EXERCISING YOUR DOG

As a dog owner. providing your dog with plenty of exercise is a key responsibility. Not only will your dog love the activity, but it will keep him happy and healthy. So, however busy you are, always make time to exercise your pet.

Dogs are naturally very active and playful. Their wild relatives spend most of their day hunting for food, defending their territory and playing with each other. Pet dogs, are the total opposite, they are given all the food they need and are often confined for most of the day. As a result, about 44 percent of them tend to become obese, out of shape and lazy. Lack of exercise can also lead to boredom, which makes many dogs destructive. The key to keep a dog healthy and happy is exercise.

EXERCISE REQUIREMENTS

All dogs enjoy exercise and play, but the actual amount and type varies according to their age, breed and state of health. Before buying a new dog, get to know the different breeds and the amount of exercise they require. Many breeds, particularly the sporting, herding and working dogs, need regular vigorous exercise. If you are a busy professional who only has the time for a short, daily walk, it would be irresponsible to take on one of these breeds unless you can arrange for someone to exercise the dog. You should be better off with a toy dog or one of the less active breeds.

In general, you should try to give your dog some type of exercise everyday. If you have questions about your dog's fitness exercise, see your veterinarian before starting an exercise program. He or she can check your dog for any health problems that may be aggravated by exercise and give you suggestions for a safe exercise regimen. Those breeds that are prone to bloat should not be exercised immediately after meals.

FORMS OF EXERCISE

Walking is the best all-around form of exercise, providing cardiovascular conditioning and muscle toning. When walking a dog in public, always use a leash. An extendable leash allows your dog plenty of freedom to explore, but also gives you short-leash control when necessary.

If your dog is old, out of shape or has a health problems, start with a 15-minute walk on a leash each day and gradually increase the duration. For young, healthy dogs, leash walks alone may not provide enough exercise. For these dogs, vigorous off-leash activities should be added. However, dogs should only be allowed off the leash if they obey commands and only in safe areas where regulations permit. If your dog enjoys playing with other dogs, organize for them to meet up and play together.

Jogging or running is another way to exercise energetic healthy dogs, but use common sense when taking a dog for a run. Don't run with a dog until its skeleton is mature and avoid running on very hot days. You should also try to stick to soft surfaces to protect your dog's footpad.

Playing games is one of the best ways to both stimulate your dog's mind and provide vigorous exercise. In addition, it allows you to establish your leadership in an enjoyable way. Games of fetch with balls, Frisbees or sticks are excellent ways to give your dog a good workout without getting yourself too sweaty. The sporting breeds, such as retrievers and spaniels are naturals at fetch and easily give up objects. Other breeds, such as terriers, are more likely to hold onto things no matter what. All dogs, however, can be taught to drop an object on command.

When playing fetch, choose a toy that your dog likes to put in its mouth. Fleece toys, soft Frisbees, squeaky toys or soft balls are good choices. Avoid small or smooth balls which can be swallowed and don't pick something edible, such as rawhide.

Tug-of-war games are enjoyed by most dogs and can be combined with a game of fetch as a reward for retrieving. Don't play tug, however, until your dog knows how to drop on command. Otherwise he may get over excited and become aggressive.