Taking Your Dog For A Run

Besides getting in better cardiovascular and physical shape, walking or running with your dog can also help:

• Boost your mood
• Lower your blood pressure
• Strengthen your bond with your pet
• Keep you motivated to exercise regularly (your dog will bug you to stay on your routine!
• What your dog gets out of the deal  

 

Running or walking with your dog isn’t just good for you; it’s also good for your dog.

Exercising keeps his heart, lungs, joints, digestive and circulatory systems healthy. It helps him control weight and expend energy. If you’ve ever noticed your dog racing extra fast around your house or yard (sometimes referred to as zooming), you’ve witnessed him trying to burn up excess energy.

Regular exercise can also keep your dog’s not-so-fun behaviors under control. It can help prevent destructive chewing, biting, digging and can calm hyperactivity and anxiety.

Keep In Mind

• Dogs can run (or walk) farther and faster than people.
• If they’re just starting out, they need to build up distance gradually.

It’s also a good idea to keep puppies from exercising too strenuously or for too long to avoid damaging their developing bones and joints.To prevent your dog from getting heat stroke, avoid exercising during the hottest part of the day. Dawn, dusk and after dark are often the best times to run or walk

Running or walking with your dog can keep you motivated to stay on track and get healthy together. Plus, what could be better than spending quality time with your best friend?