It's not a secret that your dog needs exercise. Depending on their size, dogs need exercise in various forms, and for different recommended intervals on a daily basis. One of the most beautiful things about engaging in activity with your dog is that it not only can enhance your health but your bond with your pooch.
Here are 4 tips for keeping your dog active, regardless of its size (like our large golden retrievers). Keep in mind, where you live and the weather can affect the course in which you choose to follow these tips!
Make it happen
No time is a bad time to start. Getting out your calendar and making a walking schedule, for example, is a wonderful way to set a routine for exercising your dog consistently. If you find that you have more time in the evenings and weekends, make that your dedicated walking time. Even if it's only 20 minutes, a walk can make all the difference in your dog's mental capacity for sleep, chewing appropriately, and interaction with the family.
Pro Tip
There are some great YouTube tips on how to train your dog to use a treadmill when the weather is not in your favor. We personally have not attempted to do this with our dogs, but feel free to (safely) try and report back to us!
Bring the Treats
Dogs go CRAZY for a good treat. At Vera Mountain Goldens, we use and recommend Stewart’s freeze-dried liver treats (they come in chicken, beef, turkey, and other flavors) that can be found at Chewy or your local pet food store. Many days when work is demanding and the kids are all over the place, I will take Yana down to the elementary school around the corner from our house and let her off the leash for a bit with treats in hand. This is a great opportunity to get her “zoomies” out (as I lovingly call them), stretch her legs, and run without me having to go a great distance from my home.
Pro Tip
PLEASE appropriately off-leash train your dog prior to letting them go run! We have spent many many hours training our dogs and working with professional trainers. A simple google search in your area can help you find a great trainer that will help you successfully advance an off-leash relationship with your pup.
Involve the Whole Family
Regardless of your family size, involving other family members is an enjoyable technique to connect with your dog and your loved ones. When winter sets in here in Colorado, we enjoy taking the dogs out sledding with the kids. Running up and down sledding hills is a sure way to get your dog some quality exercise and later some unbelievable sleep!
Pro Tip
Hiking, biking, sledding, swimming, and paddle boarding are all great ways to involve your family and your canine in outdoor exercise. Pick an activity and go!
Regardless of the exercise you want to get involved in with your dog, starting as soon as possible is going to be the key to your success. Don’t be afraid to reach out to us for ideas and more tips. Happy exercising!
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