Juggling work commitments while maintaining a healthy lifestyle is difficult enough, scheduling in quality bonding time with your dog may seem downright impossible. So, why not combine the two and incorporate dog-friendly exercises into your life? Getting fit doesn’t mean you need to go to the gym 5 times a week. There are many different ways you can be physically active outside of a regimented routine. Here are a few great options to help you get fit with fido.
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Different breeds of dogs have varying exercise needs, but most dogs love to spend time with their owners in an open green area. Visit your local park and arm yourself with a tennis ball or a frisbee. If your dog is unfamiliar with the concept of fetch and tends to snatch and run instead, teaching them to bring back the ball can be incredibly rewarding. Just make sure you have some treats on hand for a successful training session. Training a dog will engage their body and mind, and it can help you get moving and loosen up too.
Stand up paddleboarding (SUP) is a sport that enables you to explore the waters in a fun and physical way. It is a self-propelled sport which requires you to engage your arms, legs, shoulder and back muscles. This activity enhances core strength and improves flexibility. Your four-legged friend can get involved by either balancing on the board or swimming along beside you. If you plan on staying out on the water for a while, invest in a doggy life vest for safety.
Part of a healthy lifestyle is a healthy diet and if you have a passion for all things nutrition then why not get your dog involved? Many pet owners nourish their pets with a Biologically Appropriate Raw Food diet (BARF). This diet consists of raw meat, bones, fruit and vegetables. The domesticated dogs of today have evolved from grey wolves that hunted prey in packs and scavenged berries, eggs and plants. Raw food feeders suggest that this high protein and low carbohydrate diet is typical of the type of food dogs ate thousands of years ago.
Dogs are naturally omnivorous carnivores, so it makes sense to feed them nutritious food that is primarily made up of animal-based proteins. However, before diving into this diet it is always best to do your research and consult your vet. Visit easyvet.com to schedule an appointment with a veterinarian. Not only can they give you advice about your dog’s nutritional requirements, but they can also offer healthy suggestions on how you can get fit together.
Be the ultimate multitasker and combine a healthy lifestyle, time with your dog and fundraising by participating in a charitable dog jog. There are some existing fundraisers to choose from or you can pick a good cause and create your own event. Not only is the challenge itself a great way to exercise, but you may need to train beforehand to get in shape. Devise a training plan for you and your furry friend, so that you are both fit and ready for the big day.
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