Key Takeaways
Canine Fitness Month is a perfect reminder to focus on your dog’s physical and mental wellbeing.
Regular exercise supports your dog’s overall health by managing weight, preventing joint issues, reducing unwanted behaviors, and building your bond.
Exercise needs vary by breed and age, so it’s important to understand what’s right for your dog’s energy level.
Mental enrichment is just as important as physical activity, keeping your dog happy, focused, and stress-free.
There are endless ways to stay active together, from hikes and tug games to swimming, agility, or even indoor puzzles.
Burnell Pets offers canine enrichment services that support daily movement, play, and wellbeing through positive, fun experiences.
Did you know April is Canine Fitness Month? Just like us, dogs need regular exercise to stay happy and healthy. Yet, many pet owners underestimate the importance of daily physical activity for their furry companions. Whether you have a high-energy breed or a more laid-back pup, incorporating the right amount of exercise into your dog’s routine can significantly improve their quality of life.
The Benefits of Regular Exercise for Dogs
Exercise isn’t just about burning off energy—it plays a vital role in a dog’s overall health. Here are some key benefits:
Maintains a Healthy Weight – Obesity is a growing problem among pets, leading to serious health issues such as diabetes, joint pain, and heart disease. Daily walks and playtime help keep your dog fit and trim.
Strengthens Muscles and Joints – Regular movement helps maintain strong muscles and flexible joints, reducing the risk of arthritis and injuries as your dog ages.
Boosts Mental Stimulation – Exercise isn’t just physical; it’s also mental. Sniffing new scents, exploring different environments, and playing interactive games provide crucial mental enrichment.
Reduces Behavioral Issues – Regular exercise can help alleviate common behavioral problems like excessive barking or inappropriate digging and chewing. It’s important to remember that digging and chewing are natural behaviors for dogs, so rather than trying to eliminate them, pet parents should use positive reinforcement and force-free training methods to guide their dogs to express these behaviors in appropriate ways.
Strengthens Your Bond – Spending active time with your dog enhances your relationship, building trust and companionship.
How Much Exercise Does Your Dog Need?
Different dogs have different exercise needs based on breed, age, and health. Keep safety in mind at all times. Consult your veterinarian with any questions regarding an exercise regiment. Here are some general guidelines:
High-energy breeds (e.g., Border Collies, Labrador Retrievers, Australian Shepherds): 60-90 minutes of exercise per day.
Moderate-energy breeds (e.g., Bulldogs, Cocker Spaniels, Beagles): 30 minutes minimum per day.
Low-energy breeds (e.g., Basset Hounds, Pugs, Shih Tzus): 30 minutes of gentle exercise per day.
Senior Dogs: Low-impact activities like gentle walks and short play sessions help maintain mobility without putting stress on aging joints.
Fun Ways to Keep Your Dog Active
Bored of the same old walk around the block? Try mixing things up with these fun activities:
Hiking – Take your dog on a nature adventure. Let them explore new scents and sights. Does your pup enjoy a tasty snack? Try setting up a treat trail or “Snifari” by hiding their favorite treats along your path. Then let them safely explore the trail gobbling up their snacks along the way.
Fetch & Tug-of-War – Classic games that provide both physical exercise and mental engagement.
Agility Training – Some breeds love agility! Set up a small obstacle course in your yard for an extra challenge.
Swimming – A great low-impact exercise for dogs with joint issues or breeds prone to enjoy the water, such as Labrador Retrievers, Golden Retrievers, and Portuguese Water Dogs.
Puzzle Toys – Mental exercise is just as important as physical activity. Use treat-dispensing toys to keep their mind engaged. Remember, each breed and each dog have their preferences. Learn to perform preference testing to determine which activities your pet enjoys most. Once you know what gives your pup the most joy and enrichment, game on.
Doggy Playdates – Socializing with other dogs can provide excellent exercise and mental stimulation. Dogs are social beings. Provide well-organized and supervised playdates with other dogs. Did you know that the first 3 months of a pup’s life is the most important time to introduce puppy socialization? Weeks 3-12 are known as the Socialization Stage, which is also considered the sensitive period. It is during this phase of a puppy’s life that they benefit the most from exposure to numerous stimuli. Puppies receiving proper and positive socialization during this period are found to be less likely to develop fears and aggressions later in life.
Take Action: Make Canine Fitness a Priority
Now that you know the importance of canine fitness for your dog, it’s time to take action! Start by assessing your dog’s current activity level and make small, manageable changes. Even a few extra minutes of playtime or an additional short walk can make a big difference.
At Burnell Pets, we’re dedicated to helping pet owners provide the best care possible for their furry family members. Our canine enrichment service is designed to support your dog’s physical and mental wellbeing, helping you incorporate healthy activity and play into their daily routine.
Your dog relies on you for a healthy, active life—so find the joy in movement together, whether it’s a game of fetch, a trail adventure, or a cozy puzzle session indoors. Make every day an opportunity to move, play, and bond.