Dog + Exercise = HAPPY :)

I'm fairly certain everyone knows dogs need exercise, but does your dog GET the appropriate amount of exercise?  What is appropriate will vary for the type of dog you have, big, small, athletic, old, short snout, long snout...but all types need some form of it.
I'd say most people take their dog for a walk to go potty then bring them back in.  That's not exercise, that's a potty break. Does walking to your bathroom multiple times a day keep you in shape?  Keep you healthy and drop your risk of heart disease?  You're saying NO to that, right?

Same with dogs, they need to get out, get their heart pumping a bit, explore & sniff, spend time with you and their dog friends on the way.  Bunnies running in your path and squirrels up trees stimulate their dog senses and make them happy.

Here are a few thing to keep in mind when giving your dog exercise:

• Dogs with short snouts or short legs may not be able to keep a quick pace for long and are not the best choices for a jogging buddy.  They will enjoy a brisk walk through a nice park or the neighborhood.
• Giant breeds and puppies shouldn't run for long periods of time. Short bursts of energy by playing fetch or a couple minutes of jogging at a time is a good option for them.  Give them time to rest, if the energy is still up keep the short bursts going with rest between.
• If your dog starts to drag behind you on a jog modify your pace.  Most dogs really want to be with you and want to go-go-go, if they are slowing down it really means they need a breather.
• If your dog has more energy than you try taking them out for 2 longer walks per day.  If you are a runner but they are a better runner, jog  to a near by park to let them play fetch while you recover then jog back together.
• Always give them time to warm up with a brisk walk before jogging or sprinting after a ball.  Give equal time for a cool down and always have water available.  Give them a nice rub down or brushing at the end and they will be very HAPPY!

Don't forget dogs are at risk for health and mental issue just like we are.  If they don't get appropriate exercise and diet you put them at risk for:

• heart disease
• liver disease
• diabetes
• anxiety
• depression :(  and more..

They are pack animals and want to be with their 'pack' (meaning you) so don't always leave them behind or ignore them.
If you are in the Chicago area check out Bow~Wow Boot Camp.  I created this program to help dog owners and dogs become healthy together and save time by not needing to hit the gym and walk the dog.  If you are not in the area I will soon have Bow~Wow workouts as part of my virtual training.
Be good to your pups, they think you are their best friend so live up to it :)