Keeping Your Dog in Shape

Did you know that October 11th is Pet Obesity Day? Of course, given the chance, Fido would likely insist that this means he should be given lots of bacon and other fattening treats, but that isn’t quite the case. While chubby dogs are undeniably cute, they are unfortunately also at risk of developing some very serious health issues, such as heart disease and diabetes. But how do you keep a dog in shape? Read on for some tips from a Pickerington, OH vet.

Walks

Even if Fido has a yard to patrol and chase squirrels around in, he’ll still benefit from daily walks. Walking will not only help your canine friend stay in good physical shape, it will also offer him mental stimulation, which can be a great way to beat the bored-doggy blues.

Swimming

Although swimming isn’t necessarily the right option for every dog, it can be a wonderful way to help your furry buddy stay active. Older dogs and large breeds often do great with swimming, because it is easy on their bones and joints. Just be sure to put Fido’s safety first: never leave him unattended near water.

Indoor Exercise

When it’s cold or rainy out, you may want to keep Fido’s walks short and sweet. Keep your pooch moving indoors by playing fun games like Fetch. Just pick an area without a lot of breakable objects. Stair runs are also a good option.

Running/Hiking

While some pooches make great trail buddies, running and hiking aren’t suitable for every dog. For instance, brachycephalic pups, which are those pooches with the adorable pushed-in faces, like pugs, lose their breath easily, and aren’t good jogging partners. Ask your vet before taking your dog running or hiking. If you get the green light, build Fido’s endurance up slowly. Always bring plenty of water, and take care not to overexert your pet.

Tips

Our canine pals all have their own exercise requirements. Some pups need at least 30 minutes of vigorous exercise a day, while others only require a short walk. Your dog’s age, weight, breed, and overall health will all play important roles when it comes to determining exactly what his needs are. Ask your vet for specific advice.

Do you have questions or concerns about your dog’s health or care? Contact us, your Pickerington, OH pet clinic, today. We are always here to help!