Exercise - The basic remedy for health

One of the most basic things you can do for your dog is give him/her plenty of exercise! This is truly a must, especially if you have a high energy breed. No more lounging on the couch munching popcorn with your dog - Get out there and get fit! Your dog will love you for it, and you will benefit too! There are many ways to exercise your dog, and a few things to keep in mind concerning age, breed, and any health problems your dog may have. The benefits from exercise are boundless for both you and your dog, so let's find a few ways to make it interesting!

Here are some exercises you can do with your dog:

• walking
• running
• biking
• hiking
• jogging
• swimming
• fetching
• playtime with other dogs
• tug-o-war
• Frisbee
  
• weight pull (yes, ANY breed can do it!!)
• agility
• long jumping
• schutzhund
• backpacking (having your dog wear a backpack while on walks)
  
• tracking
• herding
• flyball
• cart pulling
• flirt pole
• spring pole
• racket
• obedience
  

Of course, keep in mind your dog's ability, and slowly build up to any strenuous exercise your dog isn't used to, and never over-exercise a growing puppy. I'll discuss some of these activities in future posts, but this just goes to show that there is no shortage of things to do with your dog. Your dog is only as boring as you make him/her! So get out there and have some fun! Remember, exercise needs to be both physical and mental to prevent and manage behavioral problems.

Why is exercise so important? You may be thinking... "My dog just sits around all day and doesn't have any behavioral problems! Why should I push him/her more?" That may be the case, but most healthy dogs don't lounge around all day. All dogs have the instinct to migrate with the pack. You happen to be a part of your dog's pack and have a responsibility to fulfill your dog's needs.

Exercise is good for the heart, muscles, and mind. It builds lean muscle mass, keeps the heart in shape, burns fat, maintains lung capacity, increases stamina and overall health including an improved ability to make it through medical conditions. Think about it: A dog with a weak heart probably has a smaller chance of surviving a traumatic event than a dog with a strong heart in peak condition. The better shape your dog is in, the better chance you're in it for the long haul (combined with excellent nutrition)!