Dog owners need to provide this. Aside from food, shelter, affection, and the occasional bath, a dog should be given enough physical activity to keep the animal fit and healthy. In addition, a well exercised dog is usually a better behaved dog and does not usually become hyperactive or bored when left alone.
Another thing dog owners need to realize is that while exercise in general has a positive influence on the dog’s life, there are some specific types of exercise better suited to dogs. The best kind of exercise is those that strengthen the body and at the same develop the mind. The main objective, therefore, is to teach the dog to be calm and composed through physical activities that require the animal to read and obey command signals given by the owner. Canine agility is an excellent example of this.
The Wrong Way
Exercise just like everything in life must be done in moderation. Too much exercise can lead to injury or fatigue. Dog owners should be sensitive enough to know that their dog is “dog tired.” The effects of over working the animal or an injury that results from it can lead to the development of early dog arthritis. Remember that physical activities such as running or jumping place a lot of mechanical stress on the joints, and those forces cause the deterioration of joint cartilage. Normally, the cartilage can replenish itself, but when the strenuous physical activity is done too frequently, the cartilage may not be able to regenerate. So the key here is exercise in moderation and in a controlled environment.
The Right Way
There are many exercises or physical activities that are designed for dogs. One good way of providing a healthy physical activity is by enrolling in obedience classes. In a class environment, the dog is given the opportunity to meet other people and other dogs. The experience will not only provide a healthy amount of exercise and develop obedience skills but it will also help transform the animal into a well-adjusted dog that can function and interact in a community effectively. Choosing a reputable dog trainer is vital to ensure that your dog is taught properly. Positive reinforcement style obedience classes have been proven to be the most effective method.
If the dog owner does not have the extra cash to spend on lessons, then they can at least teach their dog to fetch. With the internet, there are now a lot of free materials that instruct dog owners how to teach their pet to retrieve. Retrieving is fun for both the owner and dog; it is physical and it is a good mental exercise. Just be careful with the object or toy to use for fetching. Dog owners are advised not use heavy objects or choking hazards such as sticks. Also, dog owners should not throw the toy or object too high. The dog can get easily injured when the animal jumps and lands on its hind legs.
Remember, the more time you spend interacting with your dog, whether it be playtime, exercise or training, the more rewarding the experience of owning a pet will be for you and your family. So be creative and enjoy the experience.
Tags: dog arthritis, dog diet, dog exercise, dog weight loss
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