Giving Your Pet the Right Amount of
Daily Exercise
Our furry companions need daily physical activity to stay
happy and healthy, just like us humans. But with different pets come different
exercise needs based on breed, age, health status and personality. Determining
the right amount of exercise can prevent obesity and behavior issues in dogs
and cats.
Follow these tips to identify your pet's unique activity
requirements and provide well-balanced daily enrichment. Get ready to play!
Ø High Energy Dog Breeds
Some dogs are perpetual puppies when it comes
to energy levels. Breeds like Border Collies, Jack Russell Terriers, Australian
Shepherds and Dalmatians need vigorous, sustained activity every single day.
Plan on providing:
- 🐕 At least 60-90 minutes of exercise split into
multiple sessions
- 🐕 Heart-pumping activity like running, hiking
or swimming
- 🐕 Task-oriented play like retrieving toys or
herding
- 🐕 Mental stimulation through training and food
puzzles
Without ample physical and mental engagement, these
breeds are prone to anxiety, destruction and neurotic behaviors like obsessive
tail chasing from pent-up energy. Make exercise top priority for a calm,
well-behaved pet.
Ø Moderately Active Breeds
While not quite perpetual motion machines,
breeds like Retrievers, Spaniels, Pointers and Shepherds still need a good
workout daily. Shoot for:
- 🐕 30-60 minutes of exercise
- 🐕 Mix of walking, playtime off leash and
fetch
- 🐕 Interactive toys and learning new commands
- 🐕 Avoiding repetitive activity that leads to
boredom
With their moderate energy levels satisfied, these dogs
will be primed for some solid nap time after their daily dose of activity.
Ø Lower Energy Dogs
Breeds like Bulldogs, Basset Hounds,
Chihuahuas and Greyhounds tend to be couch potatoes. But don't skip exercise -
aim for:
- 🐕 20-30 minutes split into two short walks
- 🐕 Occasional playtime mixed with rest periods
- 🐕 Mental challenges like hiding treats around
the house
Monitor weight closely in lower energy dogs and adjust
food or exercise if needed. Even small amounts of activity keep the body
conditioned and joints healthy.
Ø Kitties Need Playtime Too!
Contrary to the belief that cats sleep all
day, they still need daily enrichment. Strive for:
- 🐈 At least 15 minutes of interactive playtime
with wands, lasers or fetch
- 🐈 "Hunting" toys that mimic prey and
engage instincts
- 🐈 Puzzles and treat balls for mental
stimulation
- 🐈 Opportunities to climb, scratch and observe
bird activity
This transforms an idle housecat into a healthier,
happier hunter!
Ø Adjust for Age and Ability
For senior pets or those with mobility issues, take the
vet’s advice on safe exercise routines. Low impact activity keeps aging joints
limber and prevents pain flare-ups.
And remember - kittens and puppies need frequent play
sessions and social time during prime developmental weeks. Learning bite
inhibition and social skills with littermates is crucial.
Ø Weather Precautions
In very hot or cold temperatures, keep walks brief and
stay close to home. Opt for indoor play or mental puzzles when weather limits
outdoor time. Overexertion in high heat can cause heat stroke in pets.
Ø Make Exercise Fun!
Finding activities your pet enjoys makes
fitness a reward, not a chore. Ditch dull routines and mix it up with:
- 🐶 Visits to new parks, trails or beaches
- 🐱 Clicker training sessions and
hide-and-seek
- 🐶 Playdates with neighbor dogs
- 🐱 Catnip kickers and crinkly tunnel exploration
- 🐶 Games of fetch and frisbee catching
- 🐱 Food puzzles and interactive feeders
A little creativity keeps your pet interested in staying
active and lean. Remember, a tired dog (or cat!) is a happy one. Give your pal
the playtime and enrichment they crave each day!
