Pet Obesity Day is coming up October 13th. Obesity is literally a big problem among our canine pals. It’s also very dangerous! As you probably know, keeping Fido active is key to keeping him fit. A local Greater Cincinnati vet offers some advice on doggy workouts below.
This is probably the most popular workout for our canine friends. Even if Fido has a yard to run around in, he’ll still enjoy and benefit from regular walks. Don’t think of this as a chore: it’s a great chance for you to spend some quality time with your furry best friend!
Playing is also a great way to keep Fido in shape. It’s also adorable to watch dogs hard at play! If your pooch has more energy than you do, keep him occupied with games that have him doing all the work while you stay still. Fetch and Frisbee are both good examples of this.
Swimming can be a wonderful workout for dogs. The water will support their weight, allowing them to get a great cardio workout without straining their bones and joints. This is great for many large breeds and older dogs. Supervise your furry buddy closely when he’s near water, and never leave him unattended. Of course, you’ll also need to consider Fido’s opinion. Some pups are natural swimmers, who take to water like fuzzy, barking ducks. Retrievers, for example, tend to love water. Others? Not so much. Don’t force your pooch to swim if he doesn’t like it.
Do you have a four-legged bundle of zoom on your hands? If you have a home gym, you may be able to teach Fido to walk on a treadmill, as long as you’re able to supervise him. Man’s Best Friend has also taken up jogging, hiking, surfing, skateboarding, dock diving, and even skiing! Just be sure to take proper safety precautions. Ask your vet for more information.
Doggy exercise requirements are not one-size-fits-all. Most pups need at least a daily walk. However, some need an hour of daily exercise. Keep in mind that not all activities are suitable for every dog. For example, some pooches shouldn’t jump or stand on their back legs, while others shouldn’t swim or run. Ask your vet for specific advice.
Do you have questions about your dog’s activity needs? Contact us, your Greater Cincinnati pet hospital, anytime!
