How much exercise does a dog need?

How much exercise does a dog need?

We all know having a pet brings a lot of joy into our lives. As pet parents, we want the best for our dogs. Providing the best can look like many things, and exercise is one of them. Exercise can help your pup physically, but it’s mentally stimulating too. You’re probably asking yourself, “How much exercise does my dog need?” It depends on your dog's age, breed, and state. It’s best to speak with your vet to figure out what is optimal for your pup. In this blog, we’ll talk about the benefits of exercise, fun activities for our pets, and a few of our recommendations.

Benefits of Exercise for My Dog

We all know exercise has a myriad of benefits. These benefits include healthy joints, stress relief, weight management, and more. Not only will your pet's joints benefit, but their mental health will too. Dog boredom is a real thing, and our pets need something to stimulate their brain versus doing something they shouldn't be. Movement releases pent up energy!

Fall Activities with Your Dog

Fall is a perfect time to get outside and enjoy the beautiful foliage with your dog. Here are a few activities you can do with your pup!

  • Take a hike - Enjoy the foliage with your pup by exploring dog-friendly hiking trails.
  • Go apple picking - A fun way to take your dog for a walk is to take them apple picking. It's great for your dog to socialize, get movement in, and possibly eat a yummy treat!
  • Visit a pumpkin patch - Let your furry friend help you pick out the perfect pumpkin.
  • Play Fetch - Change up your scenery by going to your favorite park! It's a great activity for bonding with your dog and getting some fresh air.
  • Enrichment Activity - If you decide to stay home, give your pup a mentally stimulating activity. Check out our blog on interactive toys to help stimulate your dog's brain.

Best Exercise for Your Dogs

We know the benefits of exercise for your dog, but what are some recommendations? Before we dive into dog exercises, we want to be sure your pet is getting proper nutrition. Adequate nutrition is crucial in preventing any joint issues. Our Joint Mobility GLM supplement will help support your dog's overall health while providing superior joint support and protection. Now, let's take a look at some recommendations:

  • Puppy - Get to know your breed first. For very young puppies, keep exercise to short walks and play sessions within the day. To keep it simple, be sure your pup gets three exercise sessions in one day. Two of which can be short walks, and the third one can be a brain-stimulating activity!
  • Senior - Start slow with your elderly dog. It’s best to aim for a low-impact exercise like walking. Be sensitive to your dog’s needs by paying careful attention to them before, during, and after their walk or activity of choice. Throw in a mentally stimulating activity, as this will tire them out.
  • Breed - As previously mentioned, always be sure you understand your pet's breed. For example, a herding dog may need 60 minutes of movement, but a small dog may only need 30 minutes. As you can see, there’s quite a range in how much exercise your dog may need since each dog’s energy levels differ.

Always remember that every pet is uniquely different, and getting movement in can be as simple as dog walks. We encourage you to speak with your vet to determine what is best for your dog.

Quick Summary

As pet parents, we want the best for our beloved pets. Understanding your pet's specific needs and how you can support those needs is crucial. Next time you go outside, bring your dog with you! Your pet will thank you for the quality time together. Comment below and tell us some of your pet's favorite activities. Don't forget to join our Facebook group today to connect with fellow pet owners!

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