In my daily dog training life I am constantly asked a simple question: How much exercise does my dog need? The answer depends on your dog. When my Collie, Ranger was a puppy, he needed three hours of exercise per day. How did I know he needed that much? When I did not provide him that much he was agitated, barked in the crate, was destructive and was just not as enjoyable to be around.
I probably could have gotten away with less, but what I did was what I recommend for all of my clients: train and exercise at the same time. A walk wasn’t just for exercise, but I worked on training, I chased him (one of his favorite activities) only after he came when I called him. I taught him all kind of silly but mind-exercising activities and tricks including “coffee table” – run around the coffee table, “hand-off” – take whatever object is in my hand as you run by, “nose down” – put your nose down between your paws, etc.
As with most dogs, as he got older his requirements lessened a bit, but he still is very high energy and LOVES training. My other two dogs love it as well. My Sheltie is high-energy as well, and my other Collie, Trooper is much lower energy but loves training.
I always recommend a MINIMUM of an hour of heavy-duty exercise including brisk walks, games of fetch, tug, or running at the dog park in addition to a MINIMUM of 15 minutes of training per day. Start there and adjust it as necessary.
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2 comments:
hi,
What type of exercices do you recommend?
Every day, or should de dog rest one or two days a week?
Thanks a lot
João
From your user name it looks like you do agility which is great. I also like playing Frisbee, fetch, running with dogs, letting dogs play with other dogs, and training. You have to make sure your dog is up for any exercise that you provide. If you have questions about the physical ability of your dog, make sure you get a full vet checkup.
I recommend paying attention to dog's behavior the day following a bout of strenuous exercise. I don't like to see a dog that is really stiff or seems uncomfortable. As dogs get older, their "bounce back" time lessens and it takes more time for them to recover after exercise.
Pay attention to your dog and your vet to determine how much exercise to provide.
You should also join my community at http://www.watchandtrain.com and read my new blogs there as well as join my training forum and listen to my radio show.
Thanks for the question.
Jeff
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