Fitness for You and Your Dog

By Sue Bream
 
Does your dog get enough exercise? Do you need to get more exercise? You and your pet can both live a healthier life by exercising together. What many of us forget is that while it is a well-known fact that humans need regular exercise, so do our dogs.

According to Robert Gillette, DVM, MS, “Fitness and exercise have the same beneficial effects in the dog as they do in the human.” These benefits are both physical and emotional/psychological. Many dogs, just like humans, are overweight. Diet and proper nutrition is only one factor in weight loss; exercise is the other.

Working together with your veterinarian to make sure that you exercise your dog safely is a good idea, according to Dr. Kelly at Elliott Bay Animal Hospital in Seattle. Dr. Kelly advises that before starting your dog on an exercise program, unless obviously fit, young, and healthy, it is a good idea to schedule a consultation. That way any unexpected muscular or skeletal disorders (such as hip dysplasia or arthritis), or other pre-existing conditions that could affect a dog’s ability to exercise safely, can be avoided.

It is another well-known fact that exercise has a huge impact on a person’s emotional well being, ranging from elevating mood, improving self-esteem, and even helping to control depression. Why would a dog be any different? Dogs get depressed, lonely, and bored. Exercising, especially with their owner, can help alleviate doggie boredom and the all-too often destructive behavior that coincides with boredom (chewing, barking, digging).

Since dogs come in all sizes and shapes there are aspects to consider. A small dog may have limitations as to how far they can go on their little legs when compared to a large dog. A small dog may also be challenged if the route involves climbing a lot of stairs.

Certain breeds are more energetic than others and typically need more exercise. Lack of motivation is another issue that people struggle with when it comes to exercise. Committing to exercising with your dog can be a huge help with the issue of motivation. Who can say “no” to the endearing looks that our dogs give us when they think that they are going out for a walk?

Another benefit of exercising with your dog is the strengthening of the bonds between you and your dog. After all, isn’t a major reason that we get a dog is to spend quality time with her? While professional dog-walkers are a huge asset to the working dog-owner, nothing can substitute for one-on-one time with owners. This bonding works both ways. You can derive great pleasure from going for a walk/jog with your dog. A dog’s natural curiosity and enthusiasm can be entertaining.

Some safety tips for exercising with your dog:
• Drink plenty of water. Dogs as well as humans are susceptible to heat stroke and dehydration.
• Start out your exercise program easy and build up to longer/harder walks or runs. It is only fair to the dog to give him the same opportunity to “get in better shape” gradually, especially if the dog is older (about seven years and older for smaller dogs and over five for large dogs), has health or bone/joint issues. If the dog is old, or has any health or bone/joint issues, it is wise to schedule a physical with your veterinarian, according to Dr. Kelly.
• Listen to your dog. If she is panting excessively or slowing down or even lying down, the dog is trying to tell you something. A lot of older dogs develop arthritis, in which case exercise is good, but it needs to be moderate (i.e., walking vs. running). Early signs of arthritis include stiffness, which improves as the dog becomes active. Frequent but brief walks keep joints running smoothly.
• Just like humans, dogs can injure back discs or knees. If your dog is obviously having difficulty moving his/her legs have them checked out immediately by a veterinarian. Limping isn’t necessarily always an indication of a serious problem, but is worth checking out before you push the dog on further.
• Respect your dog’s pace; don’t force him to walk/run too hard or too long, especially if it is hot outside.
• Wear reflective material (i.e., leash/collar) if exercising in the dark.
• Develop a routine.
• Keep it fun!

Throughout history, dogs have been considered “man’s best friend.” Who wouldn’t want their best friend to live a longer and healthier life?

Sue Bream has worked in the Seattle area as a personal fitness trainer for nine years. She is certified by ACSM. and ACE. Sue has created an outdoor exercise program that includes dogs and their owners.