Dog Exercise and Toy

One of the most important things you can do in caring for your dog or puppy is to provide it with the proper amount of exercise. Keeping your dog healthy is not only good for the dog, but it is your responsibility as the dog’s owner. Exercise is crucial to the development and well-being of the dog, and exercise is good for the owner, too.

Daily exercise, both physical and mental, is a must for your dog. Without sufficient exercise as an outlet, a dog may become overly lively inside, and worse, frustrated. A frustrated dog leads to destructive behavior, both inside the home as well as outside.

No matter what the size or breed, all dogs need exercise. The only difference is that some breeds need more exercise than others. A dog categorized within the Sporting group (Pointers, Retrievers, English and Irish Setters, for example) need a large amount of daily exercise to stay happy and healthy. These breeds don’t require anything fancy for dog toys; they are content fetching a ball or stick.

Smaller breeds like the Bichon Frise are content with a walk on the leash, a short romp in the yard or lying happily with a stuffed dog toy. Working dogs, such as the Siberian husky “need” to have a job to do and are bred to run tirelessly for hours. Siberians enjoy being strapped into a harness to pull sleds and people. Working dogs are highly intelligent and are easily bored. Dog games such as “Hide and Seek” and “Find the Treat” are excellent games to play with this type of overactive breed because it stimulates their mind and keeps them out of trouble.

Throwing a dog toy and having your dog retrieve it isn’t the only type of exercise you can give your dog. Any kind of positive play is beneficial to your dog or puppy. Toys of different shapes and sizes that they can toss, shake or pull can keep your dog healthy. Toys such as Kongs, with the treats stuffed inside the cavity, are great for keeping your dog mentally physically fit. These types of toys challenge the dog and keep them from becoming bored.

Remember that all dogs are eager to learn and ignoring its active nature causes behavioral problems. Whether a playful yard dog or an intense field dog, exercise allows the dog to relieve pent up energy and reduces stress.

No matter what dog toy is used, keep in mind that a safe play area and positive interaction is a requirement when exercising your dog.

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