National Pet Month is here, and as a nation of dog lovers, we sometimes find ourselves rewarding our pooch with extra treats as praise.
But before you reach for the treat tin, it is worth knowing that 90% of dog owners have admitted to feeding their dogs unhealthy food, and 1 in 3 dogs are overweight. (You may also like to read: 5 Healthy Dog Biscuit Recipes) Why not show your appreciation for your four-legged friend by trying out some fun and unique exercises.
Not only do these workouts keep your pup in top shape, but they also help to build trust and limit attention-seeking behaviours.
For thrill-seeking pups, an exciting activity is flyball. This high-speed race involves two teams of four dogs springing over a series of jumps to activate a catapult, which releases a ball for them to retrieve and bring back to their owner.
Another fun exercise to try is disc dog, which is a more extreme version of fetch.
Indoor activities such as setting up an obstacle course or playing tug of war with your pooch can also provide daily fitness, which is important for their health.
Always consult a vet or dog care professional if you are unsure about how much exercise your dog needs. For more tips on keeping your dog fit and healthy, check out this guide to creative canine fitness by Sainsbury’s Bank.