Exercise...The key to a happy life!

Proper exercise for your pets is the most important thing you can offer them.

The best way to exercise your dog is by bring him in for PACtivity 3-5 times a week at the Pet Athletic Club. However, if for some reason (and there aren't many), you can't bring your dog in for PACtivity then here is the best alternative.

As trainers, every dog we have been called to work with is under-exercised. Your dog needs to be exercised every day. Rain or shine – it doesn't matter. Whether you walk, jog, run, Rollerblade, or cycle take your dog with you. Just like you, your dog still needs this exercise.

The length of time your dog should be exercised depends on the intensity of exercise as well as his breed, health, and age. Achieving the right level of exercise for your dog isn't always easy and will require some trial and error, but your efforts will pay high dividends in the end.

In general, a healthy adult dog should receive a moderate- to high-level of exercise for 1.5 hours per day. We recommend 45 minutes in the morning before your dog is fed, and 45 minutes in the evening before feeding him. This helps fulfill your dog's natural need to hunt– 45 minutes of hard work is rewarded by his food in his den (cage). For more information about feeding your dog, click here. Or look back at last weeks blog on feeding.

When walking your dog, make sure he's in a loose 'heel' at your side. He shouldn't be pulling ahead, lagging behind, or sniffing around. Keep a pace of at least 3.5 miles per hour, and don't stop until you are ready for the dog to eliminate. Your dog should walk the entire time—no stopping and starting.

If the walk isn't tiring out the dog consider using a back pack. Dog packs can be filled with weights or water bottles to add some resistance and tire the dog out more effectively. The weights in the pack should equal 20% of the dog's weight.

Notes:

Elderly or handicapped owners may want to consider using a treadmill in place of leash walks. If you would like to teach your dog to run on a treadmill feel free to stop by The PAC and we will show you how.

Allowing the dog time in the back yard does not qualify as exercise. This requires very little mental stimulation and will not normally wear the dog out.

Playing fetch or other games can qualify as exercise but not more than 2 days per week, and obedience must be included in the game. The walk is the key to success.

Good Luck today and get out and get walking. It will benefit you and your dog. Tune in tomorrow for our lecture on crate training and potty training. No more mistakes guaranteed!

Have a great day...your dog is!

www.petathleticclub.com