Getting exercise is always a must for humans and dogs. If you have been working out alone despite having an animal companion, you might be doing it the wrong way. In case you do not know, dogs make great exercise buddies and fitness tools for good reasons. They are naturally playful, keep a positive attitude, and help you have a good time. Above all, you and your pet can benefit from what exercise offers.

So if you’re looking for better ways to have fun and get active with your pet dog, we’ve prepared a list of people and dog-friendly exercises you can start doing today.

Exercises You Can Do With Your Pet

Just as exercise is a basic human need, the same applies to our animal companions. There are activities you can do with your dog while also exercising at the same time. While some of these activities might provide more exercise for your pet and vice versa, it’s still a fun way to bond with them.

Below are five simple and pleasurable activities to burn calories with your furry buddy.

1. Running

Although jogging and running can keep the heart healthy, not all dogs are built for it. For example, Greyhounds are great at short-distance sprintings but can quickly get tired in long-distance runs. So if jogging and running are in your routine, choose canine breeds ideal for distance running, such as Belgian Malinois, Labrador Retrievers, or Dalmatians.

When your pet is fully grown, start doing 10-minute runs daily and gradually increase the time until they can fully handle 30 minutes. Avoid the hot times of the day when choosing a time to run with your pet to prevent heatstroke. If you see them lagging behind you, take five minutes of cooldown and call it a day.

When you see soreness or signs of fractures after the workout, consider taking them to animal facilities that offer cold laser treatment. They’ll benefit from the relaxing effects of pet laser treatment along with quick recovery. You may click here to learn more about vet laser therapy.

2. Going to Dog Parks

Dogs love socializing with their fellows, which is a good reason to walk them to parks. Canines like social interactions and know how to play with their fellows. A dog park is a great environment to polish your pet’s social interaction skills and discover new games with other dogs.

However, there are crucial considerations to make before socializing your pet. Only take your canine to parks after finishing their core vaccines and have at least one booster shot. This secures your pet from lethal viral diseases like parvo, distemper, and canine influenza. If your dog still lacks preventive treatments, buying pet wellness plans that contain bundles of the mentioned vet subscriptions is a good idea. You can also get discount rates on vet visits, another excellent reason to consider a pet wellness plan.

3. Hiking

Dogs love outdoor and nature views as you do. So the next time you plan your hiking adventure, remember to take your pet with you. You might also explore new parks and trails to entertain your pet with new environments and surroundings. If you feel your pet is not ready for a hike, take them to the vet for a cat check up in Morton to evaluate their condition. The veterinarian can provide tailored advice and recommendations to qualify your pet for the activity.

4. Swimming

Many dogs love water, and swimming can benefit pets with joint problems or in their senior years. The water’s resistance and buoyancy are excellent environments for pets recuperating from joint pains and injuries, making swimming a low-impact exercise. Providing a life jacket to your pet can help them stay longer in the water, which also promotes heart health.

5. Walking

Walking might be the most classic and basic type of exercise we can give our dogs. The good thing is that many dogs love to walk. Aside from getting some exercise, walking with your pet is also a good way for them to discover the world with their nose. Taking different routes on each walk is also a great idea. This enables them to smell and see different things while meeting new friends and other people.

Conclusion

Exercising is a perfect mood booster for people and provides physical and mental stimulation for pets. Although regularly exercising with your pet may seem like a tough commitment, it is a great way to deepen the bond between you and them. If you’re unsure about the appropriate exercise and the amount of energy your pet can commit to activities, talk to the vet and ask for advice and suggestions.