Can You Exercise with Your Dog?
Can you exercise with your dog? Yes! If, like most dog owners, you want to find ways to include your furry friend in your daily exercise regime, there are several hound-friendly activities you can use! Of course, dog walking has always been an ideal way for pet parents and their hounds to keep fit and get fresh air, but what other exercise-inducing activities can you do with your dog?
Activities You Can Use to Exercise Your Hound
Here are some exercises you can do with your dog when you are not training or walking him.
Fetch:
This classic game is oodles of fun for both you and your dog. If you have a large yard or park nearby, it's easy to play fetch with your dog. All you need is a Frisbee or ball they like, and the two of you can have hours of fun!
Doggy obstacle course:
Create a canine obstacle course in your backyard. Using cones, old tires, jumps, tunnels, and other objects, you can create a bespoke hound obstacle course for both you and your hound. Your dog will enjoy running through the course, and it's also great for dog training. Furthermore, you could run alongside your dog or race them around the obstacles to see who gets to the end first!
Swimming:
Exercise doesn't always have to be about running around - swimming is an excellent way for you and your pup to get some exercise. If you have access to a pool or lake, bring along your hound's life jacket and let him splash around!
Hiking:
If you're looking for an adventure, try taking your dog on a hike. Many parks allow dogs as long as they're leashed and well-behaved. One of our top dog walking tips is that pet parents should ensure the terrain when hiking isn't too rugged for their hound and always bring plenty of water for both hound and pet parent, as hydration is important during exercise.
Dog yoga:
Yes, strange as it sounds, there is such a thing as doggy yoga! This fun activity involves combined stretching and body awareness exercises that can help strengthen your bond with your hound while providing great physical benefits for both of you.
Running:
Most pet owners think dog walking is about taking their hound for a daily stroll, which for the most part, is true. However, dogs also require high-intensity workouts to get their hearts pumping and the blood flowing! Therefore, a quick trot around the block with your canine friend is super beneficial for burning calories and excess energy in both you and your canine friend!
Cycling:
It's unlikely you will find a hound pedaling down the high street unless it's in the circus! But pet parents who love to cycle can easily allow their hounds to run alongside their bikes. Just be sure to gradually build up your hound's stamina, as keeping up with a bike is hard work. Breeds that love this form of exercise are generally Huskies, Dalmatians, Collies, and Pointers.
Paw-ssionate About Exercise?
Exercising with your dog can be a great way to remain active and have fun with your furry friend simultaneously! And while dog walking is a great place to start, don't forget about the many other activities you and your hound can enjoy together. With a little canine creativity, you can find plenty of ways to exercise both you and your hound.
Image by Rafael Ochoa marín from Pixabay
