3 Fun Exercises to Do with Your Dog

To keep your dog healthy and happy, it's important that regular exercise is worked into the schedule. Fortunately, there are many fun ways to get your pup's body moving. Getting exercise for your dog doesn't have to feel like a chore; rather, it can be part of the joy of having a dog in your life. And if you're looking to get some exercise yourself, there are plenty of ways to get a workout alongside your furry friend. The amount of exercise your dog needs will largely depend on age and breed. Your veterinarian can take your dog's circumstances into account and give you recommendations on exercise needs.

Swimming

In Florida, opportunities for aquatic recreation are everywhere. But before taking the plunge with your pup, you'll want to be sure they're comfortable with swimming. It's wise to start with swimming in a placid lake so your pup won't be fighting currents or waves. Once it's clear they're a strong swimmer, then you might consider other bodies of water that are also safe. By being mindful of your dog's skill level, you can help to ensure that their safety isn't put at risk. You can also outfit your pup with a canine life jacket, which doesn't just boost safety, but also improves cuteness. Swimming is great because of its low impact on joints, which makes it an excellent option for older pups.

Skate Session

Some dogs can be trained on a leash to run alongside you while you skateboard or rollerblade. For faster dogs, this is a great way for them to run with you at a higher speed. However, some dogs have a chase response that kicks in when they see someone skateboarding. So it could take some patient training to ensure that your pup runs calmly alongside you. And you'll want to only skate with your dog along paths that are away from traffic. This exercise would be very dangerous to do on a roadway.

Homemade Agility Course

An agility course doesn't necessarily have to be made for the Westminster dog show. Rather, if you have available outdoor space, you can use cardboard boxes, hula hoops, and other common items to create your own agility course. And you'll get your own workout as you run alongside your pup, shouting encouragement.

Along with exercise, you can keep your dog healthy with regular vet visits. For a veterinarian in Miami, contact Animal General Hospital at (786) 288-5736. At our local vet clinic, we can give you expert advice for your dog's diet and exercise needs. Feel free to give us a call today to schedule an appointment!

Posted: August 10, 2021