Everyone knows that exercise is good for us. Even if we’re not the biggest fans of it, exercise offers us better physical and mental health when we make the time to do it. This is the same for most mammals, including dogs!
Every dog is different when it comes to how much exercise they need, and there are certain factors that can really enlighten us, especially breed and age. When adopting a dog, it is best to find a dog that will suit your own lifestyle, and that includes physical activity. For instance, if you have a more sedentary lifestyle, a working breed like a Belgian Malinois or an Australian Cattle Dog, might not be the best fit when it comes to exercise and physical activity (especially if they are puppies or young adults). As an Atlanta dog trainer for 10+ years, I have seen lots of mismatches like this, and it sometimes can lead an unexercised dog to act out in anxiety and boredom, which manifests into destruction and excessive behaviors. So if you’re looking for a couch potato dog, maybe look into a Pug or Bulldog!
Still, even if you have the right match, it is important to remember that there is mindful exercise and then mindless exercise. Both can be fine, but it is best to have more mindful and engaging exercise with your dog.
What is an example of “mindless exercise”? I meet with lots of people who have the privilege of having a fenced-in yard at home, and when it comes to exercising their dog, sometimes that just means letting the dog out to get some zoomies out. Now, while there’s nothing wrong with that (some dogs delight in the zoomies and tire themselves afterward), I always recommend adding in more thoughtful exercise such as walks, where you might work on commands like Heel or Focus. Walks should be enjoyed and dogs should have some freedom to sniff around and such, but it can also be very enriching for them to follow some rewarding commands in the middle of it!
If walks are not an option or preference, and you have that fenced-in yard, maybe see if your dog is into some games! Does your dog like to fetch? If your dog doesn’t understand it, we can train them! If fetch isn’t something your dog seems interested in, there are plenty of other options, such as teaching a “Find It!” command, doing doggie “Red Light, Green Light”, having a race together, and more! These kinds of options can be both physically AND mentally stimulating, and you’re teaching your dog some good habits while they’re having fun!
Again, if your dog has a ball (no pun intended) getting some zoomies out, or maybe they play together with another dog (this can be mindful!), that is all fantastic! But don’t forget to involve yourself more in your dog’s play, and make it more mindfully enriching for them! It benefits them and builds your relationship with your dog more!
Any questions on exercising your dog or teaching some of the aforementioned mindful exercises, reach out to us! If you’re also struggling with destructive habits or anxiety-based behaviors such as excessive barking, hyperactivity, and more, give us a call at 678-358-0658!