Keeping Your Dog Active

A pril may very well be one of Fido’s favorite months. It’s Active Dog Month! Our canine companions are all over the place when it comes to activity levels. Some pups are veritable whirlwinds of activity. Others? Not so much. No matter which end of that spectrum your dog falls onto, it’s important to keep him fit and active. This benefits him both physically and mentally. A Washington DC vet offers some tips on this below.

Consult Your Vet

How much exercise does your pet need? And what type of activity is right for him? These are important questions, and ones you’ll really want to look into. There is no one-size-fits-all answer here: it really just depends on Fido’s age, weight, breed, and health. Of course, you’ll also need to consider your furry pal’s personal preferences. Swimming is great for many dogs, but it obviously isn’t a great choice for a pooch that is afraid of the water!



Safety

Fido’s safety should always be first and foremost. Watch for signs of fatigue or overexertion. Panting and lagging behind are likely the first you’ll spot. If you know or suspect that your dog is tired, immediately give him some water and end the workout. 

It’s also important to avoid activities that aren’t right for your canine pal. For instance, brachycephalic pups should not be encouraged to run or swim, while large breeds shouldn’t jump or stand on their back legs. Ask your vet for specific advice.

Hyper Dog Hacks

Is your pooch more energetic than you are? One adorable way to tire Fido out is by getting him some automated toys, like a mechanical ball launcher. You can also hold a laser pointer for your furry buddy to chase. Or, just wear him out by playing Fetch . If you want to go a step further, stand at the top of a hill or staircase to toss your playful pet his toy. Fido will have to run uphill (or upstairs) which will give him a great cardio workout. If you have a treadmill, you may even be able to teach your dog to use it. Just put safety first: remove your pup’s collar first, and never leave him unsupervised on a treadmill.

Please do not hesitate to reach out if ever we can be of assistance. As your local Washington DC veterinary clinic, we’re dedicated to offering great care!