The Essentials of Dog Care: Understanding Key Areas for Success - Lets talk exercise
Exercise: Why Dogs Need It
Exercise is a cornerstone of a dog’s well-being. It satisfies their instinctual urges—sniffing, running, chasing, biting, walking, and mentally processing their environment. Without adequate stimulation, dogs become restless, leading to undesirable behaviors. A well-rounded exercise routine should incorporate both physical and mental activity to positively regulate a dog’s energy levels.
When a client tells me, "My dog won’t listen," my first question is always about their exercise routine. Training and behavior modification are futile if a dog has excess pent-up energy. An under-exercised pup simply cannot focus, leaving owners discouraged and reinforcing problematic behaviors.
But exercise is more than just physical activity; it’s a chance to build trust and strengthen your bond. Make it a priority to spend uninterrupted time together—without distractions like your phone. Fully engaging with your dog during these moments allows you to see them in a new light. There’s nothing more rewarding than watching a dog run freely and embrace its natural instincts.
Dogs are incredibly attuned to energy. If you treat exercise as just another task on a to-do list, they will sense your detachment. A lack of engagement leads to a disconnected dog, increasing the likelihood that they will find their own ways—sometimes destructive or attention-seeking—to occupy themselves.The Importance of Bonding
One of the most critical ingredients in behavior modification is forming a strong relationship with your dog. Think about it—aren’t you more likely to follow guidance from someone you respect and genuinely enjoy being around? The same principle applies to dogs.
To create a well-balanced dynamic, I recommend following this order:
Exercise – Drain excess energy first.
Train (Discipline) – Teach structure and expectations.
Reward (Love) – Reinforce desired behaviors.
Love is easy to give, but earning a dog’s trust and respect requires effort. Trust comes through structured walks, interactive games, and meaningful engagement.
Choosing the Right Dog for Your Lifestyle
Exercise needs vary depending on breed, energy levels, age, and health. Before bringing a dog into your life, carefully evaluate your environment and lifestyle. If you live in a small apartment, a high-energy breed might not be the best fit. Conversely, if you’re highly active, choosing a more sedentary breed may not align with your routine.
Consider long-term compatibility—how will this dog fit into your life in 10 years? Ask yourself:
Am I physically capable of handling this dog?
Does my climate support this dog’s needs? Will I exercise it in extreme weather?
How much daily exercise will this dog require?
It’s easy to let emotions drive adoption decisions, but responsible ownership means prioritizing your dog's needs over personal preferences. Matching your dog to your lifestyle will prevent frustration for both you and your pup.
The Consequences of Insufficient Exercise
A lack of exercise is one of the leading causes of behavioral problems. Dogs who lack stimulation often experience boredom, frustration, destruction, and attention-seeking behaviors. In severe cases, they may be labeled uncontrollable, leading to rehoming or even euthanasia.
If you struggle to meet your dog’s exercise needs, consider alternatives like a dog walker, daycare, or structured playgroups.
Dog Parks—A Word of Caution
While some owners see dog parks as a convenient solution, I advise caution. Too often, these spaces become chaotic environments where dogs left to their own devices engage in dominance disputes or unsolicited attacks. Many owners are distracted—on their phones or chatting—rather than monitoring their dog's behavior.
Once a dog experiences an attack, reversing that psychological damage is challenging. Owners must actively supervise their dogs to prevent unnecessary confrontations. Instead, explore safer alternatives suited to your pup’s temperament, whether it’s hikes, open fields, or indoor playtime.
Finding the Right Balance
There is no universal approach to exercise, but research and experimentation will help you determine what works best. Owners often express unconditional love for their dogs but struggle when behavioral issues arise. Love alone is not enough—providing structured exercise, mental stimulation, and strong leadership is what truly fosters a well-adjusted family member.
By committing to a proper exercise routine, you set the foundation for a fulfilling relationship with your pup.
