Keeping your dog young
An obvious part of owning dogs is walking them. As they grow older, the long distances and uneven terrain starts to wear on their joints, and longer walks can become more painful. If you and your dog have a walking routine, perhaps consider modifying it to keep them feeling younger.
Why?
Dogs are just like people; they have feelings just like us, and they can become bored of the same routine just like we can. By making changes to your walking routine, you can help refresh their youthful curiosity. New walking routes provide new smells to discover and hiding places to explore.
By changing where you walk each day, when you return to the previous route, more new smells will be waiting, giving your usual route a lot more appeal. This way, your dog will keep up its enthusiastic exploring, even into older age.
If you and your dog aren’t normally the type to play ‘fetch’, perhaps try introducing it into your routine once a week. The experience can be improved by carrying a small bag of treats with you, allowing the dog some reward for participation.
Of course, not all dogs like to bring their ball back! – In this case, chase after your dog; make a game out of the situation. Your dog will be tired out and grinning when you finally get home, the perfect sign that he is happy and healthy.
Swimming is another great activity your Dog will really love, and it doesn't put much stress at all on joints, in fact it's almost purely muscular activity. But remember to keep your Dog safe near the water.
Benefits for you
Playing and walking with your dog will not only provide you with the obvious health benefits. Doctors recommend that walking and running will keep us healthy, but did you know that it has been proven for dog owners to have lower blood pressure and cholesterol?
Aside from the physical health benefits, a walk in the morning or evening with your dog can relieve you from stress after a hard day at work, or prepare you for a long day ahead. Take the time to enjoy the scenery and the play; a walk is a brilliant way to bond with your dog and show them you really do care.
