Safe Exercise for Puppies: Your Guide to a Healthy Pooch

Just like humans, pets need exercise to stay fit and healthy. However, you must keep in mind that if they are still puppies, they should exercise in moderation to prevent injury to their developing bodies.

When it comes to the safest and best possible way for your puppy to get the physical workout they need, it’s best to become familiar with some specific dos and don’ts. Read on to learn about what you should and should not do to keep your small pet healthy and happy all day!

The Do’s

1. Wait for your puppy to reach the appropriate age for exercise. Most puppy breeds develop continuously until they are 18 months of age. This means that intense physical activity may affect the formation of their bones, tendons, and joints.
2. Give your puppy short but gradually increasing sessions of physical exercise. Your puppy needs to get used to short walks before they can go on longer and longer walks. This habit also helps release the energy they need as playful animals!
3. Let your puppy take regular breaks. Even if your walks are short, remember to rest for a few minutes now and then and use this opportunity to train their obedience. 

The Don’ts

1. Never put your puppy in physically intense play sessions. As mentioned above, any activity that may be too much for their age can fracture or damage their young bones, jaw, and even teeth. 
2. Do not engage in exercise sessions without breaks. Ten to 15 minutes of physical activity in between breaks will benefit your puppy tremendously. Any more than this length of time may be harmful to their growing bodies.
3. Do not increase the number of exercise sessions for your pet just to tire them out. More exercise is not necessarily better. You should aim to get your puppy used to physical activity while giving them plenty of breaks to recover.

At What Age Should You Start Exercising Your Puppy?

The age of your puppy is a huge factor in determining whether it is safe for them to engage in exercise. Typically, puppies can start exercising as early as three months old. However, it is still recommended to consult with a professional before letting them engage in physical exercise to ensure it is done safely. 

It’s important to note that a high-energy puppy breed does not automatically make them fit for a high-intensity workout. 

Conclusion

Following the simple dos and don’ts above should give you an idea of how to prepare exercise sessions for your puppy. Do not force your puppy to engage in physical activity when you feel that they are not comfortable with it yet. Your puppy is still a baby, and you must provide the right time and pace to develop on their own and get used to moving their bodies around. 

If you are unsure about what age your puppy can start exercising or what kinds of exercise you can plan for them, read about dogs on trusted sources available online or talk to a pet care professional. It will help you save time and avoid putting your pet in a situation that may harm their growth and health. 
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