Top 5 Benefits of Daily Exercise for Dogs

Top 5 Benefits of Daily Exercise for Dogs

It’s the start of a new year and a new decade! Also, did you know that January is National Walk Your Pet Month?! That’s right, there’s a month for that. Most dogs need to be walked at least once each day, and some dogs may even require more. However, we know with our busy schedules, sometimes Fido doesn’t get in as long of a walk as he needs. Your dog is in need of frequent walks not only for his or her physical health, but for mental and emotional health reasons as well. Here is our list of the Top 5 Benefits of Daily Exercise for Dogs.

 

1.Helps With Weight Control 

Obesity is a major health issue in dogs. Obesity shortens a dog’s life and makes them more likely to develop disease. Frequent walking helps to regulate the digestive system and stabilizes weight gain. Increasing a dog’s activity burns calories, increases muscle development and helps dogs lose weight. Walking is one of the easiest ways you can help your obese dog lose excess fat.

 

2. Improves Socialization

A commonly overlooked benefit of taking your dog for a walk is that it improves your dogs’ socialization skills. When you take a dog for a walk, they are seeing other dogs, cats, people, cars, bicyclists, etc. This allows them to get used to all of this activity. If you have a dog that barks at or is scared of people, dogs or other elements, taking them on walks can help them become accustomed to them.

 

3. Increases Physical Health and Agility

Immobility is another common health problem. Joints, even old ones, need to work. People and pets get stiff when sedentary for too long, and keeping joints in motion improves their function. If your dog lays around all day, their muscles and joints are not getting the exercise that they need in order to maintain their strength and flexibility. When you take your dog for a walk, you are ensuring that the muscles and limbs in their body are getting worked. 

 

4. Increases Mental Health

A walk can make a dog very happy. Dogs are physical beings, and they need to move and just do things to release all the energy they have built up. They love to check out the sights and smells and will really look forward to spending time outdoors. Dogs that have the opportunity to play and exercise are generally happier, more emotionally stable and calmer than those who don’t.

 

5. Decreases Loneliness

A dog that doesn’t receive sufficient exercise can easily become bored or destructive. Daily walks can help minimize boredom and destructive behavior. If your dog whines, barks, howls, chews or destroys your house while you are away, they could be lonely or bored. Taking them on regular walks helps to cure this boredom and decrease these behaviors.

 

All in all, walking helps your dog to live a healthier, longer and happier life. After reading about Top 5 Benefits of Daily Exercise for Dogs, you may be wondering if you need a dog walker. Take a look at our 5 Signs You Need a Dog Walker! At Little White Dog Co, we offer 30 minute walks, 1 hour walks, as well as dog park visits. Make it a point to start the new year off right for you and your furry companion!

Previous

Next

Subscribe To Our Newsletter

Join our mailing list to receive the latest news and updates from Little White Dog Co.

You have Successfully Subscribed!

Share This