How To Create An Exercise Routine For Your dog
Eating right, getting appropriate sleep and getting regular exercise are proven ways to keep your dog physically and mentally healthy.
We know you would provide good food to your dog and dogs are capable of getting a good night’s sleep themselves. Exercising daily is also a necessity. We have tried to create an exercise routine that may work great for both you and your dog. Read on to find out -
Exercise routine for your dog
Not only is it important for your dog to have daily exercise, it is recommended that their exercise be consistent every day. It means that your dog should get their exercise at the same time of the day everyday for their body to get used to it.
Different breeds need different exercise routines. The average adult dog needs about 20 to 45 minutes of moderate exercise, such as brisk walking, twice a day. However, active dogs, including several sporting, herding and working breeds may need 1 to 2 hours of regular vigorous exercise.
Let's see what you can do:
The very first thing when creating a routine for dogs is to take their age into consideration…
For Puppies
If you have a puppy, it is best to have multiple short sessions throughout the day. Puppies have short bursts of energy and they can need frequent rest. For puppies, you can create a routine that includes
For Adult Dogs
If you have an adult dog, at least 30-60 minutes of daily exercise is recommended.
For Senior Dogs
If you have a senior dog, focus on low-impact exercises to protect joints. It is recommended to keep sessions shorter but more frequent.
Creating a routine for your dog
Creating a routine for your dog doesn't have to involve just one type of physical activity, you can incorporate different types of activities which would allow your dog to face different types of physical intensities and increase his stamina and strength gradually. You can change activities every week so that your pet can get used to one then move to the other activity.
For instance, the first week can be just walking/running, the week after that can be swimming, the week after that can be hiking and the last week of the month can be sporting activities like fetch, obstacle courses, scent work and tracking, etc. Remember some activities are very intense which is why only active dogs can endure them. This is one way to create a routine.
In case your dog is obese
In case your dog is obese, no matter the breed, you need to take it slow with him. Remember, the weight puts a strain on his joints and heart with every movement which is why exercise in moderation is highly advised. To be sure, talk with your vet about how much your particular dog can exercise according to his weight and what type of physical activity is best for him.
Generally, with overweight dogs, walking and swimming are good options. Take him out on a slow walk, when your dog gets tired, you should stop. You'll know he's tired when he's panting or by his lolling tongue. Overtime as your dog starts to shed those extra pounds, you can start with jogging and then eventually running. Make sure your dog's stamina increases before he takes on any strenuous physical activity.
Conclusion
Regardless of the physical activity you choose, maintaining a consistent routine is a way to ensure that your dog remains fit and happy for a long time. With time, you may have to make adjustments to their routine to suit age and physical condition so make sure to ask the vet whenever you make the visit.
Just know that a routine makes everything better, whether it's an exercise routine or anything else. So, keep at it and make your furry buddy one of the strongest, healthiest and happiest dogs there is!
