Dogs need regular exercise, just like people do. If your dog isn’t getting enough physical activity, he may become bored, hyperactive, moody, withdrawn, or anxious, put on excess weight, or release his pent-up energy in a variety of undesirable ways.

Most dogs are greatly under exercised. Many people have good intentions, but are not providing sufficient exercise to their dog on a daily basis. Exercise requirements vary depending upon age and breed. Generally speaking, young dogs require more physical exercise than older dogs.

Your dog’s current exercise regimen may be insufficient due to the following:

1.  Excess Puppy Energy:  Most pups have an ever ready supply of playful puppy energy, and require a minimum of three 20-30 minute sessions of fast-paced aerobic exercise daily. All that energy has to have a place to go! If you don’t actively exercise your pup, he’s going to find his own way to expel energy, often in the form of chewing, digging, and barking. Remember the old adage: A Tired Dog is a Good Dog!
2. Breed Requirements and General Physiology:  Working, Sporting, and Herding Breeds such as German Shepherds, Border Collies, Aussies, Shelties, Dalmatians, Retrievers, Beagles, Setters, Spaniels, Poodles, Weimaraners, Huskies, Malinois, Corgis, and Terriers typically require more exercise on a daily basis.
3. Means of Exercise:  Exercise can come in many forms. The important factor is that it is aerobic in nature. Never assume that your pup is getting adequate exercise just because he is outside all day. Dogs that are left outside are, generally speaking, only active in short spurts, and are largely inactive for the majority of the day. Therefore, It’s up to us to make sure they get the exercise they need every single day, whether it’s a long walk, a fast-paced game of fetch, a play date with another dog, or a game of flyball.

Great ways to exercise your dog:

• Play a fast-paced game of fetch or Frisbee for 20 minutes
• Enjoy a jog-walk in your neighborhood or at the local park (also a great way to socialize)
• Swim with your dog, assuming he likes water and is comfortable in a pool
• Organize play dates with other friendly dogs in your backyard; try www.nextdoor.com
• Take your dog to doggie daycare
• Hire a dog walker
• Hike with your dog and let him carry his own water in a backpack
• Enroll in an agility course (also great for your dog’s confidence)
• Play flyball
• Teach him to walk on a treadmill (they even have them specifically for dogs now)
• Go rollerblading in the park
• Take him with you on a bike ride
• Run from your dog and have him chase you (not the other way around)

Caution: Very young dogs and older dogs need to move at a slower pace; please be careful not to overdo activities that would harm joints. It is not advised to exercise your dog within 30 minutes of feeding. Please remember not to over exercise your dog on hot days. Always avoid hot pavement. Black dogs or dogs with a thick coat can easily overheat. If you have a dog with medical concerns, please consult your vet before beginning any exercise regimen.

Have fun exercising with your dog! Physical activity isn’t only important for your dog’s health; it’s also a way for the two of you to bond.