Is your canine companion an energetic, bouncing ball of fur? Or do you have an adorable couch potato with four legs? No matter which category your canine companion falls into, he will need regular physical activity to remain happy and healthy. Of course, dog workouts vary tremendously. A neighborhood Bloomington, CA veterinarian offers some advice on this subject below.
How Do I Get Fido to Be More Active?
Have you heard the saying, “You can lead a horse to water, but you can’t make him drink?” That applies here. Fido’s opinions and preferences should definitely be taken into account. You’ll have a lot more success getting your canine buddy on a good workout regimen if you try something he loves. Consider Fetch, for example. Many dogs learn this spontaneously. Others will just give you a cute, puzzled expression if you throw a ball or stick for them.
You might have to play around with several options to figure out what your canine companion prefers.
Nonetheless, walking is the norm here. Taking your dog for a few short walks each day helps him stay in shape.
How Can I Keep Fido Active Inside?
Sooner or later, bringing Fido out for more than a quick bathroom break will become unappealing. Whether it’s cold, raining, or both, your dog may become restless indoors. You can keep your pet active indoors.
Here are some options:
Stair Runs: Ascend the stairs while holding Fido’s favorite toy. Call him to come to you. When he brings you the toy, hurl it down the steps. (Note: This will only work for dogs who fetch and are in good enough shape to run up and down stairs a few times.)
Treadmills: Do you own a treadmill? If so, you can find out if your pet enjoys it. However, safety comes first. Remove Fido’s collar or harness. Start him on the slowest setting and keep a close check on him. Stop as soon as your furry friend appears tired. Finally, never leave your dog alone. (Note: Some cats utilize treadmills. Check out the viral video of Fluffy sprinting to Maniac from the Flashdance soundtrack. (You will not be disappointed.)
Workout Buddy: If you exercise indoors, try including Fido into your regimen. Are you doing sit-ups? Grab a dog toy. Throw it while you’re sitting up. You can also do this as you’re doing lunges or squats. (Our canine companions aren’t very good yoga mates, but they certainly make exercise more enjoyable.)
Fetch: This doggy favorite can be played indoors if you have enough room. You’ll of course, want to avoid areas with breakable and/or harmful objects.
How Can I Tell Whether Fido Is Getting Enough Exercise?
Fido’s weight and bodily condition are two good indicators of this. If you’re unsure whether your cute pet is overweight, underweight, or just right, consult your veterinarian.
There are also several behavioral cues. Dogs who do not get adequate exercise are more likely to engage in bad behaviors, such as digging and chewing. They may also be more rowdy. If your pooch has been acting up, it could be because he isn’t getting enough exercise or exercise.
Which Dogs Are The Least Active?
All of our canine companions benefit from regular exercise. However, some need a little encouragement, especially as they get older. Saint Bernards, Chow Chows, Basset Hounds, and Mastiffs, to name a few, are examples of dogs that might become, well, rather lazy.
Which Dogs Require The Most Exercise?
Your dog’s age, breed, and health all play a role here. Some puppies are undoubtedly more energetic than others. If you’re thinking about adopting a dog, doing some breed research can be quite helpful. Some high-energy dogs include the Border Collie, Boxer, German Shepherd, Golden Retriever, and Siberian Husky.
How Do I Keep My Senior Dog Active?
Fido will have slightly different exercise requirements as he ages. He will get tired more quickly and won’t have the strength and endurance he formerly possessed. Senior dogs are also more vulnerable to harsh heat and cold, which can be an issue.
Walking and playing are appropriate activities for the majority of senior dogs. Just take care to avoid overexerting Fido. Keep a watchful eye on him and bring him in when he begins to look drained.
How Do I Know What’s Safe for Fido?
The answer to this question will change as your pet gets older. Fido’s health troubles may also come into play. Your veterinarian is a fantastic resource for this.
However, there are a few general guidelines to follow.
Some dogs should never exercise excessively. This mainly pertains to brachycephalic dogs like pugs and Boxers. Those pushed-in faces may be charming, but they come at a heavy cost to the pooch. These dogs have relatively tiny air passageways, making it easy for them to lose their breath. Their physiology also makes it more difficult for them to cool down if they become overheated, as panting is not as effective for them. If you have a brachy, don’t push Fido to run or play hard. Swimming is likewise prohibited, though your canine companion may enjoy wading or splashing in a sprinkler or doggy fountain. (This is, of course always super cute to watch.)
Swimming is also dangerous for small and toy breed dogs, since they are prone to getting into trouble. It all depends on how big the dog is. Some pooches, such as Labrador Retrievers, adore the water and adapt to it like fuzzy, barking ducks. Others simply don’t do well. This is also not suitable for puppies with long, thin torsos, such as Corgis and Dachshunds.
Another consideration that may limit Fido’s activity possibilities is the danger of hip dysplasia. This is most common in larger breeds, such as German Shepherds and Golden Retrievers, although any pooch might be affected. If your dog has arthritis or is in danger of developing hip dysplasia, your veterinarian and breeder may advise against training him to jump or stand on his hind legs.
What Are Some Activities I Can Do With Fido?
Fido can enjoy a whole range of doggy activities. The AKC registry includes more than 200 breeds. Each of them was created to serve a specific purpose. (Even toy breeds have a job: looking cute!) Fido’s breed may reveal a lot about what he enjoys the most.
That being said, if you and your furry friend are adventurous and up for a challenge, here are a few dog activities you can try:
- Dog Dancing
- Skijoring
- Skatejoring (skateboarding with your dog pulling you)
- Dock diving
- Agility
- lure coursing
- Earthdog
- Flyball
- Treibball
- Canicourse (Running with Fido)
- Hiking
Ask your veterinarian for particular advice on what might be best for Fido.
How Do I Know If Fido Is Overtired?
No matter what activity you and your canine companion are up to, it’s critical not to overtire Fido. Man’s Best Friend is exceedingly loyal and will go to great lengths to please his humans. Things to watch for include panting, lagging behind and drooling, stumbling, warm back, and discolored gums. If you see any of these symptoms, immediately give your dog water and allow him to rest. Then, return home. Contact your vet if warning signs persist.
Contact Our Bloomington, CA Pet Clinic
Do you have any queries concerning your dog’s activity requirements? Contact your nearest Bloomington, CA pet hospital at any time!
