Did you know that being a dog owner can make you healthier and give you a longer life? Our canine friends help to lower stress, anxiety, and even blood pressure. Obviously, you want to return the favor and make your dog’s life as long and healthy as you can. Dogs need exercise to be healthy. So do you. Why not exercise together? Here are some ideas.
Walk or Run
It’s a great form of exercise for you and your dog. Plus it is a great time to talk with your spouse! If you have a dog that likes to stop frequently and sniff everything in sight, though, this may not be as beneficial to you as it is for her, but it’s still a lot of fun. Walking or running is natural and easy for both of you. Keep in mind that your dog doesn’t wear sneakers, and hot pavement or walking through the woods might damage the pads on his feet. Be sure to find somewhere clean and clear to exercise, and if you’re in a public place, keep your dog on a leash so that he doesn’t get into trouble.
Swim
If you live near a river or a stream, or even if you have your own pool, you and your pooch will have a great time swimming together. Swimming is low-impact, so it’s easy on your joints and hers. Be careful with short-legged dogs, though – they’re often not good swimmers and they can get tired out easily.
Play Games
Frisbee, Fetch, ball, and other games where your dog can chase things will get both of your hearts pumping. Put some extra effort into jumping when you throw or even chase the toy with her. You’ll both enjoy the game and get a healthy workout in. Again, be careful where you are throwing – it’s very easy for a dog to get overly excited and run in front of a car after a toy.
Obstacle Courses
If you live near an obedience course, this can be extra fun for both of you. Run and jump over the hurdles with your dog and you’ll both feel the burn. You never know – your old dog may even teach you some new tricks!
Keep in mind that dogs are a lot like humans – they need to build up to an exercise routine. Don’t expect your dog to run a marathon with you if he’s never left the yard. Make sure you’re both well hydrated, take the proper precautions, and you’ll both be on your way to being the healthiest dog and owners in the dog park!
How do you exercise with your pet?
Lily @militaryfamof8 says
We are getting a puppy in a few weeks and this is a great post with tips to remember
Cynthia Nicoletti says
I have 2 small dogs and they have not received the exercise they should. We started to do long walks each day. That is a great step in the right direction.
Shelley Zurek says
I don’t have pets but we always had outside dogs when I was growing up. It’s amazing they always got plenty of exercise themselves.
Debra says
Great ideas…..I’m pretty allergic so no exercise with pets for me, but I imagine it’s great for both owner & pets!!
Jennifer Williams says
I took my dog to the vet to make sure he could run with me. He is only 7.5 lbs and I am training for a marathon so I wanted to see what distance would be safe for him. Our vet said as long as he is happy and I am not dragging him let him run. He is now out running me and well it is quite embarrassing when I have to stop and he is impatiently waiting, lol. I love having him as my running partner. They need exercise to stay healthy too.
Stacey Werner says
That is hilarious, Jennifer! I wish my dog could run with me. She is a beagle, and is VERY easily distracted. She’ll see a squirrel and go in one direction then she smells something and stops cold << not conducive to running!
Amber says
I love to exercise with my dog. Last summer I would put the baby in a stroller, leash the dog, and walk 2 miles a day. I can’t wait for the warm weather to get here again!
Stacey Werner says
Oh, I love walking with my dog in the warm weather, Amber. I really hate cold weather, and rarely get her out and about. Is it summer yet?