There are many activities you can do with your dog while exercising at the same time. Some activities provide more exercise for your dog than for you but are still a fun way to bond. Play fetch with a ball or a disk, visit the dog park. Do you want your dog to get involved in dog sports? Agility, fly ball and herding competitions are great places to start.
Here are a few tips on how you and your dog can exercise together
Take a hike
A hike is a great idea, but if you are not used to strenuous exercise, start with a walk, and build from there. Many of us are pressed for time. So, if you are running late in the morning, try to get up just a bit early – if possible. You can take a ten-minute walk with your dog If your schedule allows it, try to get in three walks a day, and make one at least twenty minutes long.
Visit the dog park
If you can try to walk to the dog park. When you get there, toss a ball around with your dog. Both of you will get some exercise that way and have a little fun. This will also help your dog get used to people and other dogs. Maybe even make a new friend.
Take a swim
Swimming is a great way to cool off and is a low-impact exercise that you can both do together. I have also found that playing around on a beach can be a lot of fun too. We have a couple of sandy beaches at a lake near our home. The dogs love to run around and chase a ball or stick that I throw out into the water.
How about a good game of tug-of-war?
My dog loves tug-of-war so much that as soon as I come in the door i’m greeted with a rope hanging out of her mouth. Come on Dad, lets play!
Play catch
Whether it’s a ball, a Frisbee, or her favorite toy, go outside and play a game of catch. We have a lot of fun tossing around a tennis ball outside. Our dogs have even gotten really good at bringing the ball back to me. They love playing fetch!
Cut back on those treats!
Instead of rewarding your dog with treats, give her some attention. Dogs love interacting. If you want to give your dog a treat, break it in half and put the other half away for another day. Same goes with your treats. Eat half today and the other half tomorrow. This way you won’t feel deprived.
Check with your vet
Before you exercise with your dog, talk with your veterinarian. Certain exercises, such as running or even jogging, are not recommended for puppies whose bones haven’t finished growing and for some short-legged and short-nosed breeds. Short legged dogs don’t need as much walking as larger dogs, and flat-nosed dogs can have trouble catching their breath.