How to Tell If Your Dog Needs More Exercise

When Beginning New Exercise, Keep This in Mind

Note: Don't begin or drastically increase your dog's exercise regimen without speaking with your veterinarian first to ensure that he is medically capable of handling it. Be sure to provide your dog with lots of fresh water during exercise, and don't overdo it in hot temperatures.

Continue reading to learn six ways to tell if your dog needs more exercise and to find great ideas for how to get it for him.

Your Dog Is Overweight

If your dog is overweight, he is taking in more calories than he is burning. This might mean that he needs to go on a diet, but exercise can certainly improve the situation as well. There are many reasons for keeping your dog at a good weight. Your veterinarian is best suited to tell you whether your individual dog is overweight and to advise you on a diet and exercise plan for him, but you can learn more in these articles: "Hands-On Guide to Checking If Your Dog Is a Good Weight," and "Obesity in Dogs: Overview of Causes and Dangers."

Your Dog Is Destructive

It's important to remember that dogs will sometimes destroy belongings or property accidentally, especially curious puppies. However, if your dog's destructive habits are excessive, it may indicate that he is bored. Boredom in dogs is resolved through play and exercise. Playing with, walking, and exercising your dog can tire him out, making him less likely to take out his boredom on your property.

Your Dog Barks Excessively

Dogs that have a habit of barking for little or no reason may need more exercise. The barking may be the result of boredom or anxiety, both of which can be improved by allowing the dog to blow off steam through walking and playing. Barking excessively can also be a sign of separation anxiety or simply a part of the dog's personality, but a dog that is tired from having had lots of exercise will be less likely to bark too much, regardless of the reason.

Your Dog Doesn't Sleep Well

A dog that doesn't get enough exercise is less likely to sleep well at night. Making sure that your dog is tired out is a great way to ensure that he won't be up all night pacing around, causing trouble, and looking for someone to play with him. Note: if your dog is suddenly having trouble sleeping when he never did before, check with your veterinarian to rule out a medical problem.

Your Dog Demands Attention Constantly

While each dog's personality is different and some of them will want more attention from their humans than others, a dog that incessantly brings you a ball, nudges you, or whines or stares at you all day may need more exercise. These behaviors can indicate boredom, so try increasing your dog's exercise schedule (with your veterinarian's consent) if your dog is engaging in them a lot.

Your Dog Pulls on the Leash Excessively

If your dog consistently pulls hard on the leash whenever you walk him, even though he's been properly trained to heel, it may indicate that he has too much pent-up energy and not enough exercise. Unfortunately, a dog that pulls on the leash excessively may receive less exercise because the owner is reluctant to subject him or herself to the experience. If possible, tire your dog out a bit with a game of fetch or tug-of-war before walking; your dog will be less likely to pull exuberantly if he's tuckered out.

Good Dog Exercises

So you've decided that your dog needs more exercise. What types of things can you do with him? With your veterinarian's approval, you can try walking, playing fetch, and playing tug of war. If your dog is a member of a working breed that needs even more exercise than other dogs, consider agility training. And if you get worn-out before your dog does, you can even take a rest and supervise while your dog plays with a Tether Tug Dog Toy. If your dog is well-trained and good with other dogs, a dog park is a great place for canine socialization and exercise. Keep in mind that some exercises aren't suitable for all dogs. Dogs with short faces can't do the same intensity of exercising as other dogs, and those with short legs and long backs are more vulnerable to spinal injuries from jumping/twisting forms of activity. Check with your veterinarian if you aren't sure whether a certain type of exercise is appropriate for your dog.