4 Fun Ways to Exercise Your Dog

Whatever your dog’s abilities, we present 4 exercise options that you can do with him, with guaranteed fun for both of you!

Obstacle courses and fun races

In Portugal, in recent years, there has been an increase in the popularity and number of Agility events for dogs and for a very simple reason: with lights, ball pits, tunnels and inflatables, they are a really fun way for both dogs and their owners to get cardiovascular exercise. According to Wilkinson, «this type of training is very different from traditional running», as it works muscles that are not used so frequently; and «these tests are also a mental challenge.» In Portugal, in the Agility mode there are Open, Taça de Portugal, National Championship and Selective Trials for the WAC, supervised by the Portuguese Kennel Club.

However, before signing up, consider your dog’s breed and temperament. “You will find many dogs in these environments, so make sure your dog enjoys being around others,” she notes. “It is also very important to ensure proper warming up and cooling down, and try not to force the dog beyond its physical capabilities.”

Yoga

You may never have thought that yoga could be an exercise for you and your dog, but the truth is, your pet can join you. “Dog yoga has three main benefits,” says Wilkinson. «It helps strengthen and lengthen muscles; promotes calm by acting on the parasympathetic nervous system; and helps improve communication skills between dogs.»

Some simple yoga poses you can try with your dog include the (aptly named) “Downward-Facing Dog Pose,” head tilt and leg stretch; and, adds Wilkinson: “the dog is able to do many movements and stretches on his own without having to physically manipulate his limbs, which means we will never force them or cause him pain.”

And don’t think it’s too difficult to get started: Instructor-led classes are growing quickly, and there are plenty of free books and videos online that can help you.

HIIT

HIIT (high-intensity interval training) involves interval exercises that increase your heart rate with short periods of rest. Not only is it an effective type of exercise, but research has shown that it improves cardiovascular health, promotes weight loss and is beneficial for blood pressure, among other benefits.

Although dogs cannot do star jumps or burpeesthey will enjoy practicing with you. Why not try throwing him a ball to catch and see how many push-ups you can do before he comes back, or play tug of war with your dog’s favorite rope? Or even space it out sprint of a minute with a 20-second walk accompanied by your dog?

Due to the high energy level of HIIT training, before starting a new routine, check with your vet whether this activity is appropriate (it will depend on your age, breed and health). Remember that «as for us, a good warm-up and cool-down are essential», explains Wilkinson, and also try to avoid activities that involve sudden stops, as these «have a strong impact on the front part of the animal’s body».

Nadar

You may not be able to take your dog to some beaches, but there are plenty of opportunities to swim with him. There are supervised beaches and special pools that allow owners and dogs to swim together; Swimming in the sea, rivers or lakes is very widespread and can also be done in supervised areas for greater safety. Find out which are the 50 beaches in Portugal where you can bring your dog.

Because the water supports some of the weight, “it’s a low-impact activity,” Wilkinson points out, especially beneficial “for dogs recovering from injury.”