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4 Ways to Exercise High-Energy Dogs While Keeping You Active

        
          

Exercise Dog

Having a high-energy dog can sometimes feel like a full-time job. Without proper exercise, socialization, and mental stimulation, your house can quickly look like a tornado. For some breeds, such as Siberian Huskies, German Shepherds, or Border Collies, pet owners feel as though they need to be marathoner runners just to keep their dogs tired and calm. Fortunately, there are numerous ways to keep a high-energy dog exercised, and not every method requires a high level of athleticism from the owner. Listed below are only a handful of examples.

Running

Running can tire out a dog in approximately half the amount of time it may take when walking. For someone who is an avid runner, this option seems like a no-brainer; however, for pet owners who are not interested in going for a run, there are a number of alternatives. For one, nearly every dog can be trained to run on a treadmill, and even enjoy doing so. A treadmill is a great way to exercise a dog without even leaving the house, and is suggested by numerous dog trainers as a way to keep a high-energy pup well-behaved. If purchasing or training your dog to run in place does not sound ideal, consider hiring someone to take your dog for a run. A number of dog walking companies also provide a running option.

Bicycling

For the owner who still would like to enjoy the outdoors, but perhaps is not fond of running, bicycling with his or her dog may be the right solution. Attachments for any style of bicycle are available online or at most bicycle or sporting goods stores that safely convert any bike into a dual purpose dog exercising machine. Dogs enjoy running for miles on dirt trails, bicycle paths, or even country roads with their owners. Be cautious, though, to slowly condition your dog to the activity and also give your pup plenty of time to build the necessary calluses on his paws if choosing to ride on asphalt.

Agility

High energy, intelligent dogs excel in the world of Agility. The constant jumping, running, and weaving required for most courses can quickly tire out a dog. As an added bonus, dogs learning new obstacles and courses also use their brain, which staves off boredom. Not interested in taking your dog to a weekly Agility class? The benefits of the sport can be achieved in the backyard, too! With a little bit of imagination, every day house hold items can be transformed into Agility obstacles. A picnic table can serve as a pause table, a hula hoop can be used as a jump, and PVC pipes can be set upright for weave poles.

Carting

For some dogs, especially sled dog breeds, carting is a natural activity that involves running, pulling, and freighting. Attaching a cart to your dog either for cargo, such as a specially designed wagon, or for transport, is a wonderful way to provide your pet with vigorous exercise, without having to expend too much energy yourself. Wagon style carts are perfect for hauling home garage sale finds or giving rides to small children, while carting for transport can be a fun activity for a Sunday afternoon. Either way, this activity will satisfy the dog’s desire for work, while also expending quite a bit of energy.


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