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 Dog Thoughts

Exercise & Entertainment

How Much Exercise Does My Dog Really Need?

Every dog owner knows that exercise is a critical part of keeping their furry friend happy and healthy. But how much exercise does your dog really need? While there is no one-size-fits-all answer, there are practical guidelines you can follow to ensure your dog is getting the right amount of physical activity based on their breed, age, and energy level.

Factors That Affect Your Dog’s Exercise Needs

1. Breed and Size: Different breeds have different exercise requirements. High-energy breeds like Border Collies, Australian Shepherds, and Siberian Huskies need more rigorous exercise compared to lower-energy breeds like Bulldogs or Shih Tzus. Similarly, larger dogs like Labradors or Retrievers usually need more physical activity than smaller breeds like Chihuahuas or Dachshunds.

2. Age: Puppies are bundles of energy and require plenty of playtime. However, their exercise should be broken into shorter, more frequent sessions to avoid overstressing their developing bodies. Adult dogs generally need consistent daily exercise, while senior dogs may require less intense activities due to joint issues or slower metabolisms.

3. Health and Condition: Dogs with health concerns or mobility issues will have different exercise requirements. Consult your vet for personalized advice if your dog has any medical conditions that could be affected by physical activity.

General Guidelines by Age and Breed

1. High-Energy Breeds

Dogs like Border Collies, Jack Russell Terriers, and German Shepherds fall into this category. They need at least 1.5 to 2 hours of exercise each day. This can include a combination of walking, running, playing fetch, agility training, or hiking.

Tip: Mental stimulation is just as crucial as physical exercise for these dogs. Puzzle toys and training sessions that challenge their brains can help keep them well-rounded and satisfied.

2. Moderate-Energy Breeds

Labradors, Golden Retrievers, and Poodles generally need 1 to 1.5 hours of daily exercise. A long walk paired with some playtime in the yard or a quick game of fetch is typically sufficient.

Tip: Include variety to keep them engaged. Swimming, for instance, is a low-impact activity that many moderate-energy breeds enjoy and benefits joint health.

3. Low-Energy Breeds

Breeds like Bulldogs, Basset Hounds, and Shih Tzus are on the lower end of the energy scale. They usually require 30 minutes to 1 hour of moderate exercise per day. This can be broken up into shorter walks or interactive play indoors.

Tip: Keep an eye on their breathing and energy levels, especially for brachycephalic (short-nosed) breeds that can easily become overheated or overexerted.

How to Know if Your Dog Is Getting Enough Exercise

The best way to tell if your dog is receiving the right amount of exercise is to observe their behavior:

• Signs of Adequate Exercise: A well-exercised dog is usually relaxed, content, and less prone to destructive behaviors. They should sleep well and show good social behavior.

• Signs of Insufficient Exercise: If your dog is hyperactive, chewing furniture, digging, barking excessively, or showing other destructive behaviors, they may need more exercise. Excess weight gain is also a clear indicator.

• Signs of Over-Exertion: Watch for heavy panting, limping, or an unwillingness to continue walking. These signs suggest that your dog may be over-exercising and needs a break.

Best Types of Exercise for Dogs

1. Walking: This is the foundation of most exercise routines. Walking helps maintain weight and cardiovascular health while giving your dog the chance to explore and enjoy new smells.

2. Fetch: This game is great for burning energy in a short amount of time. It engages their prey drive and is perfect for active breeds.

3. Hiking: For dogs with higher stamina, hiking provides a full-body workout and mental stimulation from the new environment.

4. Swimming: Low-impact yet highly effective, swimming is perfect for dogs with joint problems or breeds that love water, like Retrievers.

5. Training and Agility: Activities like agility courses or training drills challenge both the body and the mind, perfect for intelligent breeds that crave stimulation.

Adjusting Exercise Based on Age and Health

Puppies

Puppies need shorter, frequent sessions. A general rule of thumb is 5 minutes of exercise per month of age, twice a day. For example, a 3-month-old puppy could benefit from 15 minutes of exercise, twice a day.

Senior Dogs

Older dogs may not be able to keep up with their younger days. Adjust the intensity and duration to suit their pace. Focus on shorter walks, gentle play, and activities that don’t strain their joints.

Wrapping Up

Every dog is unique, so while guidelines are helpful, the best approach is to monitor your dog’s response to exercise and adjust accordingly. By finding the right balance, you’ll help your dog lead a healthy, happy life and strengthen your bond along the way. Don’t hesitate to ask your veterinarian for tailored recommendations, especially if your dog’s exercise needs change suddenly or if you’re unsure about what’s best.

Remember: Consistent and appropriate exercise is one of the most important gifts you can give your dog, contributing to their physical health, mental well-being, and overall happiness.

Nutrition & Diet

The Benefits of Making Your Own Home-Cooked Dog Food

While commercial dog foods can be convenient, making your own home-cooked dog food comes with numerous benefits that can make a big difference in your dog’s life. Here’s why you might want to consider whipping up a fresh meal for your furry friend and a couple of easy recipes to get you started.

Why Choose Home-Cooked Meals for Your Dog?

1. Control Over Ingredients: One of the biggest benefits of home-cooked meals is knowing exactly what goes into your dog’s food. Many commercial pet foods contain fillers, artificial preservatives, and low-quality proteins. By making meals at home, you have control over the quality and freshness of the ingredients.

2. Tailored Nutrition: Every dog is different. Age, size, activity level, and any specific health conditions can affect your dog’s nutritional needs. Home-cooked meals can be customized to ensure your dog gets the right balance of protein, healthy fats, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals suited to their individual requirements.

3. Improved Digestive Health: Dogs often digest fresh, whole foods better than processed kibbles. This can lead to fewer digestive upsets, better stool quality, and a reduction in problems like bloating or gas.

4. Enhanced Palatability: Let’s face it, home-cooked food is usually more appetizing than dry kibble. Many dogs love the taste and aroma of freshly prepared meals, which can be especially important for picky eaters or dogs recovering from illness.

5. Reduced Allergies and Sensitivities: If your dog has food allergies or sensitivities, making their meals at home allows you to avoid allergens and introduce new ingredients one at a time. This helps identify and eliminate the foods that trigger reactions, promoting better skin health and reduced itching or rashes.

6. Supports Healthy Weight Management: Portion control is easier with home-cooked meals, and you can adjust the diet based on your dog’s activity levels. This helps prevent overeating and supports a healthy weight, which is essential for joint health and overall longevity.

Important Considerations Before Switching

While the benefits are clear, it’s crucial to make sure your dog’s diet is balanced. Consult with your veterinarian or a dog nutritionist to ensure your dog receives adequate nutrition from homemade meals. Dogs need specific amounts of calcium, protein, essential fatty acids, and certain vitamins and minerals to thrive. Supplements may be necessary to meet these needs.

Simple, Nutritious Recipes for Your Dog

Ready to try home cooking? Here are two balanced recipes you can make in your own kitchen:

Recipe 1: Chicken and Veggie Delight

This recipe is easy to make, packed with protein, and filled with vitamins from fresh vegetables.

Ingredients:

• 2 chicken breasts (boneless and skinless)

• 1 cup of brown rice

• 1 cup of mixed vegetables (carrots, green beans, and spinach)

• 1 tablespoon of olive oil

Instructions:

1. Cook the brown rice according to the package instructions.

2. In a separate pot, boil the chicken breasts until fully cooked, then shred or dice them into bite-sized pieces.

3. Steam the vegetables until tender.

4. Combine the chicken, rice, and vegetables in a large mixing bowl and add the olive oil.

5. Mix thoroughly and allow the food to cool before serving.

Serving Size: Adjust the portion based on your dog’s weight (e.g., 1 cup for a 20-pound dog per meal).

Recipe 2: Beef and Sweet Potato Feast

This meal is protein-rich and packed with essential nutrients.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound of lean ground beef

• 1 large sweet potato

• 1/2 cup of peas (fresh or frozen)

• 1/2 cup of finely chopped kale

• 1 teaspoon of fish oil (rich in omega-3 fatty acids)

Instructions:

1. Peel and dice the sweet potato, then boil until soft.

2. In a skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until fully browned. Drain any excess fat.

3. Add the peas and chopped kale to the skillet with the beef and sauté for a few more minutes.

4. Mash the cooked sweet potato and mix it with the beef and vegetable mixture.

5. Stir in the fish oil and let the meal cool before serving.

Serving Size: As with the first recipe, adjust portions according to your dog’s size and caloric needs.

Final Thoughts

Home-cooked meals for your dog can be a great addition to their diet or even a complete substitute for commercial pet food, as long as they’re well-balanced. They allow for fresh, high-quality ingredients and customization that helps your dog thrive. Start with these simple recipes and tweak them based on your pet’s preferences and nutritional advice from your vet.

By making the switch, you’re not just providing a meal—you’re offering love, care, and a step towards better health for your canine companion.

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Click the image below for dogs funny eating habits

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Have an awesome week of adventures with your dog , see you next week!

 Phil