Experts say that our four-legged friends are heavier than ever. Sadly, most dogs won’t exercise when they are outdoors by themselves. So let’s go out, play and have some fun with the dogs we love!

Walks

All dogs need to be taken on daily walks, runs, jogs, bike rides or rollerblading trips – any means you have to get your dog moving. This is because dogs are walkers and travellers by instinct.

It’s very easy to make walks more interesting for your dog. You can start by letting your dog carry a safe pet object like a box or a toy. Letting your dog play with other dogs is also a great way to get your dog to exercise whilst socialising.  

In addition to being great exercise for you and your dog, walking is an activity almost anyone can participate in and a great way to get to know people. You can organize or join a monthly, weekly, or even daily walking group within your neighbourhood or area. It’s easy to keep it interesting by choosing different locations. For example, dogs love parks, canals, rivers and you might even be able to find dog-friendly stores and cafes.

Games

Here are 9 great games you can play with your dog:

1. Fetch

You can use any safe retrievable object or your dog’s favourite toy for this. Simply throw the toy or object and tell your dog to fetch it and return it to you.

2. Frisbee

You both can exercise with this very physical game which is perfect for the overly active dog. Your dog should try to catch the Frisbee in midair or otherwise, and bring it back to you.

3. Hula hoop

This is a game you can play indoors or outdoors, start with a hoop appropriate to the size of your dog. Begin the game by laying the loop on the ground. If your dog figures out that they has to be in the center of the circle, praise or reward them. After they're used to this you can play with your dog by teaching them to jump through the hoop standing on its side, raised inches above the ground.

4. Treasure hunt

Dogs will love using their noses and powers of concentration in this game which you can play indoors or outdoors. Start with a treat that your dog really likes, show your dog the treat, and have your dog watch you put it behind a couch. Gradually make it harder for your dog to find the treat.

5. You’re hired!

Dogs like to work. Teach your dog to bring in the newspaper, carry mail for you or to walk out with you and help when you take the rubbish out.

6. Football

Kick the ball away from your dog and get him to chase after it. Once he gets it let him play with it for a bit, then kick or step it away from him again. Football is best played with a larger ball that is not easy to puncture. Pick a larger sized ball so that it is difficult for your dog to keep the ball in his mouth and to chew on it. This also makes it easier for you to tackle the ball away from your dog.

7. Tunnel

Make a tunnel or maze with some old cardboard boxes or chairs and encourage your dog to explore and go through it. Go along the side of the tunnel and wait for them on the other side of the tunnel.

8. Jogging with your dog

Jogging with your dog can be very healthy for the both of you. Here are a few pointers: 1. No lead pulling, your dog should be at your side or slightly in front of you. 2. If your dog tends to mark a lot, keep away from bushes, upright poles, and trees. 3. Remember to stop every now and then to allow your dog to recover (have some water handy too).

9. Splash

This game is great for dogs that like water and it’s a good way to cool down on hot days. Use your hose to shoot a jet of water. Move it around to entice your dog to chase after the stream. Occasionally stop the stream where it is so the dog can actually get it; never spray the dog forcefully in the face. The farther and faster you move the stream the more exercise this will be for your dog without you having to get tired.