Making sure your dog gets enough exercise is crucial for their health and happiness. A lack of physical activity can result in negative consequences that are often overlooked until they become severe. Watch for these top 5 signs that your dog needs more exercise. Give us a call if you need help exercising your beloved dog – that’s what we’re here for!
1. Weight Gain
One of the most visible signs your dog needs more exercise is weight gain. Just like humans, dogs that consume more calories than they burn will put on extra pounds. Weight gain can lead to severe health problems like diabetes, heart disease, and joint pain if not addressed. If you notice your dog’s ribs are harder to feel or their waistline is less defined, it’s time to boost their daily activity and check in with your vet to rule out other causes.
2. Destructive Behavior
Dogs are not naturally lethargic or lazy. They naturally enjoy moving and burning off energy. When your pup doesn’t get enough exercise, that pent-up energy often turns into destructive behaviors around the house. These behaviors include chewing furniture, digging in the yard, or getting into the trash. Exercise not only tires out your dog physically, but also provides vital mental stimulation that prepares dogs to behave appropriately indoors.
3. Restlessness and Hyperactivity
If your dog often paces, seems unable to settle, or bounces off the walls, they’re probably not getting enough activity. Restlessness, hyperactivity, and even over-excitement are common signs your pup needs more movement in their day. Dogs like this may also show hyperactive play, often being too rough with people or other pets.
When walking, excessive barking or pulling on the leash may indicate that the dog needs more exercise and practice on a leash. For these dogs, multiple walks a day may be a better start than one long walk.
4. Increased Vocalization
If your normally quiet dog suddenly barking or whining more than usual, they may need more exercise. Increased vocalization can be your dog’s way of asking for more attention and more exercise. Dogs may bark and/or whine out of boredom. They may also vocalize to get you to play with them. Thankfully, regular walks and play sessions help channel this energy in positive ways.
5. Withdrawn or Depressed Behavior
Not all dogs become hyper or destructive when short on exercise. Some become withdrawn, lethargic, or display signs of depression. If your pup is sleeping more than usual, seems uninterested in play, or is difficult to motivate on walks, a lack of activity could be the reason.
Like people, dogs need exercise to release endorphins and lift their mood. If your dog’s mood doesn’t improve with increased, regular exercise, be sure to consult your vet to check for health issues.
Top 5 Signs Your Dog Needs More Exercise (and How to Fix It)
Every dog is unique, and their exercise needs depend on factors like age, breed, and health. If you notice any of these signs, try to increase the amount of physical activity and play in your dog’s daily routine.
- Incorporate daily walks, even if they are short
- Play games inspired by nosework
- Practice training
- Teach new tricks
- Hire a dog walker
Exercise can make a world of difference, improving not just your dog’s body, but also their mind and spirit. Regular exercise is key to a happy, healthy, and well-behaved dog!
Hiring a Dog Walker
At Shoreline Happy Paws, we’re committed to helping CT Shoreline families keep their pets happy and healthy. We understand that committing to providing your pets with more exercise can be a challenge. Life gets busy and dog walks are often one of the first things we, as professionals, parents, and busy adults skip.
It’s important to remember, however, that our dogs still need exercise, even when we can’t provide it. In those cases and during those times, count on us to help. We are happy to walk your dog and give them the exercise and enrichment they need to be fulfilled, even if it’s only once or twice a week. While we recommend walks more often, we are happy to work with you and your budget to design a schedule that gets your dog moving without breaking the bank.
The Best Dog Walkers in the CT Shoreline
Shoreline Happy Paws is currently accepting new clients for dog walking, dog hiking, and cat sitting services! New Shoreline Happy Paws clients can create an account. We will be in touch to further discuss your needs and set you, your family, and your cat(s) up for success. Existing clients, please book services by logging in to your client profile.
We serve the following areas of the Connecticut Shoreline:
- Old Saybrook
- Essex, Ivoryton & Centerbrook
- Deep River
- Chester
- Westbrook
- Clinton
- Old Lyme
- East Lyme
- Niantic
Certain Parts and Certain Service Hours in:
- Lyme and Madison
- Waterford, New London, Groton
- Uncasville, Gales Ferry, Mystic, Noank
