Exercise for you and your dog

In order to stay healthy and fit, and also live long active lives, we all need to exercise regularly. Dogs are no exception - exercise is just one of your dog's basic needs. I know it is easier to write about than to actually perform the exercises. In general, most dogs should get 1-2 hours of exercise daily to help keep them healthy. Our dogs may need more or less depending on age and breed. Your senior Shih Tzu may just want to loaf around on the sofa, while your young adult Jack Russell Terrier might be doing agility for 5 hours a day and still want more and maybe you will not.
As no two people are the same, nor two dogs are the same, so discovering your dog’s exercise needs may require you to observe and see how they react to different durations of exercise. My rule is to give you dog as much exercise as they want, but don’t overdo it. Watch for signs of exhaustion. Some actions to be on the lookout for are heavy panting, coughing, disorientation, and slowing or stopping to lie down while playing. Be sure not to overwork you r dog because some breeds will not stop, in order to make their master happy, and can injure them. Just as for yourself try not to exercise outdoor on very hot days, and be sure your dog has access to clean, fresh, and cool water.
There are many activities you can do with your dog while also bettering yourself at the same time. There is walking, running or hiking with your dog. Some activities provide more exercise for your dog than for you, but are still a fun way to spend time together while staying fit. You can play fetch with a ball in your garden or in the dog park. Also, tug of war with a thick rope and rubber tube can be effective and relatively convenient.
Another more involved activity, depending on your dog, can be agility courses. Either in clubs or competition, dogs can compete and socialize while they exercise. Usually the owner is a bystander but seeing your pet happy is always rewarding.
Not all dogs are capable of performing some of these activities but there is always a sport for you and your dog to become involved in. Exercise is critical for you and your dogs’ mental health as well. If some of these suggestions are not your cup of tea, I have known pet owners to invent an activity that fits their pet, their family and themselves. Always consult your vet before engaging in any intense sport and of course observe you pet to make sure he or she is reacting well to physical activity.

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