Exercising a dog is vital for their well being and studies have shown that exercise is a common factor in the longevity of dogs. Below is the list of some of the things I recommended and do with my dogs, and things you want to watch for.

1. Hiking
Ideally off leash and preferably in varied terrain. If your dog needs to be on a lead, use a harness that does not restrict his movement.

2. Swimming
When choosing where to swim your dog, be aware of Blue-Green Algae toxicity and select your water source carefully. Also, watch for the amount of water your dog might ingest when swimming if he bites at the water or grabs at toys as Water Intoxication is a risk.

3. Underwater Treadmill
Exercise on an underwater treadmill can be better for your dog than swimming. It can take some of the pressure off your dog’s joints.

4. Stair Work
Your dog walking beside you up and down stairs is good for both of you! You will need to train this with your dog. You can play Stair Masters in Home School the Dog.
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5. Treadmill
Treadmills are great for exercise, but I strongly suggest that the treadmill you use is one that is specifically for dogs (I use DogTread). I only use the treadmill with my dogs walking or trotting, alternating between the two, with more walking than trotting.

6. Nose Work
You can start by hiding cookies under cushions and have your dog search for them. Chances are you might have a Nose Work class near you. Jane Book has a great online course “The Dog Scents”.

7. Fitness Stations
Train and use tricks to get your dog to use his body. You can introduce fitness equipment especially for dogs, but there are many DIY options for you with things that you will have at home.

8. Recallers Games
Recallers is the foundation of all we do with our dogs, and the games not only create a brilliant relationship with our dogs but exercise bodies and minds too!
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9. Retrieve
Retrieving is fun to teach your dog and my “Bring Me!” program is in both Recallers and Home School the Dog.

10. Cycling
Use an appropriate leash attachment and don’t hold your dog’s lead in your hand. Have your dog on the side away from traffic, and ideally avoid traffic totally. Make sure the surface you cycle on is suitable for your dog.

11. Dog Sports
There is a multitude of sports that you and your dog can enjoy together. You all know that I love training and competing in dog agility. My two online programs for agility are Handling360 and Agility Nation.
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12. Snowshoeing or Skijoring
These are great sports for winter if you live somewhere with snowfall. Make sure that the equipment you use is safe for your dog.

13. Dog Parks
Taking your dog to a dog park might be great, or it could also be an experience you would not want your dog to have, so be cautious before letting your dog into a dog park.

14. Day Care
Like dog parks, Day Care could be very beneficial or not a good experience for your dog. Do your research when choosing Doggie Day Care.

15. Technology
Remote feeders can help us create exercise games for our dogs. There are many brands available.

Make sure you start with exercise that your dog can manage and build it up gradually if your dog has led a more sedentary lifestyle, . Before starting any specific exercise program for your dog, he should be seen by a veterinarian to ensure there are no physical limitations. If your dog has been injured, consult with a qualified canine physical therapist or rehabilitation expert about your exercise routine.

*If you have not got your copy of "Forever Dog" by Rodney Habib and Dr Karen Becker, here's where you can check it out:
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*Amazon Links Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Susan only recommends products she uses herself, and all opinions expressed here are her own. The link above is an affiliate link that, at no additional cost to you, we may earn a small commission if you decide to buy from it. Thank you!

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Dogs That is brought to you by Susan Garrett and the Say Yes Dog Training Team.

Susan Garrett’s interest in animal behaviour started at the University of Guelph where she earned a Bachelor of Science majoring in Animal Science. Since then she has developed into a preeminent dog trainer and canine sports instructor and competitor. Susan is one of the most successful agility competitors of the last three decades. She has won multiple Gold Medals at National or World Championship events with every dog she has ever owned over the past 30 years.

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