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How much exercise does your dog actually need? The answer varies. “It really depends on individual factors: your dog’s breed, life stage and any health considerations they may have,” says Dr Fiona Patterson, veterinary adviser at Mars Petcare.
Generally, 30–60 minutes is a good amount of daily exercise for your animal, with more needed for working breeds and energetic dogs, and possibly less for seniors with mobility issues. However, exercise is not just about fitness – it’s also about providing your dog with mental stimulation and helping to ensure their emotional wellbeing.
“Modern-day pets are pretty much underemployed, so we need to give them jobs to do to keep them physically well and mentally sharp,” adds Fiona.
Here are some ideas to keep your pup at their physical, mental and emotional best.
Keep walkies interesting for your canine companion and don’t go to the same off-leash places or dog parks – mix things up. For example, take a different route or go via a pup-friendly cafe. Make some walks brisk, and other times take them on a ‘sniffari’ by using a long lead and letting your dog set the pace.
A good game of fetch with a ball or dog toy is a great way to stretch your pup’s legs. Or switch things up and have fun with a game of hide-and-seek or chase. Sharing a silly moment with your dog will build your bond. It’s great for their emotional wellbeing, and it’s also good for your mental health, too.
If your dog likes the water, a trip to a safe dog beach, river, lake or even a backyard pool is heaven. It’s good for dogs with mobility issues, too – if they can swim safely, it’s gentle on their joints.
Mental stimulation is as important as physical exercise for your four-legged friend, so try your dog on puzzle feeders and chew toys that make them work for an edible reward.
Think about what your dog really loves and see if you can harness that in an innovative way. “If you have a terrier who loves to dig, create a sandpit, bury some treats in it and they’ll dig like mad to find them,” suggests Fiona. “This also lets them express normal canine behaviour, but in a desirable location.”
Seek out new dog-friendly parks. This will give your pup valuable social interactions with other dogs and people while expending energy off the leash (providing it is safe to do so and your pet comes when called). You might even make a friend, too!
Explore obedience or trick training for both puppies and adult dogs. “This helps you build the bond with your pet, plus they’re really using their mind, which burns a lot of calories,” says Fiona.
Check out our Happy Tails range.
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Photo Credit: Getty Images
Asbestos, lead-based paints and copper chromium arsenic (CCA) treated timber are health hazards you need to look out for when renovating older homes. These substances can easily be disturbed when renovating and exposure to them can cause a range of life-threatening diseases and conditions including cancer. For information on the dangers of asbestos, lead-based paint and CCA treated timber and tips for dealing with these materials contact your local council's Environmental Health Officer or visit our Health & Safety page.
When following our advice in our D.I.Y. videos, make sure you use all equipment, including PPE, safely by following the manufacturer’s instructions. Check that the equipment is suitable for the task and that PPE fits properly. If you are unsure, hire an expert to do the job or talk to a Bunnings Team Member.
