How to keep your dog fit and healthy
Source: twodolla
A dog is a naturally active and athletic animal. He or she needs to have the opportunity to stay fit and healthy, which as the owner, is your responsibility to provide. Finding ways to keep your dog healthy and in great physical shape can include a lot of different creative options, rather than just walking around the block or the occasional stroll in the country.
Eating Right
Just like people, dogs can develop unhealthy eating habits. However, unlike people, dogs do not have access to everything in the cupboard or the store. They only eat what you provide, or what you allow them access to. By feeding a holistic, natural food that includes bones, meat, high quality dog food and a limited number of healthy snacks, your dog will stay within his or her recommended weight limit.
Exercise When You Are Away
There are lots of dogs that are naturally self-motivated to exercise. They will run in the garden while you are at work, pace through the house or play with a companion pet until you get home. On the other hand, there are just as many dogs that laze around on the couch waiting to hear your key in the door.
Providing options to help the dog stay active when he or she is alone in the house will help with overall fitness. One option is a treat dispensing toy. These toys may move through battery power, or they can be moved by the dog. Treats inside will fall out when the toy is moved, encouraging the dog to stay active and playing. Balls, ropes and other safe chew toys as well as meaty bones are a good option for keeping the dog active and content while you are gone.
Structured Exercise
A jog, walk, hike or romp every day is important for your dog. Each specific breed or mixed breed dog will have different energy requirements based on their energy level, age and overall fitness level. All dogs need some type of structured daily exercise, at a moderate to intense level. If you are bored with walking you can include a swim, high intensity game of fetch, obedience or agility training or time at the dog park with a friendly bunch of active dogs.
Adding exercise to your dog's life should include a lot of variety and something that is fun and enjoyable for you both. By combining exercise with healthy eating, your dog will stay fit, happy and in great physical shape.
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