Dogs need exercise. While that has been established and discussed at length, one question still nags at most owners. How much is enough? Granted there are certain breeds that benefit from a daily five mile run, while other breeds get worn out with a twenty minute walk and a rousing game of fetch. Do dogs get the same benefits by running on a treadmill as they would running on an open trail? Is it possible for a dog to get too much exercise?
Natural Need
Dogs need their daily walks because of primal instinct. They use the time to stretch their legs, explore their environment, and sniff out anything odd or unusual in their domain. Whether they are on a leisurely stroll, a brisk trot or galloping down the street, dogs still utilize all of their senses to investigate their territory. Treadmills may offer enough exercise to expel large amounts of energy, it doesn’t offer the same benefits as getting a dog outside. A journey outdoors uses all of a dogs senses, it isn’t merely physical exertion.
Alternatives
If an owner isn’t physically capable of keeping up with their dog’s boundless energy, it might be time to consider getting the dog involved in a sport. Flyball is an excellent energy burner that not only exercises a dog’s body but their mind as well. It is a competitive sport where dogs race on teams, jumping hurdles, while holding a ball in their mouth. An owner would not participate as much in Flyball as they would in Agility trials. Agility training is also an outstanding way to burn boundless energy, for both pup and human.
Too Much Exercise?
Too little exercise may result in behavior and weight issues. Too much exercise would put unnecessary strain on a dog’s back, hips and joints. Asking a low or medium energy breed to run five miles a day a may deplete the dog of their energy reserves, but it would also leave them in physical discomfort. If an owner is unsure about how much exercise their dog needs, it’s time to consult a vet.
Fetch This!
Low to medium energy breeds may only need a daily stroll and a quick game of fetch to have their needs met. To keep things interesting, while playing fetch, throw in some variations. Switching things up will keep a dog from getting bored with the game. If the dog is willing, some dogs are sticklers about what they will fetch, try throwing a toy, a ball with different textures or even a stick. Sometimes it doesn’t matter as long as the dog can use their chasing/hunting instincts.
Exercise is important for a dogs overall health and general well being. Dogs are pack animals and most thrive on human companionship. Owners use their daily exercise routine as a time to keep healthy and strengthen the bond with their dog. General rule of thumb; a tired puppy is a happy puppy.
Toledo, United States.
