MEMBER LOGIN

Like people, dogs need exercise to stay in shape and feel healthy. Exercising with your dog is a fun way to spend time with him and keep him happy. Be sure to always obey the leash laws of the state where you reside. The laws are in place to protect people and dogs. Your dog may listen to you perfectly under all circumstances and be friendly to all he meets, but that may not be the case with other dogs and their owners that you may encounter.

Here are some ways that you and your dog can exercise together:

Walking, Jogging, or Hiking
Walking around your neighborhood, at the beach or at a nearby park provides your dog with much-needed fresh air and mild exercise. Jogging is a great way for your dog to expend some energy, particularly if he has been inside for most of the day. Be sure to gradually increase your dog's stamina as you would your own. Hiking is an opportunity for your dog to explore nature and sniff all kinds of new scents that he doesn't find every day. Just be sure your dog is up-to-date with his flea and tick medication before taking him into any wooded areas. Also, bring along a collapsible bowl and a water bottle for your dog to keep him hydrated while outdoors.

Swimming
Some dogs are naturally drawn to the water and enjoy swimming while other dogs are more fearful of it. If your dog has never been swimming before, try taking him to a quiet beach with his favorite toy. Slowly lead him to the water; never force him if he seems scared. The more often you do this the more likely your dog will get used to and eventually enjoy being near and even in the water. Exposing a dog to the water when he is young will make him less afraid as he gets older. If you have access to a pool, be sure to gradually introduce the dog. If he enjoys the pool be sure to immediately teach him the way out so he never feels a need to panic. The precautions taken to ensure the safety and well being of a child in regard to a pool should be practiced with a dog as well. This includes preventing access to the pool without supervision.

Playing Fetch
Many dogs love to play fetch. Set aside two balls that squeak for this purpose. The novelty of only having access to them while playing this game, along with the sound they make, will help to keep the dog interested. Setting up a relay where you trade one ball for the other ensures that the dog will always drop the ball he retrieved. Just be sure that you and your dog play within a fenced-in yard so that if the ball accidentally goes over the fence, your dog will remain in the yard and out of harm's way. If your dog has friends in your neighborhood and have been introduced to each other previously on neutral territory, ask mom or dad if you could invite him or her over for a play date in your backyard.

A Trip to the Dog Park
Dog parks provide pets with lots of stimulation and fun, and an opportunity to make new friends. Most dog parks are large enough to allow dogs to run back and forth many times comfortably. Bring along a collapsible bowl and a water bottle for your dog in case there isn't any available. Most dogs love the company of their own kind but it's always best to be safe rather than sorry. Before entering the park take a minute to observe the dogs at play. Be aware of any "Bullies" acting in an aggressive manner. Have the plastic end of a party favor horn on hand as a noise correction. Blowing this can help prevent rough play from escalating to an uncomfortable level. In the event of a fight, bang metal bowls together if they are on hand, Use a chair to separate them or throw a jacket over the head of one of the dogs. Be sure to have moist wipes and a flea comb in your car. Comb and wipe down the dog before entering the car to prevent the spread of dirt and parasites.

Mind Games
Exercising your dog's brain is also very important to his overall well-being. Some great ways to keep your dog's mind active include giving your dog a hollow dog bone or toy with a treat inside, playing hide and seek with his toys, and teaching him a new trick.Obedience training helps to exercise the dog's brain and body while enjoying the added benefit of a well-behaved, happy and intelligent dog. Agility exercises also provide the same benefits. Creating and setting up a homemade agility course can be a fun project for the entire family or starter sets can be purchased at a reasonable price.

Exercising helps dogs live longer, stay alert and be happy. And, it helps to maintain a healthy heart, lungs, muscles, and joints. These days, many pet supply stores sell items like life vests and backpacks made especially for dogs that help to make it safer and easier for your dog to participate in certain sports and exercises. So go ahead and start exercising!