Dogs need to exercise, too! Here are seven that you and your dog can perform together for both physical fitness and mental fitness
Ever seen or experienced a pet trying to join its human in a workout session? Well, we’re here to convince you to let them! Just as humans need to perform exercises to keep their brains sharp and their bodies functional, dogs do, too. With these in mind, here are seven activities you and your pet dog can do to hone your physical fitness and mental fitness together. Notably, these activities should be safe for a reasonably healthy animal who gets regular check-ups at the vet. If you’re concerned about doing anything strenuous with your beloved companion, get the opinion of a veterinarian!
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Slow walks
It goes without saying that dogs need to be walked daily, but it’s also important to note that these walks should be long enough to stimulate your dog’s natural instinct to explore. Why not take your dog along on your hot girl walks or hikes so both you and your beloved pet can grow mentally and physically healthier?
@maui_thegoldenpup Walking my dogs every day is a commitment but also a blessing 😭#goldenretriever #dogsoftiktok #dogwalking ♬ original sound – cj
Running
Likewise, dogs should get more chances to run as a way to burn off extra energy and keep healthy. If this exercise is new to your pet, we suggest starting off with short jogs and then gradually escalating to longer distances at higher speeds. Make sure to carry a bottle of water and a small container for them to drink from so they can stay hydrated as well!
@nala_the_needy_rottie HIS EARS WHEN HE RUNS 🥹 #rottweiler #running ♬ love nwantinti (ah ah ah) – CKay
Playing games
Playing games with your dog is an effective way to keep them active and happy. Consider the breed, age, and health condition of the dog when choosing a game, but some great examples include playing fetch with a frisbee or tug of war. If you have access to a tennis court, we also suggest taking your dog there so they have the space to retrieve the tennis ball you throw their way.
Swimming
If your dog takes well to water, we suggest taking your dog to a pet-friendly pool so they can exercise with you! And just as swimming is easy on the joints for humans, it’s beneficial for dogs as well. But keep in mind that you need to follow all necessary safety precautions to keep your dog safe and comfortable throughout the experience.
@adriabarich Replying to @heidi10025 what other pool questions do you guys have? #poolsafety #swimmingdog #pooltime @Clorox @nulopetfood ♬ Funny Background – Stefani
Yoga
Yes, the videos of dogs doing yoga with their humans are real and they’re safe for them to do! It’s another great way to bond with your beloved pet and keep them happy. You can lead them through dog-friendly poses that are natural to their movements, like the downward dog pose for example!
@nice.begin A dog that practices yoga with me every day 🧘♂️ 🐶 #Yoga #GoldenRetriever ♬ original sound – nice.begin
Agility course
This one will take some training to do, but agility courses are beneficial for dogs even if they don’t compete in anything as it’s a fun way to introduce more movement and stimulation into their lives. You can take them through pet obstacle courses in malls, for example, and let them socialize with the other friendly dogs there, too.
@mitre10nz Turn pool noodles into playtime with this DIY Dog Agility course. Guaranteed to tire out your pup #dogs #fyp #dogtok #agilitycourse #DIY #pettok #nz ♬ All the Fun We Had Together – Official Sound Studio
Puzzle toys
Lastly, we suggest getting puzzle toys for your dogs so they can get some mental stimulation even during your downtime or while you work. And since these can effectively engage their minds, dogs playing with them can also keep them from getting bored and chewing things they shouldn’t when they’re still young and untrained.
@dr.adamchristman52 Try this fun DIY puzzle game for your dog! Have you done this? #doggame #puzzletoyfordogs #dogenrichment #vettok #dachshundsoftiktok #dachshundtok #muffintin #weinerful #newjersey ♬ Funny Song – Funny Song Studio & Sounds Reel
