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Exercising your dog

08/04/2011

As every owner knows, your dog needs plenty of exercise, and some breeds need more than others. Your local park is the ideal location to take them in order to both allow them a walk or run, allow them to explore and find plenty to discover, in addition to giving them a social outlet where they can meet other dogs and people. Not only this, but you will also benefit yourself from the added exercise you will gain.

If you can, try to let your dog off their lead and allow them to run free. Dogs enjoy running more than any other activity, and you will see just how happy he or she is when they are free to race around where they like. Running will make sure your dog is in great shape, and is an all-round body exercise, not only maintaining their muscles but also benefitting their cardiovascular system.

Of course, if your dog shows aggressive tendencies towards other people or dogs, then you should be cautious when you allow them off their lead, if at all. Likewise, you should also make sure that no children are playing ball games nearby if you think your dog may cause them problems and attempt to join in or disrupt their play.

On the flipside, if you dog is particularly nervous around others, then you should be very careful to not frighten them by allowing other dogs to be too boisterous or playful when their attention is not wanted. You may cause long-term damage to a nervous dog if he is forced into a situation which he does not want to be in.

Not only is the park a place where your dog can explore and have fun, but the journey to and from the park is also a large part of the experience. If a park is within walking distance, then it is beneficial in terms of exercise, and if you live further away and have to drive there, the car journey is one that a dog will enjoy as well.

You should make visiting the park a regular event for your dog, and by ensuring he or she enjoys the experience as much as they can, you will improve the quality of their life ten-fold. A park is there for both dogs and their owners to enjoy.

 

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