Tag Archive for: dog activities

Dogs who do not receive enough exercise are more likely to act inappropriately. Bad habits include leaping on humans, biting things that aren’t meant to be chewed, digging holes, clawing, and barking or whining too much.

There are a few things you can do to make sure that your dog is exercised enough on a daily basis so that he or she is too worn out to act inappropriately. When you don’t feel up to taking your dog on regular walks, here are four alternatives you may try to assist your dog in burning off extra energy. 

 

Play games with your dogs

There are many different games you can play with your dog at home. One of our favorites is scent work. You can assist your dog to hone in on their inherent abilities by playing nose work games with them, and it’s also a simple method to keep them engaged. 

 

Nose work: In order to begin the game, you will need to ensure that your dog remains in the specified place. While he is watching you, walk to the other end of the room and put some food or his favorite toy there for him to find.  Before your dog starts looking for a hidden snack, you will create an association between certain words or phrases and behaviors that remind the dog of the food or a treat. Tell your dog to “find it” or “search” when you are ready to free him from his confinement. Be sure to praise your dog after each successful search round to reinforce the “search!” in his mind.  After a few demonstrations, he will be aware of what is expected of him.

 

You may go on to more difficult exercises after it seems that your dog understands the “find it” command. While your dog is in the remaining posture, move the reward or toy out of his line of sight so that you may retrieve it later.

 

During this particular search activity, the goal is to progressively expand to new places and distances as you go. When you are just getting started, it is best to confine the game to one or two rooms. If you are certain that your dog understands the “find it” command, it is time to go on to the next level, which consists of hiding objects about the home.

 

The following are some of the advantages of training your dog nose work:

 

  • Dogs like doing nose work since it’s both entertaining and rewarding.
  • Enjoyable activity that will provide your dog with increased brain stimulation
  • Building your dog’s confidence via nose work
  • Provides your dog with more opportunities for physical stimulation
  • It provides your dog with healthy activities to engage in.
  • Simple activities that can help you form a stronger relationship with your dog

 

Involve other owners and their dogstwo dogs playing in a field, one dog with tongue hanging out and the other prancing

Many dogs love to be in the company of other dogs and play with them (as long as they get along). They chase each other, jump, wrestle, and, in general, exhaust each other. Organize regular meetings with other owners or set up a regular date at the park to expand your dog’s circle of friends (and yours too). Just make sure that you follow the safety and etiquette rules for  your dog park.

 

Have your dog play in the grass

If you have a garden or park near your home, replace the dog walk with a play session. Most dogs love to play fetch, so why not start to fetch training? A ball launcher can make the game more fun for your dog and less tiring for you, as it allows you to shoot the ball much farther with almost no effort, much to the delight of your dog (and your arms).

 

Agility Dog Equipment is another way to get your dog to exercise and mentally stimulate him. You can build a path using objects you find at home, in the garage, or in DIY stores: an old hula hoop can become a ring to jump into, plastic pipes can be assembled to become obstacles, while pallets can be transformed into ramps or platforms. You can also purchase tunnels, plastic cones, or other gear at pet stores to complete your route. Many dogs, like the White husky, will definitely enjoy playing on the grass. 

 

Teach new commands

What commands does your dog know? 

“Sit” is one of the most fundamental commands to teach your dog, teaching them to sit is a terrific starting point. Dogs who aren’t taught the “Sit” command are going to be much more difficult to handle and will have a more restless demeanor than dogs that do know this easy order. In addition, teaching your dog the “Sit” command will prepare them for more difficult commands such as “Stay” and “Come.”  

 

The word “come” is another vital command for you to teach your dog and should be practiced often. This order is especially useful for those occasions if you find yourself unable to maintain your grasp on the leash. It can be taught easily and will be of great use in preventing mischief with your dog.

 

“Stay” is a command that is very helpful in preventing your dog from putting himself in harm’s way. With the command “stay” you can train your dog to ignore one object in exchange for a higher reward which is essential.

 

In conclusion

Walking your dog is great exercise and bonding for both of you, but it can be monotonous and occasionally it is good to get out of the usual routine. Sometimes , you might not be free to go for a walk or you need an alternative to get your dog exercise without going for a walk, I hope you find the tips in this article helpful.

Guest Author: Pet expert Emma has spent 12 years following her passion for animals as a writer and editor in the pet industry. Her expertise includes dog and cat health, care, nutrition, feeding, grooming, behavior, and training.

 

woman sitting on purple yoga mat doing prayer pose with beagle watching

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Yoga is one of the most popular meditation practices around the world. It’s a spiritual discipline that aims to bring harmony between the body and mind, and it comes with benefits that cover not just physical but mental wellbeing. People of all ages and fitness levels can practice yoga. Even if you’re unsure where to begin, there’s no need to worry since there are several yoga influencers online to help you get on track.

But have you ever thought of doing yoga with your furry best friend? Exercise is said to increase serotonin, but imagine how much better your mood would be if you’re doing it with your adorable pupper. This blog will tell you how to get into this fun but relaxing activity for you and your pet dog.

What is Doga?

Doga (cleverly combining “dog” and “yoga”) started in the US in 2001, created by actress Suzi Teitelman. The name is self-explanatory – a form of yoga specifically designed for dogs and their owners to spend quality time through exercise. You might have noticed that yoga poses involve quite a lot of stretching, most of which, resemble the stretching movements of animals. 

 

You can try doga with any type of dog, and while there are wellness centers offering these trendy classes, you also have the option of doing this at home.

What are the benefits of Doga?

There’s an array of health benefits from doing yoga alone. But doing it with your pet can do a ton of good for your furry companion too. 

 

For you:

 

According to the University of Rochester Medical Center’s Health Encyclopedia, yoga can help improve various health conditions like poor blood circulation, high blood pressure, arthritis, osteoporosis, lower back pain, and even help reduce tension, stress, or depression.

 

Apart from that, yoga can also:

  • Regulate your heart health.
  • Improve balance, coordination, and posture.
  • Enhance flexibility and range of motion.
  • Increase stamina and strength.
  • And believe it or not, some specific yoga routines can improve skin health, giving you firm and radiant-looking skin.

 

And ladies, you can certainly do yoga even when on your period. Yoga exercises can help alleviate menstrual cramps, and also help clear your mind when experiencing period brain fog. Just make sure you’re always ready with your workout essentials such as period underwear, extra towels, a change of clothes, water bottles, etc. 

 

Remember, you should stay attuned to your body, and it’s at your discretion to stop if an exercise doesn’t feel right for you.

 

For your pet:

 

Dogs are naturally intelligent animals. Often, they sense their human’s stress and anxiety. Which, in turn, can affect their behavior and cause them to be distressed. Doga allows them to develop control over their impulse, ease their anxiousness, and even help manage hyperactivity.

 

In addition:

  • Doga is a great exercise if your dog is overweight.
  • Doga teaches your pup to trust you more.
  • Gentle stretching poses in doga can be good therapy for dogs recovering from injuries.
  • Like other physical activities, doga improves your dog’s blood circulation. 
  • Your pupper can meet and socialize with other dogs.

How to Start Doing Doga

Here are a few things to keep in mind if you’re interested in doing yoga with your dog:

Choose a yoga routine appropriate for your dog’s age, size, and fitness level.

For instance, a young, small dog may not be able to handle a more advanced routine, while an older, larger dog may need a more gentle approach. Ultimately, the best routine for your dog is one that is safe and comfortable for them, so be sure to consult with your veterinarian or a certified yoga instructor before getting started.

Don’t forget to warm up before starting your yoga session, and be sure to cool down and stretch afterward.

Warming up helps increase your heart rate and prepare your muscles for the workout. On the other hand, cooling down helps reduce your heart rate and prevents your muscles from becoming stiff. Stretching helps to lengthen your muscles and improve your flexibility.

Have patience, especially if your dog is new to it. 

Much like pet training, doga can take time and dedication. It’s completely normal for dogs to not be used to the poses and flows immediately. Never force them, and let them adjust to it at their own pace. 

Most importantly, have fun and enjoy the bonding experience with your furry best friend! Go and make the most out of it!

 

Which basic Doga poses can you try?

When doing yoga with your dog, it’s a good idea to start with basic poses before moving on to more advanced ones. Here are a few examples:

The Downward Facing Dog 

This posture resembles a dog stretching on its hind legs extending upward, with the head and forelegs facing downward. It starts in a full push-up position before placing your hands on the ground for support, delicately shifting your weight forward until you form an inverted V with the top of your head to your legs. Most dogs tend to observe what their owners are doing first before eventually mimicking the poses. 

The Chair Pose

Have your dog sit on their hind legs while you support their torso from behind. Then, slowly raise their front paws in the air and breathe deeply. Easy-peasy, right?

The Heart-to-Hound Mudra

First, sit with your dog’s back facing you. Place your right hand on your dog’s heart, and your left hand on your heart. Close your eyes and begin breathing slowly and deeply. This exercise helps soothe you and your dog and is said to expel negative energy. 

Conclusion

Doing yoga improves your and your dear pupper’s overall wellness, and makes them feel more connected to you. If you haven’t tried it, then what are you waiting for? Contact the nearest yoga centers near you to find out more about doga sessions!

Contributing Author: Sophia Young recently quit a non-writing job to finally be able to tell stories and paint the world through her words. She loves talking about fashion and weddings and travel, but she can totally go from fashion guru to your friendly neighborhood cat lady with mean budgeting skills and home tips real quick.

black and tan dachshund wearing sunglasses

Photo by Mel Elías on Unsplash

Summer has arrived and apart from it being a great time for you to relax, it’s also the perfect time to enjoy the outdoors with your canine BFF. Whether you form a twosome with your dog or get the entire family involved, and regardless of your best buddy’s breed, there are lots of summer activities to enjoy that are canine-inclusive. Here are our favorite 8, but keep in mind that there are lots more.

Go Hiking

Look for a dog-friendly hiking trail, especially in the hills or mountains where both you and your pup can get some respite from the heat. Trails will allow your dog to get involved in some serious exploring and canine investigation.

Go to the Beach or a Swim

If you reside where there’s a dog-friendly beach nearby, playing on the shore will delight your four-legged companion. Bring along a ball or frisbee and beach towel in case your pup decides to go for a swim

Do take care about the temperature of sand with those delicate paws, and always look for some shade, even a beach umbrella, so that your dog can rest out of the sun. 

You can also opt to play in a pool, but make sure your dog has a life vest and never leave your dog in the water unsupervised. In a best-case scenario, your dog should be able to enter and exit the pool by himself. If not, pay attention to any signs of distress.

Go Boating

If you own a boat or have access to one, taking the pooch along can make for a fun afternoon. Even if your dog is a swimmer, it’s still recommended that your dog wear a doggy life vest while out on the water.

Visit a State Park 

State parks are underrated and don’t get the attention they deserve. Most state parks will feature dog-friendly trails or areas, so your pup can enjoy the great outdoors at their finest.

Try Biking

If you have a young energetic breed or a dog that is used to jogging with you, consider a bike ride with a hands-free leash. If your dog is a smaller breed, or older, consider using a bike basket or a bike stroller and treat your dog to a ride around the area.

Get a Pet Pool and Sprinklers

Live in the city and can’t get away? Set up a pet pool in your yard specially designed for dogs, or even a children’s pool. Pet pools are generally foldable and portable with easy drainage and non-slip surfaces. Make sure you throw in lots of bobbing toys to play with. 

You can also let your dog have some fun by setting up yard sprinklers and playing with your pup amid all that cooling water.

Take a Fruit Break

There’s nothing more refreshing than fresh cool fruit on a hot summer day for both you and your furry friend. Dogs can safely enjoy watermelon, blueberries, strawberries, mangos without the pits and skins, pineapple without the skin, apples de-cored and de-seeded, pears de-cored and de-seeded, and even a small portion of banana (it’s high in sugar). Not only will this be a refreshing treat, but your pup will benefit from the vitamin and mineral intake. 

Organize a Doggy Spa Day

Organize a visit to your dog’s groomer. It’s much easier for dogs to get dirtier in summer. Your dog will probably gradually be losing his or her winter coat, so a trip to get the fur trimmed is perfectly timed. 

Removing old hair will aid your dog in managing the heat, as well as protect fur from matting in the water or collecting debris on a trail. While there, have nails checked for trimming and get the teeth brushed. If you are brave and up to the task, you can do hands-on grooming at home!

Tips When Including Your Dog in Activities

  • Check that wherever you decide to go, whether a park, a beach, or elsewhere, is dog-friendly so you won’t have any trouble entering with your pup.
  • Choose an activity that mirrors the activity level of your dog. If your dog is young, energetic, or involved in activities that require prolonged physical expenditure, you can opt for a long hike. If, however, your pooch is used to short walks, keep that in mind when selecting and planning your activities.
  • If the weather is hot, take enough water along for everyone involved including your pup, and a collapsible bowl.
  • A balanced and healthy diet like those offered by Timberwolf Organics will be essential to help repair sore muscles after every adventure. This becomes even more crucial to keep your dog in top condition during the hot weather.
  • Before adventuring along trails make sure the pooch has up-to-date flea and tick treatments as well as all necessary vaccines.

Now, you’ve waited an entire year for summer to return, so enjoy the season with your furry best buddy. Your dog will thank you for it.

 

Guest Author: Emila is a freelance journalist and blogger with a love for those with four legs! She has grown up around animals and pets and wants to use her knowledge on pet behavior, training and lifestyle tips to help other pet parents live the best possible life with their furry friend. 

Just like people, dogs need regular exercise to stay healthy and keeping your dog active is important for both their physical and mental health. April is Canine Fitness Month, so there’s no better time to grab your sneakers and a leash and get out there with your pup!

black lab puppy standing in grass with front leg resting on blue ball

Benefits of Exercise

Exercise is essential to all dogs, regardless of size, age, or breed. If you’re just starting out, be sure to build up your exercise routine slowly as both you and your dog build your endurance. Some of the benefits of exercise include:

  • Maintaining a healthy weight and body condition helps your dog live longer and may help prevent diabetes and weigh-related joint problems
    • Check with your veterinarian to make sure your dog doesn’t have any underlying conditions prior to beginning an exercise routine and to discuss what kind and how much exercise would be beneficial to your dog
  • Exercise in moderation is good for older dogs to help keep their joints and muscles intact and functional
    • If your senior pup has arthritis or is recovering from an injury, you may need to shorten your exercise or make it less strenuous
  • Exercise can help all dogs, but especially young dogs, reduce boredom, anxiety, and stress, which can lead to destructive or reactive behaviors

Exercising your dog can also provide you with some great benefits including:

  • Strengthening your bond with your pet
  • Boosting your mood and lowering your blood pressure
  • Motivating you to continue to exercising regularly and stay healthy

Exercise Ideas

 

black lab in bright green collar standing on hind legs to sniff flowers on a stone wall

Get walking

This is probably the easiest way to start exercising your pup. You don’t need anything but a pair of comfy shoes and a leash! Take your pup around the neighborhood for some new smells for them and some fresh air for you while getting your bodies moving.

 

Go to the dog park

If your dog is friendly and has good recall a dog park can be an excellent addition to your pup’s exercise routine. Just make sure you keep an eye on your dog so that interactions stay fun and not stressful. For more tips on how to keep your dog safe and happy at the dog park, read our blog post here.

Go for a hikeblack lab running through shallow water on rocky shoreline with lake in the

Taking your pup hiking can be fun for both of you! You both get new sights and smells from your regular neighborhood walks and tromping around in nature is both mentally and physically rewarding.

Take your pup swimming

Swimming is a great way to exercise your dog when it’s hot outside! Did you know that 4 minutes of swimming is the same as one mile of running for dogs in terms of calories burned? Swimming is gentle on your dog’s joints, making it a great way to exercise an older dog or a dog recovering from an injury. Just be sure to never leave your pup near the water unattended.

Try a new activity like agility or dock divingblack lab puppy in metal tunnel outside

There are so many great activities that you can do with your dog! FitPaws USA, who founded Canine Fitness Month, has some great ideas on fun activities to do with your pup, like hide and seek, fetch, obstacle courses, or even dog yoga. Check out some of their videos here. Just a heads up, you may need some extra supplies for those videos but you can make your own agility equipment if you’re interested.

If you want a more organized activity, many training facilities provide agility training classes on real equipment or scent tracking and lure coursing classes for those dogs more interested in “prey” than in obstacles. Depending on where you live you may even find a dock diving facility for those pups that you just can’t keep out of the water!

Don’t have time to get those walks in with your dog? Check out our services to schedule a dog walk with our amazing pet sitters!