How to exercise a puppy
Exercise is essential for every dog’s well-being, regardless of their size or breed. However, when it comes to puppies, it’s important to be mindful of their age and development. There are many things to consider when it comes to exercising a puppy, and ou can read more about it here.
Regular walks preferably on natural terrains are the best type of exercise for dogs. The varied terrain, including logs and stones, can help strengthen their muscles and overall body health. Dogs also tend to move around more when they have a canine companion or when walking with family or friends who can walk a little apart, allowing the dog to move back and forth.
One thing to keep in mind is the heat, especially during the summer. Hot asphalt roads can be harmful to a dog’s paws, which is another reason why I prefer forest walks.
Take it easy with the puppy
When it comes to puppies, it’s important to take it easy and not push them too hard. I usually recommend not even thinking about formal exercise routines until they reach twelve months of age. However, this doesn’t mean that they shouldn’t move at all. On the contrary, puppies’ bones and joints benefit from movement, so it’s more about taking longer breaks or going for regular walks instead of focusing on formal exercise.
With puppies, it is important to prioritize longer breaks and consistent walks, rather than rigorous exercise routines. However, this doesn’t mean you should neglect their physical activity altogether. A simple way to incorporate activity is to bring your puppy along for walks in the forest or to accompany you during short outings, such as visiting a friend’s home. These activities not only benefit their physical health, but also offer important opportunities for socialization and mental stimulation.
Make it simple
As I mentioned earlier, the notion of exercise should not be at the forefront of your mind when it comes to your puppy. Similarly, you need not fret about whether your puppy is moving excessively or not. Keep things simple and natural. If your puppy expresses an interest in accompanying you, take it with you on your walk. There’s no need to complicate matters any further.
If your puppy appears to tire out, you’ll be able to tell, and you may need to carry it for a while until it’s ready to walk again.
Over time, you’ll become more attuned to your puppy’s needs and preferences, and you’ll be able to gradually lengthen the walks accordingly. Avoid overthinking the concept of exercise or placing too much emphasis on it.