5 tips that will help you and your dog get into a healthy, new-year routine!
Is it time to get your dog in shape or could you both do with a little more “outdoor time”? Because like regular people, dogs can run into big health issues when their weight creeps up…and activity slips away.
So if you think your dog is packing on a little "holiday weight," it's a great time to get them started on a physical activity routine!
Firstly, if you’re unsure…consult your vet for advice on what you think your dog may be capable of doing regarding a regular exercise routine.
It’s best not to assume how fit they are as you could tire them out without meaning to, simply because you underestimated their capabilities.
1. First and foremost, get a professional opinion.
Discover how can your vet help you get started?
Of course, exercise varies across different breeds and sizes of dog - a French Bulldog won’t require the same exertion as that of an Irish Setter.
Your vet will help you with what type and level of exercise that's right for your dog - a dog too young, old or unfit could cause them problems. Don’t push them too hard, they might turn out to be less fit than you thought.
Remember, there is such a thing as too much exercise for your dog.
So if you’re the type to run with your dog and workout together, be aware of your pet’s limitations by consulting a vet to ensure you’re not working them too hard, and they are fully examined before detailing an exercise program for them.
Hot and cold weather can be dangerous too when exercising with your pooch, so start slow and build up their fitness.
2. How much and what kind of physical exercise is your dog already getting?
The first thing we should be looking at is whether your dog is out playing, walking & running…
Or are they laying around, curled up on the sofa with you?
And did you know, dogs who regularly exercise benefit from a higher metabolism, smaller appetite, better muscle tone, and even better temperature regulation?
Plus, if your dog has behavioural issues, it could be down to boredom or restlessness…
This often explains their instinct to dig, herd, retrieve or hunt kicks in. So some exercise could help more than their physical wellbeing, but their mental health, too.
3. How should you exercise your dog?
That is to say, what kind of exercise routine for your dog would be suitable? It doesn’t have to be anything super imaginative, and there’s no shortage of ideas, take these for example:
- Walking or running with you
- Playing fetch with a ball
- Swimming in safe waters
- Playing with other pets in the park
- Train them to perform tricks for healthy treats.
See, that was easy! What’s more, some of these are great tips to get your dog to play on their own, too.
4. A workout plan for your dog.
Your dog will never make it to the gym with you, there’s etiquette to think of, so it’s up to you to put a plan together. Just 15-20mins per day of brisk walking and a little play is all they need (especially if you’re starting out).
Encourage a neighbour’s dog too, then it’s even easier to feel motivated (for you both)! If you’ve really got no time, get a recommended dog walker in your local area - this is a wise investment if you don’t have the time to take them out as much as you’d like to.
TIP: Don’t forget a few treats before you head out - e.g. fruit & vegetable slices or rice cake pieces - not scraps. It’s important to keep your dog motivated, that way you’ll both enjoy that special bond.
5. Socialise your dog.
As part of your dog's new fitness routine, it's important to keep them socialised - introducing her to other people, dogs and animals outside of the immediate home environment.
It's even better for your dog to become social from a younger age - if they're not scared or you sense they don't feel threatened it will get them out the house more willingly.
Walking around the neighbourhood and dog parks are great ways of introducing them to people and dogs.
So there are some healthy, simple tips to help you get started. But aside from exercise, we must ensure our little friends are getting the very best nutrition to help keep their joints and hips flexible and supple.
That’s where responsible owners are seeing the incredible benefits of Bouncy Bones - a natural, clean joint support supplement that delivers incredible, daily nutrients to their joints.
Ingredients like -
Glucosamine, for healthy cartilage…
Chondroitin, for joint cushioning support…
MSM, for cartilage formation free radical neutralisation…
Vitamin C, for added wellness and vitality…
Green-Lipped Mussels, for high-dose Omega-3’s…
Hyaluronic Acid, to support connective tissue and support mobility…
Curcumin, to support joint function and long-term joint stiffness…
Beta Glucans, to team up with Omega’s to enhance their effectiveness.
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Linda says “It really does work” -
We have tried numerous other supplements and anti-inflammatory medicines with little or no effect, but Bouncy Bones really has helped tremendously. My old boy is back to going out again and is really enjoying his walks. Considering it was painful just to watch him try to get up, it is really amazing.
Would definitely recommend it!