Physical activity is vital to your dog’s physical and mental health. But how much exercise should your dog be getting, and which activities can you do together? Today, our Santa Clarita vets share some sports you can play with your dog to spice up your dog’s regular exercise routine.
Why do dogs need physical activity?
Getting active with your pet is generally a good idea and will help them maintain a healthy weight and strong bones. It is recommended that most dogs get at least 45 minutes of exercise a day, but more can be recommended depending on your dog's age, breed, and overall health.
For example, greyhounds, whippets and other sighthounds are not built for long-distance running, and short-nosed breeds like pugs are not suited to prolonged strenuous exercise. Consult your veterinarian for more information on your specific dog's activity level.
Regular exercise, along with a healthy diet, helps keep your dog healthy. Daily exercise is proven to help to lower a dog's blood pressure and build muscle, while also working their joints, and helping to stimulate their gastrointestinal system, helping to keep them regular.
One of the biggest benefits of regularly exercising your dog is preventing obesity. Obesity is one of the most common health concerns in dogs, and can lead to more medical issues as they get older. A dog struggling with obesity is more likely to develop conditions such as diabetes, osteoarthritis, and even have an increased risk of cancer.
Regular exercise is also proven to help with a dog's mental health, and a happy dog is less likely to have anxiety, which can lead to destructive behaviours such as chewing on furniture.
Choosing Sports For Your Dog
It’s important to cater whatever sports you play with your dog to their specific needs. Some breeds, such as Border Collies, Dalmatians, and Dobermans, might be better for something a little more breed-specific like agility training or nosework, while other less active breeds may just prefer to throw a frisbee around the backyard for a few minutes. Flat-faced dogs like pugs and shih tzus, for example, are prone to overheating after very little exercise.
Keep Safety Top of Mind
Safety should always be your top priority when it comes to playing sports and engaging in physical activity with your dog. Any activity that requires hard balls, or involves lots of people running around, could easily result in your dog getting injured. Make sure whatever you choose doesn’t put your pet at risk.
Pick Easy Sports for You & Your Dogs
If you’ve never pictured your dog playing sports or aren’t sure which activities you two might enjoy together, start slow, with easily achievable goals for the amount of time you spend burning off calories. There are a number of simple activities you can do with your dog with little equipment or preparation. Aside from regular walks, try taking your dog on a hike. If your dog becomes an expert hiker, maybe take them on a run. If it's time for your pooch's annual exam anyway, take the opportunity to consult your veterinarian about physical activity for your dog.
Other sports many dogs enjoy playing include catching bubbles, fetch, frisbee, or tug of war.
The Importance of Socializing Your Dog
To give your dog enough room to run and play safely, you’ll need a large outdoor area. Dog parks are a popular destination (and often the only large outdoor green space many will have access to). These spaces can be great both for taking your dog to play and for socializing them.
As soon as possible after your dog has been vaccinated, try to get them out meeting other friendly dogs in as controlled an environment as possible, so that they are used to other dogs being around. If your dog is used to other dogs and plays well with them, they may eventually get to a point where you can have a group of dogs playing sports!
Consider Canine Conditioning & Agility Training
Taking your dog to a specific dog trainer or training facility can be like playing a sport for them. While you may not be getting a workout, your dog’s body, certainly their mind will. Besides the basic sit and stay commands you should already be teaching your dog, taking them to a facility or a trainer can be extremely beneficial to their mental and physical health. With the trainer, your dog can learn to do specific tricks and exercises that will be fun for them.
Spending Time With Your Dog is Always a Good Idea
Ultimately, what your dog wants is to be with you. Anything you can think of to do together that is safe is a win. Whether the two of you are relaxing at the park on a blanket, throwing around a frisbee, or visiting a training facility, any time spent together is time well spent!
Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. For an accurate diagnosis of your pet's condition, please make an appointment with your vet.