Exercising your large-breed dog

Exercising your large-breed dog

Nothing is definitely more enjoyable for you and your huge or gigantic breed dog—Great Dane, Greyhound, Boxer, etc.—than going outside and working out together. While strengthening your connection, it keeps you both healthy.

Things to keep in mind

Dogs of large and enormous breeds may be significantly more prone to joint problems. Since obesity and inactivity are the main risk factors for joint disorders, it is especially important to exercise frequently and assist them in maintaining a healthy weight.

While it may be alluring to bring your large-breed puppy along for your daily run with his boundless energy, keep in mind that until he is regarded as an adult, his skeleton hasn't matured sufficiently to withstand such activity. Puppies certainly require exercise, but until they are mature enough to do so safely, they should avoid strenuous or intensive physical activity. 

Please make sure to speak with a veterinary practitioner if you have any worries about your dog's health before starting a new exercise regimen. This advice also applies to you! Before changing the amount of physical exercise you engage in, speak with your personal doctor if you have any health issues.

Let's now consider some enjoyable activities you can do with your significant other to be healthy, active, and to have fun.

1. Walking your dog with love

It might be as simple as going for a walk down the street or to the dog park to get some exercise together. Do you want to work out? To raise your heart rate and increase calorie burning for both of you, mix it up with short bouts of jogging, running, or high-stepping.

Want a challenge that's even greater? Walk on various terrains, such as sand, a rough surface, shallow water, fallen leaves, or snow. Alternatively, create obstacles for your dog to jump over, crawl under, or balance on, such as benches, trees, ditches, and logs. Keep jumping heights low until your dog is over a year in age.

2. Fetch Races

A new spin on an old favourite. Toss your dog's favourite toy. But this time, race your dog to see who can get there first. Throwing sticks, on the other hand, should be avoided because they can splinter and cause injury.

3. Obstacle course for dogs

To begin, place some fitness steps or other similar household items around your backyard. Next, put your dog on a leash and walk him through the course quickly. When you reach a step, perform an exercise such as toe touches, modified push-ups, or leg squats to get a good workout. Your dog will be constantly on the move and will enjoy spending time with you.

4. Local Park

Your neighbourhood dog park is a combination of a birthday party and an aerobics class. Bring your dog alone, or bring some friends and their dogs to make it a social event. Make sure you've done socialisation training with your dog to help him be relaxed and friendly in this sometimes chaotic environment.

5. Local exercise groups

Many local parks host 5k runs, swims in public pools or lakes, and other events where you and your dog can get some exercise alongside hundreds or thousands of other pets and their owners. Maintain your relationship with your dog and other pet parents while remaining active and having fun.

6. Hiking

Your large dog enjoys being outside in nature just as much as you do. So, the next time you lace up your hiking boots, grab the leash and bring your dog along! Choose a trail that is the appropriate length and elevation for your abilities, and bring enough water to keep both of you hydrated.

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