Exercise With Your Dog
Provided by Purina
Exercising with your dog not only strengthens the bond you two share, it also helps
control his weight and maintain a healthy heart, lungs and muscles.
- As you exercise with your dog, consider his needs and present physical condition.
Leisurely walks may be best for an older dog while a young dog has ample energy
for a vigorous exercise program.
- If your dog has more energy to expend than you do, teach him to fetch a ball or
Frisbee. The activity may be just right for you and a challenging exercise for your
dog. For walks or jogs together, keeping your dog on a leash gives you control.
- If, for whatever reason, you haven’t exercised your dog regularly and decide to
launch a regular exercise program, go slow at first. Begin with short periods of
activity at slow speeds and gradually increase the time, speed and distance.
- Begin walking or running your dog on soft surfaces such as dirt, sand or grass until
his pads toughen.
- Avoid exercising your dog immediately before or after he’s eaten. A full stomach
may cause digestive upsets. Provide only small amounts of water before and directly
after exercise.
- Weather conditions are an important consideration. Dogs can suffer from frostbite
and heat stroke just as people do. If you walk your dog in the snow, be sure to
wipe the paw pads to remove any snow and ice buildup or possible salt that may have
gotten caught. Remember that your dog's feet can be damaged by hot asphalt during
the summer.
- If you walk your dog in wooded areas during the summer, check his eyes, coat and
feet for foxtail, seeds and dirt. Also check carefully for ticks. Dogs with short,
smooth coats may require the warmth of a dog coat or sweater when they go outside
during cold weather.
- Check with local authorities to find out what local laws allow. Your police department
or animal control department can tell you more about laws in your municipality.
- As you walk your dog, train him to walk at your side to help control him so he won't
jump on children, other dogs or adults.
- If your dog has a history of medical problems, work with your veterinarian to plan
an appropriate exercise program. Whatever exercise program you pursue, remember
that your dog loves to spend time with you and you can make that time special.
