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Exercise And Mental Stimulation
Puppies (and even older dogs!) need less exercise than most people think. While physical exercise is important for dogs, so is mental enrichment. Puppies also shouldn’t be exercised too much, especially while their bones and growth plates are still developing.
Too much physical exertion can cause join and bone problems in the long run and creates an extremely fit pup that will always continue to need more before they are tired. Instead focus on gentle exercise, interactive toys and mental enrichment to keep your puppy happy. You’ll not only have a happy and satisfied puppy, you and your pup might learn something new too!
Remember! Always supervise your pup when they are using an enrichment toy to ensure that they are interacting with it safely.
Tips for Exercising Your Puppy
- The amount of exercise your pup needs really depends on their size and their breed. There is no hard and fast rule but keep the sessions short and slowly increase it as they get older. Watch your puppy for any signs of fatigue and take short breaks.
- When you are playing with your puppy, it’s important to keep it low key. Tug and games of fetch should be limited to short periods of time and avoid any movement where they have to jump up or turn sharply on their sides. Puppies don’t know their limits so it’s up to you to enforce breaks and limitations!
- Consistency is important for puppies their growing bodies. Limiting exercise during the week and then going for long runs on the weekend can cause harm to your pup’s growing bones. Instead, aim for a consistent amount of daily exercise.
- Avoid any activity that will cause impact on their limbs while they are still young. This includes climbing and jumping. Yes, puppies LOVE to jump and climb, so you will need to keep an eye out and manage them!
Mental Stimulation for Your Puppy
Part of your pup’s daily activity should also include mental stimulation. Here are our 5 favourite ways to provide mental enrichment for your pup:
- Try A New Trick
There are lots of fun tricks to try! Each time you train your pup, you are challenging them mentally to think and problem solve. Training your pup also improves your bond and communication as a team.
- Introduce Something New
Bring your pup to a new place and allow them to sniff or let them meet a new person. This introduces them to a variety of new stimulants and will challenge them mentally as they take it all in.
- Mix And Match
Incorporate some training and obedience work with physical exercise. Ask your dog for a trick before you throw the ball. Take a break between running around at the park to work on some short obedience exercises then go back to play.
- Play Hide And Seek
Tap into your pup’s hunting instincts by hiding treats or toys around the house for your dog to find. You can play with them by bringing them to each hiding spot and celebrating when they find the hidden item or letting them work out the puzzle themselves.
- Give Your Dog A Job
Sometimes when our dogs are not able to do what they were bred to do, it can manifest into unwanted behaviours such as excessive barking, digging or destructive behaviours. Getting your pup involved in activities like agility, retrieving or scent work is a great way to channel their instincts into something productive and fun.
