The Importance Of Exercise For Dogs
Exercise for dogs is as important as it is for people. In fact, if practiced regularly, it is able to guarantee numerous benefits and, in addition to physical well-being, also mental.
Through physical activity, dogs can release tension and, along with a balanced diet, lead a healthy lifestyle. So why not provide this basic health requirement to your pet?
In this article, we’ll talk about why it’s important to make sure your dog is getting the right amount of exercise.
Exercise is the key to fighting anxiety
Exercise has been widely shown to reduce anxiety in dogs. All pet owners should make sure their best friends are physically fit. This simple measure could save you some hassles, like coming home and finding the sofa broken and chewed up.
In fact, the lack of exercise and adequate mental stimulation can cause the dog to seek your attention through destructive behaviors.
Exercise slows down aging
Undoubtedly, in dogs, as in humans, getting the right amount of exercise can help maintain mental acuity. This results in a lower incidence of age-related diseases.
Of course, exercise should fit your pet’s stage of life. Keep in mind that it’s important for older dogs to stay active, but don’t overdo it. For this reason, it is highly recommended that you follow your vet’s advice on how much and what type of exercise is appropriate for your dog.
Prevent osteoarthritis with exercise
Regular exercise is known to be one of the best ways to ensure your pet’s joints are healthy.
Keep in mind that it’s not just about maintaining adequate weight to avoid excessive pressure. Exercise keeps your joints lubricated while strengthening your muscles.
Strengthen the bond with the owner
Without a doubt, when dogs and their owners exercise together, their emotional bond strengthens. Since exercise is a stimulating activity, sharing it creates a positive strengthening of friendship. Even if it is a simple routine like walking every day, it will improve your mental and cardiovascular balance.
Of course, you should always pay attention to your pet’s needs. For example, if you are used to jogging on the beach, you should consider that shells can be painful for your dog’s sensitive pads. Also, working out during sunny hours can cause your best friend to suffer from heatstroke.
All dogs need exercise
Throughout history, humans selected dogs to perform certain types of activities and jobs. That’s right, your best friend’s ancestors were bred to hunt, to herding, or for other purposes. For this reason, it is important that your dog can act according to his instincts to some extent.
This is not about taking him on the hunt, rather about granting him interesting opportunities to practice according to his needs. If a dog does not get the type of exercise appropriate for its breed and age, such as chasing a Frisbee, it will start barking at passers-by or getting dirty.
Exercise leads to obedience
A good dog is one who trains adequately. If you want your dog to obey you with enthusiasm, you will have to teach him new games. In this way, the relationship is strengthened and will have a more obedient behavior.
The road to socialization
Exercise can and should be part of a routine that also includes contact with other dogs, people and environmental stimuli. This is a very effective way to direct a young dog towards adequate socialization.
It is important to keep in mind that, for most dogs, a leisurely walk around the block will not meet their exercise needs. Conversely, playing in the park with other dogs promotes their socialization while ensuring the right amount of exercise.
