A dog that is happy and healthy has a wagging tail, a playful bark, and runs quickly across the park. Like people, dogs do best when they are busy. Exercise is not only a good way to get rid of extra energy, but it is also very good for their health, mental health, and even the bond you have with them. In a world where busy schedules can make pets less active, it’s more important than ever to know how to get your dog to be more active.

The Good Things About Having a Dog That Is Active

Let’s talk about the clear benefits of having a dog that is always active before we get into the “how-to.” Exercising regularly helps you stay at a healthy weight, which lowers your risk of getting diabetes, joint pain, and heart disease, all of which are linked to being overweight. It makes their bones and muscles stronger, helps their hearts, and boosts their immune systems.

Exercise is a great way to get rid of stress and boredom. If a dog has too much energy, it is more likely to bark too much, chew on furniture, or dig. Exercise, especially when it also gets your mind going, helps your body make endorphins, which lowers stress and makes you feel calm and happy. It also lets dogs meet new people, which is good for their mental health. Lastly, doing things together helps people and animals get to know each other better and trust each other more.

Finding Out What Your Dog Needs

Every dog needs a different amount of exercise. A Basset Hound that is more laid back will need less exercise than a Border Collie that has a lot of energy. Consider your dog’s age, breed, and overall health. Puppies are full of energy, but they need to play for short periods of time often to keep their joints safe as they grow. Swimming or going for slow walks are examples of gentle activities that might help older dogs with joint pain. You should always have a vet check your dog’s exercise plan if they are sick. A good rule of thumb is to make your dog do moderate-intensity exercise for at least 30 minutes to 2 hours every day, broken up into several sessions, depending on what your dog needs.

How to Make Exercise a Part of Your Daily Life

It’s important to be consistent. A daily schedule for your dog can help them know what to expect and even lower their stress. Try to walk at the same time every day, and don’t forget to play.

1. The Daily Walk: It’s Not Just a Bathroom Break

Daily walks are great for going to the bathroom, but they do a lot more than that. To keep your dog from getting bored, switch up the paths you take. Let them sniff and look around; this “nose work” is great for their brains. You could try going on longer walks on the weekends or trying out new trails. If your dog has a lot of energy, adding a quick jog or run can be good for them. But you should always slowly build up their stamina.

2. Power-Up Playtime: Things to Do That Are Fun

Set aside time every day for active play in addition to walks.

Fetch: A classic for a reason! Fetch is a great way to get a quick boost of energy. Try out different toys, such as balls, frisbees, or even a soft toy that makes noise.

Tug-of-War is a great way to get your dog to use both its body and mind. To stop resource guarding, all you have to do is give your dog commands like “drop it.”

Hide-and-Seek: Tell your dog to find their favorite toy or treat that you have hidden in different parts of the house or yard. This activity gets you up and moving and helps you think through problems.

Bubbles: Many dogs are surprisingly interested in bubbles and will chase and jump on them just for fun. Look for bubble solutions that are safe for pets.

Flirt Pole: A flirt pole is a stick with a rope and a lure that looks like an animal that is prey. It can help you get a lot of exercise in a small area.

3. Check out dog sports and classes

If your dog has a lot of energy or you want to try something new, dog sports might be a good idea:

On an obstacle course, dogs run through tunnels, weave through poles, and jump over hurdles. It does amazing things for your mind and body.

In a team relay race, dogs jump over hurdles and pick up a tennis ball from a box.

Dock diving is when dogs jump off a dock into a pool of water and try to go as far or as high as they can.

Canicross and bikejoring are fun things for dogs that like to be active. Your dog pulls you along while you run in canicross, and while you ride in bikejoring.

Even if you don’t plan to compete, local dog training centers often have beginner classes that are a great way to teach your dog new things and use up their energy.