There's nothing better in life than taking two things we love and combining them. Peanut butter and bananas, for example. Or chocolate and pretzels..
That's what gave us the idea to come up with 10 great exercises we can do with our dog. Because there's almost nothing we love more than our pets and ... okay, if we're being totally honest we don't necessarily love exercise, but we at least appreciate it for what it's worth
Everything that exercise provides us with as people—better health, wellness, energy, agility—it provides our pets as well. And hey, if we give it a shot with our pet, maybe we'll even be more likely to get out there more frequently.
We promise you, try any of these 10 exercises on for size with your pooch (we've included a range of activities good for just about any level of physicality) and you will both feel much better afterwards—especially when you're rewarding yourself with those chocolate-covered pretzels...
1. Destination Walking
Walking the dog is a time-honored tradition of pet-owners, but what we love about this version is the extra fun it provides. Instead of taking Fido for a walk around the 'hood, why not pick out a fun destination to head to, instead? Perhaps that yogurt shop down the road that offers dog treats, or the lake that's a mile away. Try picking a different destination each week that extends your walk a bit. Even if you're walking at a slow pace, the benefits of walking including a stronger heart, lower blood pressure and more energy, among other things.
2. Disc Flying/Frisbee
We've all seen the photos—the amazing, weightless pooch catching a frisbee in mid-air? There's no reason that talented owner-pooch combo can't be you and your dog ... it will just take a little practice. What's even better about this exercise is that you can involve multiple people in the fun. We also love that this specific activity engages a dog's natural instinct to chase and stalk "prey".
3. Swimming
Especially for certain breeds—like Labs, Irish Setters, Golden Retrievers and Poodles—swimming comes naturally and would be something they would really enjoy. For humans, swimming is one of the best full-body exercises, working almost every major muscle group. After tackling swimming for a while, both you and your pooch will see an improvement in endurance and a strengthening of the heart and lungs. We also like that you can make this sport as challenging or as easy as you need to.
4. Doga
If you're a yogi at heart, you might want to consider tackling Doga with your furry best friend. Seriously, it's a real thing...bare with us. Dog yoga, or doga, is a practice that incorporates massage, stretching and relaxation for both pet and pet owner and it's gaining in popularity every day. Doga instructors are encouraged to attend training seminars, and often share techniques amongst themselves as well.
5. Agility Training/Obstacle Courses
We're not saying that you yourself need to run through an obstacle course to partake in agility training with your dog (although you certainly could, if you really wanted to), but dogs are naturals at running through obstacle courses with ladders, hurdles and tunnels, and while you run along next to your furry friend, shouting words of encouragement, you'll be getting your cardio in, as well.
6. Rollerblading
While we wouldn't necessarily suggest roller blading with your dog if you're just learning, with a little practice and training, leashed dogs can actually make great companions for rollerblading excursions. The goal, according to most experts, is to have your dog run next to you without pulling the leash. Be sure to practice this in a distraction-free environment while you're both first learning how to navigate your system or blading together.
7. Cycling
Cycling is a close cousin of rollerblading in terms of safety and training. Again, you shouldn't try cycling with your pet if you're just learning, or if you enjoy cycling at a pace that is well beyond what your dog's normal running pace is. However, if cycling is your exercise of choice, with a little training and practice, your dog can be a great companion for this sport as well. Just be sure to start out slow, and avoid any distractions (crowded parks, little kids) while you're both first getting used to the movements.
8. Squat Tease
Okay, if you can do this one, you've got a stunt artist on your hands! Arguably one of the harder exercises on the list, squat teases can be a great activity for both you and your dog, but it might take a bit of practice before you both catch on (But hey, that's half the fun, right?). Here's how it works. Stand with your legs shoulder-width apart while holding Fido's favorite toy. Then squat down, and as you rise, lift the toy above your head while your dog jumps to reach it. It'll take a while to work out the coordination, but once you guys get this down, trust us, you'll be the next party trick, for sure!
9. Dog Stairs
Taking the stairs are, perhaps, one of our least favorite activities, but also one of the most effective exercises. Plus, running stairs is easy, since it's free, and stairs can be found anywhere at a moment's notice to use. If you plan to take your dog with you, leash him and pick a long staircase, and try varying the way you step to make it more of a challenge. Take two steps at a time or run sideways, etc.
10. Kick the Soccer Ball
Take to the field with your pooch and have a heart-pounding soccer match. Your dog will love chasing you, and the ball, around the field, and you'll get in tons of cardio while running around. If you're on the lookout for a ball that can take the force of not only your awesome power kick but also Fido's forceful bite, try out the Boomer Ball, a staple in most zoos and circus'.refer these e-book for more A1dog - Training With Heart & Soul.
more articles >>> *Dog Training, 7 Reasons Why You Should Do It Yours...
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