An under-utilized dog is like a bored person: it is dissatisfied, stressed and, when in doubt, looks for tasks for itself, and these are rarely the right ones. If you offer your four-legged friend too little physical or mental activity, you risk a dissatisfied, aggressive dog, barking or destroyed objects. Fortunately, this can be easily avoided: with exercise, play and meaningful mental work.
Every dog breed has its own pace
Inhalt
How much exercise a dog needs depends on its age, breed and character. A greyhound wants to run, a chow chow wants to go for a leisurely walk. That’s why it’s worth getting to know your furry friend – and reading up on how much activity is good for them from breeders or in breed portraits.
Joint activities are ideal for dogs with a great urge to exercise: Jogging or small search games in the park. Dog dancing or agility are also great ways to turn energy into fun and teamwork.
Mental activity – more important than you think
Walking your dog for an hour a day is a must – but not always enough. Particularly lively or intelligent dogs also need mental challenges. If this exercise is lacking, behavioral problems often appear: Nervousness, excessive barking or gnawing furniture. Combined search and retrieve games are very effective. This challenges the dog mentally and gets it moving at the same time.
Chewing makes you happy – and healthy
Chewing bones are more than just a treat. Chewing soothes, strengthens the teeth and can even reduce stress. Dried chews are particularly natural and high quality – for example beef scalp, tendons, udders or lung cubes.
Intelligence toy – head training with a fun factor
The brain also wants to be challenged. There are many different types of intelligence games for dogs – from simple treat hides to complex tasks with sliders or flaps. They promote concentration, patience and problem-solving skills.
Especially on rainy days, when longer walks are not possible, such games are a welcome change. And the joy when the treat is found speaks for itself.
Conclusion:
A dog needs exercise, tasks and closeness. If you give him all this, you will have a balanced companion who feels good – both physically and mentally. And in the end, one thing counts above all: your time together.