Author: Victoria Smith

If you own a dog, keeping your pet physically healthy is important to ensure they live a long and healthy life. Fortunately, your dog has many of the same basic needs that you have in maintaining good health, including the need for physical activity. While going for a walk or a run are a few ways for both of you to get that exercise, here are a few more exciting ways for you and your dog to work out together.

Spend Some Time at the Beach

There are plenty of ways you and your dog can enjoy some time hitting the beach, but be sure the places you go are posted as dog-friendly. Once there, you can play catch with your dog, let him dig in the sand, or just lay around in the sun. You can both cool off in the water as well. Some people have had success in teaching their dogs to ride an epoxy paddle board, but be sure to fit your pet with a canine life jacket before hitting the waves. If surfing isn’t your thing, you can just go swimming or wading in the water with your dog.

Go Backpacking

Another activity you can do with your dog is to go backpacking in the mountains. Your dog will have a great time getting back to nature, and you’ll enjoy the fresh air and exercise as well. Be sure to pack a bag full of supplies, including plenty of dry snacks and water for the both of you. Before hitting the trails, you should also take time to plan out your route. Let others know where you’re going and when you’ll be back. Additionally, take time to research the region to identify any dangerous animals that might inhabit the area. Knowing what to expect will help you and your pet stay safe during your hike.

A Visit to the Dog Park is Always a Treat

Taking your dog to a nearby dog park will benefit your dog’s social and emotional health in addition to promoting better physical health for your dog. A dog park is ideal for allowing your poet the opportunity to interact with other people and their pets. This promotes important social skills that will help your dog behave better in situations involving other people. This is also a great way for you and your pet to find new friends who share common interests.

Go Bicycling

Once your dog has become accustomed to off-the-leash activities, you can trust them to stay with you as you ride your bicycle. You’ll see many dog owners bicycling with their pets because this is a great way to get a more intense workout. You’ll work up a sweat as you bicycle through the paths at your local park. Meanwhile, your dog will love running beside you and trying to keep up. Dogs love to run, so you can trust that your pet will always be ready for another exciting bicycle ride. Just be sure there’s plenty of water to drink after you complete that ride since it’s important for both of you to stay hydrated.

Attend Special Events

You should always check the pet policy for any events that interest you. Many events do allow pets as long as the owners abide by some minimal rules, such as keeping their dog on a leash. You can take your pet to a local fair, wine tasting party, or charity run. Your dog will be excited just to get out of the house, and you’ll enjoy having the company of your four-legged companion as you do something that you find fun. Even a walk that benefits a charity can be fun for you both while allowing you to give back to your community. You may even find some events in your community organized with pets in mind, such as a meet and greet at your local pet store. You can find pet-friendly events by checking the bulletin boards at area pet stores and veterinary hospitals.

Getting enough physical activity doesn’t have to be a chore as these examples suggest. Instead, you and your dog can have fun together. In addition to helping you stay physically fit, these ideas will help you enjoy more time with your dog. As a result, you’ll bond with your dog, and you’ll both live happier and healthier lives.