Importance of an Exercise Routine for your Dog: Part 2

Why does Fido need an exercise routine?

You may think an exercise routine for your dog sounds excessive, but think about those routines you already have for your canine best friend: breakfast at 7 AM, potty time right after waking and each time you return home from work or errands, going on your favorite after-work walk, and even heading to bed at the same time each night. These routines create a sense of normalcy and knowing what to expect in our day-to-day, and do the same for your pup as well.

How is a routine created?

It may feel great to come up with a big plan, comprised of a grand finale that you think you would enjoy - such as, running a 5K. You’ll have a lot of motivation to train for this when you make the goal, but realistically, that motivation will fizzle out in a week or two. Then you’ll end up feeling bad about how you didn’t stick to your plan…it’s kind of a vicious cycle.

However, there is a gentle way to create routines…a way that will help formulate habits you are more inclined to continue with. It isn’t glamorous, but it does work.

The solution is to start small. Take one step before you run that 5k. For your pup, take them out for a 15 minute walk before you take them for a run in the mountains. If you already take them for several potty breaks a day, choose one of those outings to extend by a few extra minutes. Over time, make the walk a bit longer until you work your way up to a 45 minute walk or more.

These examples are intended to highlight the importance of finding a routine that already works well into your daily routine. Sticking to a habit comes naturally when it fits well into your day. Additionally, spending extra time with your dog will help solidify the relationship you already have with them. You’ll start to notice the way they look at you when they are out there having the time of their life, and you’ll never want to stop once you see just how happy it makes them!

Where to Start

You might be at the point where you’re weighing all your options, and for good reason - you have a lot to consider. Your dog’s age, breed, and the type of exercise that will work best for them are all factors to consider. We have a few suggestions to consider which method might be best to work their exercise routine into your own routine.

Longer Walks

District Dogs suggests that if you are already taking your dog out for multiple potty breaks a day, add an extra 10-15 minutes to one of those walks.

Regular Play Sessions

Play is always invigorating for your dog, and for you. It’s fun to watch them get so excited, to engage in the play with them, and to watch how tuckered out they can get. Regular play sessions can be something simple such as tug or fetch in your yard with one of their favorite toys, taking a quick car ride to the park, or even to a friend’s house where they can romp with furry friends. Meeting up with other dogs is perfect for exercise and socialization.

Mental Workout

When it comes to burning calories, heart pumping cardio is great - make sure you don’t discount the amount of calories a brain can burn though. When you play brain games with your dog, or even practice training, you can make your dog pretty tired. Not to mention, continuation of training fulfills their desire to please you, as well as fortifying the bond between you two.

Believe it or not, training is not just for puppies. A well-behaved dog is a product of constant reinforcement. You can work on basic commands while out on your walks. But you can also teach your dog new tricks, the limit is as far as your imagination! Check our blog on training to learn more about how to train your dog.

Hiking

Have you ever noticed how your dog loves to lay in the sun, stick their nose in the wind, or take a couple breaks to stop and smell the flowers? While there are a few lessons we could learn from these behaviors, we’ll save that for another blog. The real takeaway is your dog loves the outdoors, as much as (if not more than) we do. Next time you plan to hit the trails, take your pup with you. They will most likely have an incredible adventure! If you need some trail tips, check out our blog on hiking - HERE.

Cycling or Skating

If you are interested in taking your dog on a quicker paced route, you could try your bicycle, skateboard, inline or roller skates. Most cities have bike paths, so you can take your dog safely on the roads. Also remember to start in an enclosed area to learn how to roll with your pup, and wear your protective gear (helmets and pads).

Swimming

Most dogs love water. This is also a great form of exercise for dogs with joint pains. Don’t forget to grab a life jacket to help keep your pup safe.

Fetch

As we mentioned earlier, fetch is a great form of play. But it’s also great for cardio. You can switch it up by throwing the ball up a hill, or switching between a ball, frisbee, or their favorite toy.

Draft-work

“Dog Sledding isn’t just for sled dog breeds. Larger breeds often enjoy draft work, whether it involves a sled, a cart, or skijoring, and these activities are also fun for people.” (The AKC)

Dog Sports

These are fun and vigorous forms of exercise for your dog. There are so many to choose from like lure coursing, scent work, agility, obedience, flyball, dock diving, Schutzhund, and rally.

To summarize

“Exercise provides all dogs with mental stimulation and keeps them active, which can help prolong their lives and reduce the risk of obesity” (The AKC). Understanding why dogs need to exercise is a good place to start. Using some of the aforementioned tactics will help you create a routine for you and your dog, to help make exercising a beneficial habit. Let us know in the comments your favorite ways to exercise with your dog.

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Written By: Gabby St.Martin

Gabby has been a dog walker and writer for Dog Tired Adventures. She loves being active, the great outdoors, and loving on her Doberman.

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