Dogs are born to work for a living. They’ve worked alongside us for thousands of years, and most are bred for a particular purpose, like hunting, herding livestock or providing protection. Dogs’ wild relatives spend most of their waking hours scavenging and hunting for food, caring for offspring, defending territory and playing with each other. They lead busy, complex lives, interacting socially and solving simple problems necessary for their survival. The most common job for our companion dogs today, however, is Couch Potato! They no longer have to earn their keep and instead have to adjust to our more sedentary lifestyles. They get their food for free in a bowl and are often confined, alone and inactive, for most of the day. This lack of purpose leaves dogs no outlet for their naturally active tendencies — physical and mental — and it contributes to the development of behavior problems. Problems That Result from Lack of Exercise and Play: Dogs can be like young children. If you don’t give them something constructive to do with their energy, they’ll find something to do on their own — and you may not like it! Some of the most common behavior problems seen in dogs who don’t get enough exercise and play are: • Destructive chewing, digging or scratching • Investigative behaviors, like garbage raiding • Hyperactivity, excitability and night-time activity • Unruliness, knocking over furniture and jumping up on people • Excessive predatory and social play • Play biting and rough play • Attention-getting behaviors like barking and whining Benefits of Exercise and Play: The good news is that keeping your dog healthy, happy and out of trouble with daily exercise is a lot of fun and provides many benefits, including: • Helps to reduce or eliminate the common behavior problems listed above, such as digging, excessive barking, chewing and hyperactivity • Helps to keep dogs healthy, agile and limber • Helps to reduce digestive problems and constipation • Helps timid or fearful dogs build confidence and trust • Helps dogs feel sleepy, rather than restless, at bedtime or when you’re relaxing ... or your neighbours • Helps to keep dogs’ weight under control Long story short - just a well-excercised dog is a healthy, happy and out of trouble one! With today’s more sedentary lifestyles, dog parents are often challenged to find enough outlets for their pets’ considerable natural energy. Dogs are more athletic than us. But take heart — there are a variety of ways to exercise your dog, from activities that don’t demand much energy on your part to activities that exercise both you and your dog. Dogs’ need for exercise varies depending on their age, size, breed and individual traits. Most dogs benefit enormously from daily aerobic exercise (exercise that makes them pant, like fetch, tug, running and swimming), as well as at least one half-hour walk. Giving them not enough excercise is kind of animal cruelty!
Posted on: Fri, 31 Oct 2014 10:56:42 +0000
Trending Topics
Recently Viewed Topics
© 2015