As the nights get colder and the TV better, for a lot of us our normal exercise regime has got a little left behind. And if we’re not moving as much, it’s pretty likely our pooches are in the same boat. Watching your favourite show with some treats and a cuddly companion is a pawsome way to spend an evening, but the time has come yet again and we’ve got to look after ourselves and our dogs and get moving!
Keeping our dogs fit is super impawtent to their health and longevity. So whether that’s through losing weight, exercising more, or ideally a bit of both, your doggo will benefit from getting in shape.
How can you get your pet fitter?
Getting your pet fitter, as well as helping them lose any extra weight, involves increasing their activity levels. So that might be through walking more, taking up canicross with them or even hydrotherapy swimming, particularly ideal for older pooches who find walks a little harder than before.
Another way to help is by looking for dog workout toys. These toys often support mental exercise as well as physical. So here’s a selection of toys that can give your pup a good workout.
Chuck It - Sport 12 Pocket Ball Launcher Medium
https://shop.firstvet.com/uk/product/sport-12-pocket-ball-launcher-medium
Price - £7.99*
What we love -
- Lets you throw a ball 1.5 times further than without
- Pick up the ball without your hands, to keep them slobber free
Best for -
- Pooches who love a game of fetch
- Any size of dog, with different sizes available
- Dogs that are fit and well enough to run a short distance
Dogfit Canicross Starter Kit
https://dogfit.co.uk/collections/get-active/products/dogfit-canicross-starter-kit
Price - £89.99*
What we love -
- This kit has everything you need to start out running with your dog
- A range of sizes for every size of pooch
Best for -
- Dogs who love a run, and have no health issues that stop them running
- Owners who are runners or are keen to take it up
All For Paws Interactives Dog Hyper Fetch Mini
https://hyperdrug.co.uk/all-for-paws-interactives-dog-hyper-fetch-mini/
Price - £69.99*
What we love -
- Your pooch can get a workout even when you’re not home
- Different ball throwing ranges dependent on the space you have available
Best for -
- Dogs that love playing with balls
- Pooches with lots of energy
SportPet Agility Training Set
https://www.petplanet.co.uk/p17687/sportpet_agility_training_kit.aspx
Price - £25.99*
What we love -
- This entry level kit is a good way for your dog to start a bit of agility training
- The high jump ring is size adjustable
Best for -
- Active dogs who love to learn
- Those with access to a grassy garden
KONG - Training Dummy
https://www.mountaindog.uk/products/kong-training-dummy
Price - £13.99
What we love -
- This toy is highly visible and floats when thrown into the water
- Described as tough and sturdy
Best for -
- Swimmers that love retrieving
- Larger dogs
Getting your pup fit can really benefit their long-term health, and with so many different ways for them to enjoy being active, you’re sure to find the pawfect way to get your top dog in their best shape.
*Prices subject to change. Always consult with your veterinary surgeon if you have any queries about your dog’s general health or want to start a new exercise regime. This article is for information only, and should never replace any advice, diagnosis or treatment from your veterinary surgeon.
Needing some help to give your dog more exercise? Find a local, dog lover who'd love to spend time with your pooch.
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