Keeping Your Dog Active Through Exercise

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     There are well over 300 breeds of dogs, and they vary in all sizes, categories, temperaments, and exercise requirements. For all breeds, there should be some form of activity, whether it be walking, fetching for toys, playing in the yard, or swimming in the pool supervised. Considerations should be taken to see if there is any heat or cold sensitivities with your particular breed, and any health considerations such as diabetes, kidney problems or obesity. In fact, to take it a step further, it's a good rule of thumb to take them to the veterinarian and have them recommend an activity/exercise plan for your canine.

Smaller, indoor dogs, usually considered to be "lap dogs" don't require the active routines as that of working dogs. Usually small breed dogs are more sensitive to heat and cold and walking them in either of these two extremes should be avoided for the most part. There is an increased chance of them getting heat exhaustion or hypothermia. Mild weather between 60 - 80 degrees is perfect for these dogs, especially if they have long or thick hair. Usually only 5-10 minutes per day or every other day is all that's needed to keep them at their most vital.

For dogs that are bred for hunting, sporting activities, police force, or accompanying a person on hikes or camping excursions, these dogs thrive on high levels of brisk activity, and are best suited to be owned by people who lead athletic lives outdoors. A lack of exercising these dogs can lead to medical problems, such as depression, anxiety, destructive behavior, and weight gain. However, if a person will merely incorporate them into their regular morning run or jogs, that's often all it takes to maintain their required activity level. Your pooch will feel "honored" in their own unique way when you have them accompany you on your workout regime. This precious time will bond you two closer together as well.

No matter what exercise you choose for your pet, above all make sure that's it an activity that you will both enjoy. An active dog is a healthy dog, and one that will stay on this earth for a longer period of time. It will also help ward off disease, behavioral problems, and obesity. When you keep your dog active, you're also doing yourself a favor as well, in that you are doing something positive for you health and spirit as well. So take that first step, and do something good your pet and yourself to benefit both of you and make sure that both pet and owner are happier, healthier and vital.

With the above being said, there are all kinds of breeds between the lap dogs and the athletic sporting/working ones. If you're unsure or have a mixed breed dog, try for 15 minutes of walking 3 times a week. Pay attention to how your pet responds. If they still seem restless, then it's time to bump up their activity level, whereas if they get fatigued during that time, then it should be cut down a bit and build up their level of exercise stamina.