Fun Ways To Get Your Dog Fit And Healthy

53% of adult dogs in the United States are classified as overweight or obese according to the Association for Pet Obesity Prevention. Just like humans, your pooch needs plenty of exercise to stay fit and healthy.

Whether your furry friend is chubby or you want them to maintain the ideal weight, there are various exercise options you can choose.

The choices you make should depend on the age, size, ability, and breed of your dog. Here are fun ways to help your doggie stay fit.

Get some toys

Dogs need 40 minutes of vigorous daily exercise to stay in prime physical condition. Toys offer a host of benefits to your doggie.

They not only keep your furry friend active, but they are also a fantastic way to help your pooch lose extra weight and stay mentally occupied.

The good thing about toys is that the dog can play with it alone, with you and with other dogs. By choosing the right toy, you can provide your pet with plenty of physical exercises and mental stimulation.

Some of the best toys include durable balls with unpredictable bounce and squeaker balls. You can also use the dog’s favorite toy to play fetch, tug of war and frisbee.

Go for a swim

Swimmers are known to be the fittest athletes. This too applies to dogs. Unlike your feline friend, most dogs absolutely love a splash. Swimming is a low-impact high-reward exercise activity suitable for all dogs regardless of their ability.

It aids in weight loss, strengthens joints and muscles and improving mobility. With this in mind, make it a routine to take your pet dog for a dip in the beach, lake or pool.

Safety should be top of your priorities, therefore you should first confirm if the swimming area is safe enough for your pet.

Walking and running

When it comes to exercising your dog, it’s hard not to think of walks and jogs. Dogs love to stretch their legs, and a daily walk or run can get your dog into shape and keep your pet mentally stimulated.

To make it more fun and motivating, occasionally change the routes you use as this will make your furry friend more fascinated with the different smells, sounds, and sights.

From fun games to competitive sports, there are plenty of activities to exercise your dog. Keeping your dog fit doesn’t have to be hard or expensive.

Even if you are too busy or have limited time, you can always seek the help of a professional dog walker. It’s your duty as a pet owner to ensure your pooch is physically healthy at all times.