Why Your Dog Needs Exercise

All dogs need exercise on a regular basis, and that is true for dogs of every breed, size, or age. As pet owners, our dogs are a part of our families and we want the very best for them. An essential part of providing your dog with the best lifestyle is incorporating exercise into their daily routine. A great way to do that is taking your dog on walks, which can be fun for you and your furry friend! There are countless reasons to prioritize daily walks which will benefit their overall health and happiness.

As humans we learn the value of daily exercise to help us stay healthy and happy, and the same is true for our dogs. Regular exercise helps lower your dog's risk of high blood pressure, depression, and obesity. Did you know that in America about half of companion dogs are overweight? Extra weight on dogs can affect their joints and can lead to osteoarthritis, cardiovascular disease, liver disease, and insulin resistance. As your dog gets older it is more difficult for them to maintain a healthy weight, so walking is still essential for older dogs.

If you are looking to switch up your daily routine you can take your pup out for a swim, go on a run, a bike ride, tackle a scenic hike, play fetch with a frisbee, or invite a friend on your walk.

Once walking becomes a part of your dog's schedule, they will get so excited for their daily walks! These joyous reactions from your furry friend are a good reminder of just how important exercise really is for your pup!

During all MVS house call visits, our veterinarians will examine and weigh your dog to make sure they are on a healthy track. Our veterinarians can also recommend and prescribe foods to help with weight concerns.