Three Outdoor Exercises That Benefit Both You and Your Dog!

These fun exercise activities increase health and wellness for you and your pet.

We all know that daily exercise and fitness are essential for our overall health and well being. Not only does it help us maintain our weight and energy, but exercise also triggers the production of endorphins―our bodies natural “happy” stimulates. However, knowing all of the benefits and positive effects of daily fitness does not make it any more fun.

Working out can be a pain, especially for those who have trouble getting motivated. While having an exercise partner can definitely improve many activities, it can also be impossible to try and arrange a time that both of you are available to work out. Before you know it, the lack of a buddy becomes just one more reason to put off your workout till another day.

However, what many dog owners tend to overlook is the fact that they have an excited, energetic workout partner running around right under their own roof.

Pets need daily exercise and fitness just as much, if not more, than people do. This is because much of their mental and physical well being comes from participating in physical activities such as walking, playing and exploring the outdoors. Getting outside and discovering different scenery that stimulates their senses is also one of the key ways that dogs develop mentally.

Daily exercise for your pet is also important for their weight loss control. Pairing your overweight dogs weight loss diet with frequent exercise and activity can do wonders for their overall health and wellness. Dog weight control is essential if you want to keep your pet happy and health well into their senior years.

Another great reason to exercise with your pet is the fact that they are wonderful motivators. Think about it―if your furry friend is expecting to go on a walk or a run at the same time every day, you are much more likely to get out there are exercise with them. However, if you were just planning on walking by yourself, you would be much more willing to skip out if you didn’t feel like it, or if you weren’t feeling well that day.

Dogs are also great companions for exploring new exercises and activities that you normally wouldn’t have tried if you were by yourself. For example, if you and your pet are bored of your daily walks around the block, try adding a few of these fun activities into your routine:

• Swimming: Many dogs love swimming and playing in the water, especially older dogs who may experience too much pain in their joints from running around on pavement. If you have a pool or live near a lake, consider taking your dog out for a morning swim. Let them get used to the water and help them get started with their paddling if they are aren’t used to it. Before you know it, your dog will be doing laps right beside you.
• Hiking: Dogs are natural explorers and love sticking their noses into new smells and sites. Therefore, many dogs love to go on hikes or long walks through nature trails. Try short, local trails in your area at first, then once you and your pet have built up your stamina, try longer trails. Just remember to keep them on a leash―all it takes is one glimpse of a squirrel or deer for them to go running off.
• Fetch: Your pets aren’t the only ones who can benefit from fetch. There are several ways in which you can mix up this doggie favorite to get some exercise yourself. For instance, each time you throw the stick or ball for your pet, run to a different location. Not only will give you a nice cardio workout, but it will also give your pet some mental stimulation as they try and find you.

Exercising with your dog can be a win-win situation for your overall mind, body and spirit. Not only will your health benefit from some of these fun outdoor activities, but exercising and playing with your dog will also help to strengthen your bond. They say that a dog is a man’s best friend, but what many people may not realize is they also make one of the best workout buddies that you will find.

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