Reviewed by Dr Abbie Lam DVM
From hot summer days to chilly winter mornings, these fun dog exercises will boost your motivation.
Fun Dog Exercise Ideas to Try Out During All Types of Weather
Regular physical activity is crucial for you and your dog’s wellbeing and can significantly reduce the risk of health issues like obesity. To inspire you and your four-legged companion to stay healthy and active, here are some top picks of activities suitable for any weather. Your dog will thank you for it!
Mix it up when walking
When you’re out walking with your dog, try and vary the surfaces you walk on, such as sand and grass, and adding inclines and declines to your route for you both to navigate. Varying your walking routine not only keeps both your and your dog’s muscles active but also strengths the bond between you and your dog.
In the summer, avoid walking your dog in the heat of the day, as this puts them at risk of heat stroke. An early morning walk or a late afternoon stroll are ideal ways to dodge the heat but still keep your dog healthy and active.
Make a splash with your dog
Wading into the water with your dog at the beach or lake is excellent exercise for both you and your furry friend. It improves cardiovascular fitness for both you and your dog and exposes your best friend to using their muscles in new ways, helping to build strength and balance. Even older dogs and those with previous injuries can benefit from swimming.
If the chilly waters aren’t your thing, indoor alternatives like hydrotherapy or underwater treadmills may be suitable for you. In the summer, going for a swim or having a splash in a pool is the perfect way to cool you and your pet down. Taking the time to teach your dog how to swim will ensure they stay calm and confident in the water.
No matter what exercise you choose, it’ll be more fun with your dog, as you can see how much joy they get from it!
For older or previously injured dogs, a canine physiotherapy assessment can tailor exercises to their needs. Additionally, omega-3 fatty acid supplements such as fish oil may also be beneficial, but you should check with your veterinarian first to find the most appropriate product for your dog.
Keep dog exercise fun with toys
Both and your dog need to move every day to feel energised and productive. Kickstarting your day with a brisk morning walk with your dog followed by throwing a ball or Frisbee is a great way to start your day with some exercise. It isn’t overly-strenuous, but it’s enough to get your joints and muscles moving and help keep you both supple and active.
Get back to nature
Exercising your dog can serve as additional motivation to get moving in winter. Daily exercise is great for both you and your dog so make that commitment to exercise together and see it through – you won't regret it.
Bush walking is a great way to get fresh air and exercise. Switch off your phone, get back to nature and reconnect with yourself and your dog. Once you’ve picked out a dog-friendly path, exercising with your dog can help reinforce your lifelong commitment to your pet. Cherish the special bond you share and enjoy happy times out in nature together.
Remember to make sure your dog is up to date with their parasite prevention before setting off on your bushwalk, especially during tick season.
Bundle Up and Head to the Park
These days we all find it harder to find the time for exercise, but a walk with your dog will enable you to get active every day. It’s also a great way to clear your mind. During winter outings, a heat pack can help your muscles recover afterwards.
Your pup can enjoy some playtime at the dog park. Dogs are great at keeping you motivated, as they quickly learn the routine of going out. They’ll recognise when you reach for the lead or your walking shoes, and they won’t let you keep them waiting!
Learn from each other
Mental exercise is essential for both dogs and people. Dogs help to create a calm environment, focusing your attention and encouraging you to stay on a task for longer. They are also ideal for teaching humans about compassion and fairness, helping us to empathise better with each other.
Equally, we have plenty to teach our dogs which can be taught inside during very hot and cold weather. If it’s too hot or cold outside, bonding with your dog by teaching them tricks can be a rewarding activity.
It’s still important to get out and about with your dog all year round, through keeping up motivation levels by trying different places. This way your dog can get to meet different people and dogs. Socialisation is highly important throughout your dog’s whole life, not just when they’re puppies. Remember, it’s important that your dog is properly socialised early in life, as this will guide them towards being friendly and social dogs in adulthood.
Your dog needs activity all year round; and although motivation may be hard to muster during hot summers and cold winters, so do you! Enjoying exercise with your dog can help keep you motivated and make fitness more fun. So get out there and cement the special bond that only you and your dog share.
