Page 318 - (DK) The Dog Encyclopedia

CARE AND TRAINING | EXERCISE

Exercise

All dogs need exercise to prevent them from becoming bored and frustrated.
Regular exercise and play will help your dog burn off excess energy and stay
calmer at home, as well as help you to build a close relationship with him.

WALKS AND GAMES If your dog is under-exercised, he can gain ■ In cold weather consider using a dog
Dogs require regular, daily exercise. For weight and develop behavioral problems— jacket for short-haired or elderly dogs to
puppies, this will help to build their strength he may become hyperactive and agitated help keep their muscles warm.
and reinforce learning, while for older dogs and find it difficult to settle. He may also ■ Don’t let your dog run on hard surfaces
gentle activity can help to prevent problems find alternative, destructive outlets for if he is not used to it because he could hurt
such as obesity and painful joints. his mental and physical energies, such the pads of his paws. Similarly, avoid hard
Dogs that are bred for hunting and as chewing up household furniture, surfaces if they are very hot or cold.
working have higher energy levels than barking excessively, or running off ■ Take your dog’s favorite toy or ball out
other breeds; two half-hour walks might be to look for entertainment. on walks with you to encourage fun and
plenty for a Yorkshire Terrier (see p.190) or Exercising your dog can be built into energetic games of chase. These games are
a Pug (see p.268), but a Dalmatian (see your daily activities: for example, taking also good mental exercise for your dog.
p.286) or Boxer (see p.90) might need him with you when you pick up your ■ Try to keep sessions at around the same
at least an hour-long walk or run plus children from school or walking him when time each day so that your dog gets used to
a play session. you run errands. Look for open areas where the routine and learns to rest in between.
Your dog’s need for exercise will change your dog can play, or allow him to exercise
through the course of his life. Young in your yard. The following tips will help to
puppies can be taken on short walks once keep him comfortable when exercising:
they have been inoculated. For adult dogs, ■ Watch that your dog does not get too
long walks and runs and energetic games are tired: have “warming-up” and “cooling-
ideal. Pregnant bitches, or sick or down” periods such as ten-minute slow
convalescent dogs, need only gentle exercise walks at each end of the exercise session.
for a short time. Older dogs appreciate ■ On hot days carry water with you and
shorter, gentle walks, but may still enjoy exercise when it is cooler—in the early
learning new games. morning or evening.

Fetch that!
For games of fetch, take toys with you rather than using
sticks. Playing “fetch” also encourages your dog to come
to you when called.

Family fun
Exercising your dog with the whole family is good for all
of you and will help all family members build a strong
bond with your pet.

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