How much exercise do dogs need? It all depends on your pup and their breed. Some are far more active than others, but all dogs need at least 30 minutes outside each day to really thrive. When it comes to getting your dog enough exercise in Chicago and other large cities, many pet parents are surprised at just how much physical activity their pups need to thrive. But like humans, lack of movement leads to more stress, pent-up energy, and fast fixes to alleviate boredom. If your dog has any of these signs, it may be time to book a walk with a dog walker in Chicago.
Constant Biting and Chewing
Bored dogs look for easy ways to stimulate their minds. Unfortunately, this usually comes at the expense of your couch or favorite pair of shoes. Chewing is a natural instinct for any dog, which is why having easy access to bones and other chew toys is crucial! If your fur baby also tends to get mouthy when playing, it could be a sign they need more positive training and exercise to reduce rough-housing.
Exercise can easily reduce the amount of biting or chewing your dog does, but you should also make sure they have healthy outlets to gnaw to their heart’s content at home!
Sleeping Too Much
Is your dog really that into naps, or are they just bored? Like people, dogs can become overly drowsy when they’re not getting enough exercise. A dozing dog who sits on the couch or bed all day isn’t living to their fullest. Schedule more walks into their week, so they can get plenty of outdoor time, enjoy stimulating scents, and appreciate the fresh air, new sounds, and sights. You might be surprised how much a nice walk and some playtime perk your pup up!
Continued Whining
The endless whining or barking from a frustrated pup isn’t just them being ill-behaved. Many owners scold their dog for making a lot of noise, but they’re really just trying to tell you that they need more exercise! A long walk, a trip to the dog park, and a chance to run around can easily soothe their nerves and provide a healthy, constructive outlet for their energy.
Difficulty Focusing on Commands
Your once-obedient pup now seems to pretend they don’t know a single command, or they sit only for a few seconds before hopping off the floor. What gives? Over-stimulation can be a distraction, but under-stimulation can be equally problematic. When dogs don’t get enough exercise, it becomes difficult for them to focus on what you’d like them to do. Moving is just so much more exciting!
Don’t blame your pup; think about how you feel when you have to sit for hours without any entertainment or engagement. Lack of exercise can cause serious side effects for your pooch, so make sure you prioritize their physical activity!
Many owners find that their training woes resolve once their pet gets enough walks and outdoor time. Try looking into dog walking in Chicago if your dog needs a bit more exercise than you can provide on your own.
Attention-Demanding Acts
Demand barking, jumping, biting, and generally intrusive behavior are your dog’s way of telling you, “Hey! I’m bored. Let’s go outside!” A simple walk around the block may not be enough for some dogs, especially high-energy breeds like Labradors. You’ll want to give them exercise that feels enriching, just like you have your favorite way of working out.
Maybe it’s throwing a ball or frisbee at the park, or perhaps your dog discovers a love for make-shift agility courses in the living room. Discovering what your dog loves to do for physical activity can be a fun bonding exercise you both enjoy.
The Bottom Line
Dogs need exercise to stay both physically and mentally healthy. More exercise means less destructive behavior, which gives you more time to actually enjoy being with your furry friend instead of correcting them. If you need a hand getting your dog the exercise they need, consider booking a walk with one of Green Paws Chicago’s trusted Pet Care Specialists. Such a small investment can make a world of difference for you and your pup.
