I see a lot of overweight dogs at the hospital. Explaining exercise to owners can be difficult, especially if the owner is overweight themselves. Exercising your dog is as important as you taking care of yourself by watching your diet and exercising. So the obvious and fun solution is to exercise together!
I grew in New York City and walking my dog wasn't an option. It had to be done, three times per day. We walked the streets of Manhattan and make our way to beautiful Central Park. When I moved to Florida, I noticed that people with back yards didn't seem to take their dogs for a walk. They open the door and the dog goes otside by himself and comes in a few minutes later. Not a high caloric burning sort of workout, right? Feel the burn! Feel the burn! Not.
Pretend you don't have a backyard and take your dog out once or twice per day. Make it part of your routine to take you and your dog for a walk. Yes, that's right...I said take yourself for a walk as well.
The benefits of going for a brisk walk (hell, a leisurely walk will even do) is not only the obvious physical exercise but the often overlooked benefit is that you and the pack are out and about! Dogs are not solitary animals. This is their moment to be with someone from the family/pack. That's all these dogs want... is to be with you. So get some exercise at the same time and enjoy the time together! Your dog will love you even more! Stay safe and healthy and remember to keep wagging!
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