotonin in the dog's brain, much as it does in humans. If these our out of whack, your dog can get depressed. Fortunately, exercise is the ideal cure.

If your dog is melancholy and inactive, a good dose of aerobic exercise might be just the cure he needs. He will be calmer and in a better frame of mind for his training exercises. Apart from that, strenuous physical exercise that pumps blood through his system helps to guard against damage to brain cells, thereby maintaining your dog's thinking, memory and attention as he ages.

As long as your dog remains anxiety free and in top physical shape from the quantity and amount of exercise he gets, he will be easier to train and far more content.

Make use of this excellent and powerful dog training aid so that your best friend is healthy and fit from his head to his feet.