Dogs need exercise. They deserve the movement and enrichment they get from daily dog walks no matter their size, age, or breed. Whether their families can only make time for a 10-15 minute walk or go as long as an hour each day, any amount of time spent outside and engaging with the environment will significantly improve a dog’s quality of life.
How Much Exercise Do Dogs Need?
There is, unfortunately, no mathematical equation that tells us how much exercise our dogs need. Each dog’s need varies according to its breed, size, age, overall health, and usual activity levels. The reality, however, is that most pet dogs in the United States are not getting the exercise they need, not even close.
As evidenced by the rise in pet obesity rates, our dogs have become increasingly sedentary, affecting their longevity. As it does in humans, regular exercise will extend a dog’s lifespan, keep them feeling well, and reduce boredom behaviors. Unless a dog is geriatric or chronically ill, dogs can easily start a new exercise routine with minimal risk of injury or need for special equipment.
Make It Part of Your Routine
Once you have your dog’s walking equipment figured out, it’s time to figure out when to go for a walk. Consider when you can realistically add a walk to your daily routine to ensure consistency and follow-through. Also keep in mind the season and daily temperatures in your area so that you can, especially in the summer, avoid peak heat and burning asphalt. If you choose early mornings or evenings, you should be able to maintain your schedule no matter the time of year or weather with adequate equipment.
Make It A Family Affair
Another way to make your dog’s daily walk more sustainable is to include your partner, spouse, and/or children. By including others, you’re not only ensuring that someone will remember to honor your commitment to your pet, but you’re also encouraging a culture of physical fitness in your home. Staying active together creates bonds, and lasting memories while improving your health.
Honoring the time that your pet needs will also teach your children to be better caregivers to their pets in the future, preparing them for the selfless acts that make all the difference in our pets’ lives.
Hire a Dog Walker
Pet parents reading this may be shaking their heads and lamenting their busy schedules. We understand. It’s prevalent for families with demanding jobs, children, and social commitments to feel pulled in a million directions. Many cannot take on additional responsibilities, no matter how important they may be.
The good news is that your dog’s needs can still be met with the help of a professional dog walker. At Shoreline Happy Paws, we offer various visit lengths, which allow us to cater to each dog and family’s needs and budget. Even a short walk is enough to get your dog’s body moving, ward off boredom, and boost their health.
To learn more about how we can help get your dog the exercise he needs and deserves, review our services, email info@cthappypaws.com, or call 860-964-0464. We look forward to helping you improve your dog’s life with our midday dog walking services.
