Just like humans, your dog needs to get enough exercise to keep healthy and maintain an appropriate weight. You can generally know when your dog is lacking exercise when he or she becomes bored, lethargic, or frustrated. This can manifest itself as destructive behavior or aggression.
How much exercise your dog requires depends on the breed, size, age, and other health factors. For example, for some dogs, a daily walk is fine. However, for other large, energetic breeds, a quick walk isn’t enough physical activity.
Here are some common indicators that your pet pooch isn’t getting the amount of exercise they require.
1. Becoming overweight
One of the tell-tale signs that your furry friend needs more exercise is weight gain. Along with increasing daily walks and exercising, you may also need to check how much you are feeding your pet. A combination of poor diet and lack of physical activity can see your pet dog quickly piling on the pounds.
If your dog is severely obese, you should pay a visit to your local vet to get professional advice on an appropriate exercise and diet plan for your pet.
2. Destructive behavior
Another sign that your pet pooch is lacking exercise is destructive behavior. All dogs need an outlet for their energy. If they can’t release pent-up energy by walking, running, or exercising, your dog may start acting badly.
Some signs of destructive dog behavior patterns are chewing items around the home, getting into the trash can, or pooping in inappropriate places.
3. Restlessness
Your pet may show signs of being overexcited when you take him out or you get their lead. Of course, some dogs are more excitable than others, but changes in your dog’s behavior may be a sign that you need to exercise him more.
4. Being withdrawn or depressed
On the other hand, some dogs become withdrawn when they lack physical and mental stimulation. This type of behavior can manifest itself by being disinterested in what’s happening, laying in the corner all the time, or not engaging with you.
Of course, there are other reasons for this type of behavior. Therefore, you should arrange for a checkup at the vets to check for an underactive thyroid gland or other underlying condition.
5. Stiffness
Have you noticed that your pet dog is having difficulty getting around recently? Is he reluctant to climb stairs or does he have difficulty sleeping? These could be signs that your dog needs to get more exercise.
A sedentary lifestyle for your pet can result in stiff and tense muscles. This can lead to muscle weakness and pain when moving. Regular exercise helps to keep muscles and ligaments relaxed and loose as well as maintaining strength.
With older dogs, there could be a chance that stiffness when walking is down to arthritis. So, it’s maybe a good idea to get your pet dog’s health checked out.
5. Excessing barking
Constant barking may also be your dog’s way of telling you that they are needing more exercise.
You will find that your own health will improve if you take your dog for daily walks and ensure that he gets enough exercise.