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Staying active benefits both humans and dogs, especially when you find an activity that creates a sense of achievement and motivates you to keep moving together.
The CDC recommends that an average healthy adult should get 150 minutes of moderate-intensity activity per week. Dogs also need regular exercise, but how much depends on your dog’s breed and age. Growing puppies can’t take on as much activity as adult dogs. And active breeds, such as Border Collies or German Shepherd Dogs, thrive on daily physical activity more than others.
If you’re looking for a new way to get moving with your dog, here are some activities to try with your dog.
Go for a Walk
This activity may seem obvious, but walking your dog is an easy way to keep you and your pet active and social. If you walk your dog in a busy area, make sure your dog is polite and focused on you, not on other people or dogs. And if you have a puppy, teach them how to walk on a leash before going to any busy areas.
Go for a Run
If your dog is well-behaved while walking, try adding jogging or running to your dog walks. Ease into running by alternating between walking and running. Gradually build up the time you spend jogging. For example, you can alternate between jogging for 60 seconds and walking for 90 seconds during your 20-minute walk.
Be aware of your dog at all times and stop if they look uncomfortable. If you and your dog love running together, challenge yourselves to build up to a participating in a race, such as a 5K. If you’re unsure if your dog is up to it, ask your veterinarian.
Play Fetch
Instead of just standing while your dog retrieves the ball, try doing a set of lunges, squats, jumping jacks, or another exercise before your dog makes it back to you. Change up your exercise between throws and use a ball launcher to really give you and your dog a workout.
Try Dog Sports, Like Agility
A fun canine sport, agility will get you and your dog really moving as you work as a team to complete a timed obstacle course. If you’re interested in more than one dog sport, take our quiz to find out which dog sport you should try with your pet.
Practice Dog Yoga
“Doga” is similar to the regular mind-body workout of yoga, but it’s with your dog. Practicing yoga can help tone muscles and increase flexibility. While some yoga studios may offer dog-friendly classes, there are a number of tutorials online if you want to give the sport a try at home.
Dance With Your Dog
Not only does dancing provide a good cardio workout, but dancing with your dog can be a fun way to bond and stay active together. And if you’re really serious about it, there are many “canine freestyle” and other dog dance competitions around the world. If you’re interested, you can try it yourself at home or attend local events put on by a few organizations, including the Canine Freestyle Federation.
Take a Hike
Consider going hiking with your dog. Find a nearby hiking trail to make your regular walks more challenging. Keep an eye out for wildlife and be aware of poisonous plants and insects that could carry disease. If you live in a city, try urban hiking between a few landmarks or your favorite dog-friendly places.
Train Your Dog to Do Tricks
Teach your dog some tricks that will impress your friends and keep you both moving. Try teaching leg weaves or how to go under the bridge. If you and your dog master a few tricks, try putting them together to create a routine.
Ride a Bike or Go Rollerblading
If you have a very active dog, riding a bike or rollerblading while your dog runs alongside could be a good way to burn off some energy. Before you start, make sure your dog isn’t scared of your rollerblades or bike, and that you can pay attention to your dog while you ride.
Attend a Dog-Friendly Fitness Class
There are a number of dog-friendly fitness instructors who offer yoga, Pilates, and aerobics classes, both in person and online, or try out AKC FIT DOG.
Play Soccer
Soccer requires a lot of physical endurance and coordination, but it can be a fun and easy game to play in your backyard with your dog. Some dogs will naturally go after the soccer ball, while others may need training and guidance. While some dogs may want to chase after the ball, some want to play goalie.
Before you exercise with your dog, make sure both you and your dog are physically up to it. Consult your veterinarian about the types and amounts of exercise that are right for your dog before embarking on a new exercise routine.
Remember to take regular breaks and stay appropriately hydrated or cool. Be aware of the weather and avoid exercising in extreme heat. If your dog shows signs of difficulty breathing or other symptoms of illness, contact your veterinarian.
This article is intended solely as general guidance, and does not constitute health or other professional advice. Individual situations and applicable laws vary by jurisdiction, and you are encouraged to obtain appropriate advice from qualified professionals in the applicable jurisdictions. We make no representations or warranties concerning any course of action taken by any person following or otherwise using the information offered or provided in this article, including any such information associated with and provided in connection with third-party products, and we will not be liable for any direct, indirect, consequential, special, exemplary or other damages that may result, including but not limited to economic loss, injury, illness or death.