People seem to overlook Dog‘s needs for exercise. I understand they’re little they don’t eat as much as humans and you think how much exercise can they possibly need? Dogs really do need exercise for multiple reasons.
First of all you need to think about what type of dog you have. Different types of dogs have different needs for exercise. It’s pretty simple. When getting a dog you should research the breed, figure out what your level of activity is. Assess your lifestyle your daily routine, and what you’re willing to do on a regular basis. Then factor all that together and try to find a dog with a similar activity level.
a small amount of Energy.
All dogs need exercise. No matter what breed, what age, or what their owner has going on. It’s a definite need. The question is how much how often what kind? All dogs are going to need some type of exercise. So, if that something you are not willing or capable to do you might think of getting a different kind of pet.for me I’m not interested in anything else besides dogs so that’s not an option. So we can discuss some options for people who for whatever reason are not able to exercise their dogs as often as they would like.
You can even bring your phone if you’d like although it would be nice if you would engage with your dog. Dog parks can be fun, you can meet dog friends for your dog and human friends for you. Usually they are in a fenced enclosure and I am fortunate enough to have a good dog park where, and sand in the big dog area which can be messy and I again discouraged my dogs from doing. They have benches. So it is a good place but I know not every area has this option. Some towns that are bigger have more than one dog park so you might have to find one that works best for you or possibly travel to another town if you have that option. I have saw people who come to my town just for the dog park.
I have also noticed a lot of senior citizens at the dog park who filled that they are not able to exercise their dogs as much as they need. The good thing about the dog park is they have long hour so depending on your schedule and availability you might be able to come multiple times during the day.
I have heard some dog parks charge a yearly fee and have structured rules, so every dog park is different so it’s best to check it out.
Another option for people who cannot exercise their dogs a lot, is public parks. Again definitely check into the rules and regulations of your area and the specific park. In my area all dogs are allowed at Og Parks as long as they’re on leash. The only park that does not require dogs be on leash is the dog park. I’ve even heard of some dog parks that are leash dog parks although I don’t know how that would work but it is an option. As far as the public park you can walk, expose your dogs to people, and both of you can get some exercise. Again I would not encourage bringing aggressive or sick dogs to a public area like that. If you have any questions you could always ask your veterinarian or some knowledgeable dog trainers.
Of course there are neighborhood walks and playing out in the yard. If you have that option it’s always an easy effective way to exercise your dog. Fetch, walking, and even training can be sources of exercise that are good for a dog and things you can do multiple times a day in short sessions.
You can go to a training class with other dogs and people. A lot of times the trainers are knowledgeable and there’s distance between the dogs so you do not have to worry about aggression or fights. Make sure you check out the dog trainer check references and of course if there’s any red flags once you meet the trainer don’t go to that trainer. A training class can be a good structured way to exercise your dog and you can get some positive tips from other people and the trainer.
There are Doggy Daycare‘s. Again check them out thoroughly and if there’s any red flags do not take your dog there. Check references and make sure it’s a safe place for your dogs. They of course have rules I’m sure about vaccinations and dogs being healthy and of course a dog cannot be aggressive at Doggy Daycare. I’ve heard of mini dogs being dismissed from Doggy Daycare because of extreme barking or aggression so definitely check into the rules and regulations and assess your dog and their personality before entering into a Doggy Daycare. I’ve heard they’re a good source of exercise although they can be expensive.There are Doggy Daycare‘s. Again check them out thoroughly and if there’s any red flags do not take your dog there. Check references and make sure it’s a safe place for your dogs. They of course have rules I’m sure about vaccinations and dogs being healthy and of course a dog cannot be aggressive at Doggy Daycare. I’ve heard of mini dogs being dismissed from Doggy Daycare because of extreme barking or aggression so definitely check into the rules and regulations and assess your dog and their personality before entering into a Doggy Daycare. I’ve heard they’re a good source of exercise although they can be expensive.
You can hire a dog walker. Dog walkers can come to your home and walk your dog even multiple times a day. This is a good option for people who work or have a busy schedule. Some of them walk your dog with other dogs and some of them walk your dog by themselves. You have to figure out which way you want and what your dog walker offers. Check them out thoroughly. Dog walkers can be expensive.Dog walkers in my area and so I’ve checked rates. Also, I would suggest making sure that the dog walker is bonded and insured just in case there’s an emergency or some thing happened. Make sure they’re qualified and good with dogs and have a good reputation.
You can get your dog involved in some sort of activity such as agility, barn hunt, rally, fast cat, dog diving. There are as many dog extracurricular activities as there are for children nowadays. Do some research, a lot of these require time, money and sometimes travel. Get into a good club with a good trainer. Also your dog needs to have some obedience training before getting into dog sports. Do research, make sure anyone you’re dealing with and reputable. Make sure everyone involved keeps your dog safe.
If you are not sure how to get your dog exercise. You can search out things on social media. Consult with trainers, veterinarians,and ofcourse other dog owners which are the best resource in my opinion. Sometimes professionals do not give ideas that are best for the regular old run-of-the-mill person. Example one time my veterinarian suggested that I find ducks for my dog to herd. That’s not some thing that most people find conducive to ordinary situations.
I am a firm believer in when you do not have something try to, create it or replicate it to the best of your ability and resources.
Some people who cannot access a normal Doggy Daycare create one by asking a friend or family member to take care of their dog for short periods of time. Due to working or busy schedule or whatever reason. The dog goes to another home during the day usually, but not necessarily, and plays with other dogs or access is a big yard or maybe just have someone who can walk them more often. I feel like this is risky because if something were to happen you might get stuck with a big Vet bill or some other expense or worst case scenario your dog be hurt or die but you do what you have to..This is an option and like I said, some people have found it to be very successful. This will give your dog some exercise have a controlled environment and you will know the person who’s taking care of your dog.
Example I do not live in a neighborhood where I can work my dogs or walk them. So I need to go to the dog park or the public park. I don’t drive so, that’s a problem most people do not want to just cart my dogs around so they can get exercise even though I find this to be very important and it helps my dogs mental health and physical health. So I had to find a dog walker, not to walk my dogs but willing to transport me and my dog‘s two places where they can get exercise. I pay the same dog walking rate which is kind of expensive but it’s worth it to get my dogs what they need.
Some of the reasons that dogs need exercise is like I said it helps their behavior. It keeps the obesity rate down because over 60% of dogs are obese which leads to many health issues and a shortened life Spand. Exercise helps mental health development and it’s just good for the whole family. Considering your dogs exercise needs is an important part of being a dog owner.
Paws of Happiness 