According to the Centers for Disease
Control, more than one-third of American adults are obese. But
humans aren?t the only ones putting on the pounds; The Association for Pet
Obesity Prevention indicates that more than 50% of cats and
dogs in the U.S. are overweight, too.
Obesity can lead to some serious health conditions in both humans
and animals -- including heart disease and diabetes -- so there?s no time like the present
to start eating right and exercising.
Many people avoid exercise because it feels like a chore, or
simply because they aren?t motivated. This is what makes exercising
with your dog so great. Not only will be it more fun, you?ll also
stay on track knowing that your pal is depending on you to get them
out and active.Just remember to consult your veterinarian before
starting any new exercise routine with your pup; every dog is
different, and not every dog is cut out for every activity.
1. Take A Hike
While walks around the neighborhood and games of fetch in the
yard are great, repeating the same routine every day can get boring
for both you and your dog. Hikes are
an excellent alternative not only because they get you moving, but
also because they offer an opportunity to explore new locations and
terrains. Just be sure to find a trail that is dog-friendly, and
prepare your dog by building up to longer walks, making sure that
their vaccinations are current, and
protecting them from fleas and ticks.
You will also want to bring water and first-aid supplies, as well as food for your
dog if you?ll be on a longer trek.
2. Agility Training
Many people think that agility training is only for super
athletic or naturally agile dogs, but the truth is that any
breed
can take part in the sport as long as the size of the obstacles are
appropriate for your dog?s size. So just what is agility training?
It?s an active sport in which your dog follows your cues to move
through an obstacle course of jumps, poles, tunnels, and other
objects. Your dog will be running, and you will too! To get started
in agility training, the AKC
recommends joining a local agility training group. Eventually, you and your dog
will be able to sign up for agility trials. To learn more, visit
the AKC?s Agility
Homepage.
RELATED
STORY: Try An Indoor
Training Class With Your Dog
3. Swim n? Slim
Swimming works the heart, lungs, and entire muscular structure
without putting stress on the hips or other joints, which makes it
a great workout for dogs with arthritis or hip
dysplasia. When summer rolls around, or if you live in a
climate that stays warm all year (lucky you!), consider taking a
dip with your four-legged friend.
Before letting your dog in the water, remember that not all dogs
are natural swimmers, and some dogs (like bulldogs) may not be able to swim at all
without a floatation device. Start your dog out in shallow water
and use a leash or floatation device if you need to. Support your
dog?s belly and front section to encourage them to use all four
paws. Go slow, be patient, and look for any signs of struggle.
Don?t force your dog to swim; some pups just aren?t cut out for
splish-splashing. However if your dog does take to the water, just
remember never to leave them unattended, and don?t let your dog
drink from lakes, streams, or other open bodies of water as they
can contain parasites and harmful
bacteria.
RELATED
STORY: A Joint Health
Exercise Routine For Dogs
4. Doga
Dog + yoga = doga. That?s right,
yoga for dogs. Doga is a lot like regular yoga but has slight
modifications so that your dog can participate along with you.
While doga does sometimes include physical exercises for your dog
(like stretching or standing on hind legs), it?s pretty low-impact,
and has more to do with bonding. Dogs who are hyper, young, or
weirded out by new situations might not be well-suited to doga, but
if you have a well-socialized dog who enjoys trying new things, why
not give it a shot?
5. Canine Freestyle Dancing
It?s an intriguing name, isn?t it? Canine freestyle dancing
combines music, dancing, obedience training, and tricks for one
pup-tastic choreographed performance. The sport has gained such
popularity that there are now competitions held in several
countries around the world. Canine freestyle is not only an
opportunity for your dog to learn commands and for the both of you to get
some exercise, it?s also a heck of a lot of fun. Visit the World Canine Freestyle
Organization and or the Canine Freestyle Federation
to find classes, and check out this video of a canine
freestyle dancing competition.
--
The Benefits of an Active Dog
Our dogs are natural athletes. Before they became our
companions, they had to fill their own dinner bowl and slackers
didn?t survive a life on the wild side. Once they joined up with
people, dogs used their talents to sniff out critters, point them
out, herd or course them down or even catch them. Protection dogs
targeted the bad guys while so-called lap dogs, often miniatures of
other working breeds, kept our feet warm and entertained with their
good humor.
Today, the doggy day job mostly focuses on being good
companions. That means when the weather turns foul or owners are
infirm, they transform from athletes into canine couch potatoes. An
active dog also helps keep owners active so that?s for them both.
Here are a few of the benefits of an active dog.
Keeps Dogs Slim
Active dogs burn more calories than when they sleep all the
time. Without the right amount of exercise and activity, dogs pack
on the pounds just like people do. Extra weight can predispose a
dog to diabetes, skin problems,
and arthritis, too. Besides impacting their health, the extra
medical cost hits owners in the pocketbook while keeping dogs
active only costs a bit of extra time.
Lubricates The Brain
Moving around more also gives dogs a reason to think. The old
saying, ?use it or lose it? applies to canine brains, too. So
regular activity helps keep your dog not just physically fit but
also mentally sharp and can ward off dog Alzheimer?s conditions
that affect old pets.
Loosens Creaky Joints
Old dogs develop arthritis and sore joints reduce their
inclination to move around. But if they just sit around, that
creates a vicious circle where they gain more weight which puts
more strain on painful joints, and so on. Moving, even a little
bit, helps reduce this biological rust and even makes arthritic
dogs feel better when they shed some poundage.
Reduces Dog Boredom
Bored dogs get into trouble. A Border Collie bred to herd sheep may
instead turn to rounding up the cat or toddler or emptying your
sock drawer. Dogs become a nuisance with lots of barking or even
turn into demolition experts out of boredom. The healthy activity
gives dogs something constructive to do and it also tires them out.
A tired dog is often the best-behaved dog.
Prolongs Life
Studies have shown that keeping dogs on the thin side actually
adds a year or two to their life. So providing healthy activities
for your dogs can mean you get to enjoy each other that much
longer. That?s a win-win for you both.
More on Exercise for Dogs
Exercise for Dogs With
Arthritis
Exercise for Dogs to Prevent and Treat
Joint Health Issues
How to Help Your Dog Lose
Weight
The Best Senior Dog Pet Supplies All the Best Products for Your
Older Dog's Needs
Older dogs, like people, can't always do the same things they
used to. For your aging pup, you should kit them out with
age-appropriate gear. Here is a list of some of the best senior dog
products on the market.
By the time your dog is a senior, you've probably grown into
best pals. And if you adopted your dog as a senior, you know how
quickly these loving dogs can take on a special place in your
heart.
Senior dogs have different needs from when they were younger,
both in terms of health care and the proper supplies.
Take a look at the top picks for senior dog supplies, and get
everything you need to treat your pal in their golden years.
Dog Food for Senior Dogs
A new stage of life means a new set of nutritional needs. Make
sure your senior dog's diet is giving them the best nutritional
value. These foods are formulated with the needs of a senior pet in
mind.
By the time your dog is a senior, you've probably grown into
best pals. And if you adopted your dog as a senior, you know how
quickly these loving dogs can take on a special place in your
heart.
Senior dogs have different needs from when they were younger,
both in terms of health care and the proper supplies.
Take a look at the top picks for senior dog supplies, and get
everything you need to treat your pal in their golden years.
Dog Food for Senior Dogs
A new stage of life means a new set of nutritional needs. Make
sure your senior dog's diet is giving them the best nutritional
value. These foods are formulated with the needs of a senior pet in
mind.
Nutro Ultra Holistic Senior Dry Dog
Food
-
Rich in vitamins, minerals, and nutrients for senior dogs like
glucosamine and Beta Carotene
-
Boost the health of your dog's skin and coat
-
Promotes a strong immune system
Purina One SmartBlend Vibrant
Maturity 7+
-
Intended for dogs 7 years and older
-
Made with real chicken as the first ingredient
-
Enhanced with botanical oils to nourish your dog's mind
Wellness Super5Mix Just for
Seniors
-
Made with a patented combination of fruit and vegetable
antioxidants
-
The recipe was chosen to improve the overall fitness and
longevity of senior dogs
-
Supports hip and joint health
Eukanuba Senior
Maintenance Dry Dog Food
-
Uses premium choice meats
-
Made with Beta-Carotene, L-carnitine, and Omega-3 fatty acids
for the health of your senior dog
-
Great source of vitamins and minerals
Dog sure Liquid
Meal Replacements
-
Highly palatable for senior dogs who need some encouragement to
eat enough
-
Supports fluid intake, to keep your dog hydrated
-
Made with high-quality proteins
Dental Treats for Your Senior Dog
Dental health is always important, but as your dog ages, it
becomes essential to fight plaque and keep your dog's teeth and
gums healthy. A dog with healthy teeth will eat, play, and live
more comfortably, and avoid some serious dental issues down the
line.
Halo Spot's Chew Mint
Dental Treat
C.E.T. Enzymatic Oral Hygiene
Chews
-
Geared toward larger dogs
-
Contains a plaque-preventing enzyme that works like your dog
chews
-
Keeps dog breath smelling fresh
Greenies for Senior
Dogs
-
Perfect for home dental care
-
Made with added vitamins and minerals for improved oral care
-
The chewy texture that's easier on senior dogs' teeth
Toys!
Playing with your dog may well be the best part of being a pet
parent. That shouldn't go away just because your dog is getting
older. Playtime will help keep your dog's body active and healthy
and their mind engaged. Play on!
Senior Kong Toy
-
Encourages play and exercise for less active dogs
-
The gentle yet durable rubber compound is easier on older
teeth
-
Can be filled with treats for even more fun
Multipet Nostalgic Toys
Zap Ball Flash 'n
Sound Dog Toy
-
Keeps your dog's attention with noises and lights
-
Easier to spot than a normal ball
-
Perfect for playing fetch with your senior dog
Figure Eight Rope Tug
Dog Toy
Accessories for Easy-Livin'
Senior dogs are ready for some simpler solutions in life. You
really can't beat a softer bed or a more comfortable dining
experience. Treat your senior to the accessories that will make
each day a bit comfier.
Posture Pro Stainless
Steel Double Diner
Dog Gone Smart
Bed
-
Soft and plush for older dogs
-
Stays clean naturally with patented NanoSphere finish
-
Prevents the spread of bacteria
Smart Elizabethan
Collar
Vitamins and Supplements
Sometimes our dogs can use a little extra help in staying
healthy and fit. These vitamins are perfect for senior dogs and
formulated to help with their needs.
Excel Senior
Multi-Vitamin for Dogs
-
Provides the balance of vitamins and minerals essential for
senior dogs
-
It will help maintain a healthy coat
-
It's easy to feed your dog this tasty, chewable tablet
Glyco-Flex III
-
Alleviates joint inflammation and stiffness
-
Contains vitamins C and E, glucosamine, and grape seed
extract
-
Made with human-grade ingredients
Kala Health Geriatrix
for Dogs and Cats
-
A daily multi-vitamin for older pets
-
Contains 19 vitamins and minerals and 18 amino acids
-
Made with all USA ingredients
Pet-Tabs Plus
With the right supplies, you and your dog and play and nap
together all through their senior years!
Amy Shojai is a certified animal behavior consultant, consultant
to the pet care industry, and award-winning author of 23 pet care
books.
Exercise helps to promote good overall health in your dog by
keeping them limber, agile, and at
an appropriate weight. Another way to care for your
pet's health? Sign up for PetPlus
and save up to 75% on your pet's medications plus discounts on
boarding, supplies, and more.