We all know that dogs need exercise. Some dogs need more than others. Some giant breeds are very much couch potatoes and 10 minutes of exercise is more than enough. Then you have your dogs like Labradors. . .they never seem to get enough
There is a right amount and a wrong amount for a dog. The idea is to make sure they get enough exercise to keep them energized and relaxed, but not enough to exhaust them or build up their stamina so much that they constantly crave more. Your dog can be overstimulated by too much exercise and it can keep him from relaxing when the exercise is done.
So what is the right amount and what can you do about it? Give your dog varied exercise routines: walks, throw the ball, tug, etc. (Note: When you let your dog out to run in the backyard, that is not considered exercise). Then mix in some mind exercise routines: training, agility work, nose work, games, tricks… .anything that will engage his brain.
If walks are not relaxed, meaning your dog cannot walk on a loose leash, you should SHORTEN THE WALK TO JUST THE DRIVEWAY. Go back to your training basics and do it again and again until they get it right. Only then lengthen the walk further.
A few other notes:
THE ZOOMIES!
The zoomies are when the dog literally zooms around with no rhyme or reason and just won’t stop. Many times this is a release of stress OR an indication that your dog has not gotten the proper amount of constructive exercise during the day. When your dog gets the zoomies, get out of his way and let him run. I, typically, let them out to run in the backyard until it’s out of their system. The next day, make sure you mix up your training to use your dog’s physical and mental abilities to drain your dog’s energy.
DOGGIE DAYCARE
Doggie Daycare can be a great thing. It gives the dog socialization and an outlet for exercise. However, you must be careful about your daycare.
- Are the staff properly trained in dog behavior and interaction?
- Can they distinguish a dog in the beginning stages of stress?
- How do they handle incidents?
- Do the dogs have adequate downtime?
- Do they provide stimulating activities or are the dogs just running around together?
There are many more questions that should be asked when you leave your dog at a daycare, but this is a start. I have seen many times when an owner is thrilled when their dog is tired when picking him up from daycare, but I can see the dog is not as much tired as shut down from stress. Make sure you know the difference!
IN CLOSING
All dogs need exercise, but all exercise is not created equally. Make sure you have a varied schedule for your dog in order for him to be the best he can be.
