Exercising with Your Pet: Fun Ways to Keep
Them Fit
Regular exercise is essential for your
pet's physical and mental health. The great news is exercising together
strengthens your bond while keeping you both fit! This article explores unique,
stimulating ways to work out with your furry companion for a happier, healthier
life.
Table of Contents
- Walk Your Dog
- Play Fetch
- Go Hiking
- Swim Together
- Agility Training
- Flyball
- Bikejoring
- Canicross
- Cat Agility
- Clicker Training
Games
1. Walk Your Dog
Daily leashed walks are essential
exercise for dogs. Start slow if your dog is out of shape. Gradually build up
duration and speed. Vary routes for mental stimulation too. Make sure to bring
waste bags and water!
2. Play Fetch
Playing fetch is a simple way to
exercise together. Toss balls or flying discs for your dog to run after and
retrieve. Just a few minutes of fetch provides a good workout. Remember to give
breaks and watch for signs of overexertion.
3. Go Hiking
Explore new trails together! Start with
flat, short hikes and work up to more challenging terrain. Always bring plenty
of water and collapsible bowls. Make sure your dog has good leash manners.
Hiking is wonderful bonding time.
4. Swim Together
Does your dog love to swim? Swimming
provides an ideal workout, especially for joint issues or mobility limitations.
Always supervise and use a doggy life jacket if needed. Check water quality and
watch out for hazardous debris.
5. Agility Training
Agility is a fun way to engage in
vigorous physical and mental exercise together. Your dog runs through tunnels,
jumps hurdles and weaves poles under your direction. Classes teach you how to
train and progress. Some facilities even offer indoor dog pools!
6. Flyball
Flyball is a high-intensity racing game
between teams of dogs. They jump hurdles to trigger a ball launcher, then race
back with the ball to release the next dog. Tournaments exist, but any properly
trained dog can play informally for fitness.
7. Bikejoring
For athletic dogs, attaching them to a
towline on your bicycle is an intense workout. They assist propelling you while
also sprinting themselves. Proper training is imperative - this activity is
only for dogs over 18 months old. Always use a harness, not collar.
8. Canicross
In canicross, your dog is tethered to
your waist belt as you run together. This provides an athletic challenge you
both will love. Proper equipment like shock absorbing waist belts and harnesses
reduce strain. Always warm up first and start slow.
9. Cat Agility
Even cats can do agility! Set up low
hurdles, hoops and tunnels adjusted for cats and walk them through the course
using toys and treats for motivation. Make sure cats find it rewarding - never
force participation. Extra play sessions also provide good exercise.
10. Clicker Training
Games
Train a variety of fun behaviors using
clicker training, then put them into action during play. Great skills like
fetch, jumping through hoops, weaving around cones or balancing treats provide
physical and mental exercise. Always keep training positive and varied.
Conclusion
Exercising together meets your pet's
instinctive needs while strengthening your bond. Pick activities suited to your
pet's physical abilities and energy level. Always monitor for signs of fatigue
or discomfort. With a little creativity, exercising with your pet can be fun
for both of you!
Frequently Asked
Questions
How much exercise does my pet need?
Most pets need 30-60 minutes of
activity per day but this varies by breed, age and health status. High energy
pets like border collies may need more. Senior or disabled pets do well with
multiple short walks.
What are signs my pet is getting too
much exercise?
Watch for limping, panting, reluctance
to continue, slowed pace, hiding or seeking shade. These indicate fatigue. End
exercise immediately and provide rest and hydration.
Can I take my small pet hiking safely?
Yes, with proper precautions! Use a cat
leash and harness or small dog carrier backpack. Bring plenty of water and
food. Monitor closely for fatigue. Avoid dangerous terrain or wildlife.
Consider pet trail hiking poles too.
What types of dogs enjoy exercising
together?
High energy breeds like border collies,
Australian shepherds, vizslas, weimaraners and Dalmatians often love vigorous
mutual exercise. Always tailor activities to your individual dog's abilities
though.
How can I exercise my arthritic or
senior pet?
Try short, frequent walks on soft
surfaces, massage, range of motion stretches, hydrotherapy, joint supplements, ramps/lifts,
indoor fetch, nosework, clicker training, puzzle toys and diet optimized for
mobility.
