Dogs are like little kids. They can and do get bored of the toys and activities they once loved. If your dog has been showing signs of restlessness on his usual walk in the park or doesn’t appear as enthusiastic about playing fetch as he used to be, it’s time to change things up. Here are six new exercises that will get Rover all excited again.
Running
You need to keep fit just as much as your dog does, and if the idea of putting on a pair of trainers and taking a jog around the park sounds appealing to you, it’s time to rope in your dog as a training partner. Rain or shine, you can be sure your dog will be happy to accompany you on your run.
Set fitness goals for both your dog and yourself by signing up for a run-with-your-dog race. Just make sure you bring plenty of water so both you and your pet can stay hydrated.
Swimming
Swimming is an excellent low-impact form of exercise for dogs of all ages. Thanks to the fact that it’s gentle on the joints, physiotherapists often recommend it for injured athletes in rehabilitation. The same is true for dogs, particularly older ones who are experiencing joint problems.
If your dog isn’t used to swimming, don’t toss him into the water. Let him get accustomed to getting wet at his own pace and he’ll be much happier for it.
Agility
Build an agility course or obstacle course in your backyard and your dog will have the time of his life! Most of what you need can be found in abundance at hardware stores or flea markets or even in your own (or a friend’s) garage.
Stick poles vertically into the ground so your dog can weave in and out, create jumps by placing planks across bricks or blocks and fashion a doggie tunnel out of a kids’ play tunnel from Ikea. The possibilities are endless!
Dancing
No, we’re not suggesting you hang up a disco ball in the doghouse. Dog dancing actually refers to choreography and tricks which you and your dog perform as a team to a musical soundtrack. Dog dancing requires lots of concentration and is a great stress reliever for dogs. The easiest way to get into this activity is to join a class.
Stand-Up Paddle Boarding
Stand-Up Paddle Boarding is without a doubt one of the most popular new water sports in recent times, and it’s also an activity your dog can enjoy with you.
Before you set off for the beach or lake, help your dog get familiar with the board with the help of treats, and school him in the commands you’ll use to indicate to him when to get on and off. It may take a few tries, but once your dog gets the hang of riding on your board the sport becomes twice as fun!
Dog Yoga or “Doga”
Stretching your cares away shouldn’t be reserved only for humans. Doga, or yoga for dogs, enables your pooch to find inner peace through a variety of poses. Check if there’s a doga class in your area and see what your dog thinks of it.
Doga classes can vary considerably, but in general, they involve you as the owner massaging, stretching, and maybe even lifting your dog. This is a highly therapeutic experience for dogs and can be perfect for older pets who experience aches and pains.
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