One problem that can crop up for stay-at-home dogs is getting
adequate exercise. We all have the best intentions with our dogs, but juggling
work, school, family, friends, and other responsibilities can overwhelm us
sometimes. When that happens, we tend to skim some time from wherever we can.
However, cutting back on the amount of time your dog has to exercise and play
should not be an option. Once in a great while won’t hurt, of course, but
doing so often or consistently will cause your dog to feel neglected and may
instigate behavior problems.
Exercise is a constructive outlet for a dog’s energy and helps
head off some of the problem behaviors that can develop in
stay-at-home dogs, such as chewing and digging. And the one-on-one interaction
you have with your dog during the exercise period helps build his
self-confidence and his sense of security in the family pack. If you think of
this time as a chance to give your dog some undivided attention, you’re much
more likely to make it a priority. Plus, playing with your dog is a great way to
get a little exercise and fun into your own day.
Exercise allows your dog to stretch his muscles and burn up some
energy. This is especially important if he is a young dog or a big, high-energy
dog. If your dog tends to be high-strung or suffers from separation anxiety,
aerobic exercise at the start of the day can help him feel calm and relaxed and
alleviate some of his fears.
Most dogs need aerobic exercise at least once every day. Thirty
to 45 minutes of exercise and play for your dog is ideal. Fifteen to 20 minutes
is the minimum.
To keep your dog wildly enthusiastic about his exercise period,
keep your routine varied. Walk, jog, bike, and skate. Build up your biceps by
throwing balls, Frisbees, or sticks for him to catch or retrieve. If you have a
pool and a dog who likes water, let him swim laps with you. In the winter,
encourage your dog to run, jump, and tunnel in the snow. My black Lab, for
example, thinks shoveling the driveway is a game I invented just for him. He
loves to hurtle himself into the air to catch the snow as I toss it off the
shovel.
Teaching your dog some tricks or special skills is another way
you can enrich your dog’s exercise and his relationship with you. Learning
something new is good mental stimulation for your dog. Most dogs relish the
opportunity. A little exercise for the brain and the satisfaction that comes
from developing new skills will help your dog feel more relaxed and confident
during his time alone. My two dogs’three favorite games are described
below.
Play Ball!
If your dog loves to play catch, teach her to throw the ball
back to you. At first her “throws†will barely resemble a real throw. But as
she catches on to what you want, she’ll actually try to fling the ball with
her mouth. Reward her with praise and treats, and she’ll keep trying to do
better. Eventually she’ll get pretty good at it.
1. Start by throwing the ball for your dog to retrieve and
bring back to you. Do this many times.
2. At some point when she drops the ball at your feet,
she’ll unwittingly give it a bit of a spin or a fling. When she does so,
praise her using the phrase “throw the ball.†For example, say with
enthusiasm, “Good throw the ball!â€
3. Do some more throwing and retrieving until she
“throws†it again. When she does so, praise her as in step 2.
4. Practice the throwing and retrieving routine each day,
asking her to throw the ball every time she brings it to you. Before long
you’ll be able to play a real game of catch.
Slam Dunk!
You and your dog can both get plenty of exercise running up
and down a basketball “court†and “dunking†a small ball.
1. Set a basketball hoop low to the ground. (You can use an
official-size basketball hoop or a child-size one.)
2. Give your dog a ball (one small enough to fit in his
mouth). Walk him up to the hoop so that his head is over the rim. Tell him to
“dunk the ball.†He may surprise you and drop the ball through the hoop. If
he does, reward him with praise and a small treat.
3. If he doesn’t drop the ball, gently remove the ball from
his mouth and drop it through the center of the hoop. Then cheer as if you are
at a basketball game, using the phrase “dunk the ball.†Tell him what a
champion he is and give him a small treat.
4. Pick up the ball, throw it for him to go after, then stand
by the hoop. When he brings the ball to you, tell him, “Dunk the ball!†You
may have to demonstrate what you want a few more times, but if you continue to
reward him with a treat, he’ll quickly get the idea.