It is all good and well for us to be fit and active but when it comes to our pets we need to keep their heart rates up, this doesn’t mean an hour-long run once a week but more of a regular energy exertion session to help stimulate blood flow and grow and develop their muscles.
Dogs will mimic our routines, if exercising and getting outdoors is the norm then they will think nothing of waiting at the car to hop in and head to the park, but you need to be consistent. It will benefit both of you to be in the fresh air and it is a great way for your pet to socialize and meet new friends.
Outdoor activities.
There are so many effortless activities you can begin implementing into your daily and weekly schedule with your dog, getting the kids involved helps to build a bond and stronger relationship. Yes, a long walk is always achievable, but let us take a quick look at others you can try (you might end up liking it more than you initially thought), and if any appeals to you then you are off to a good start.
- Dogs have a big endurance for long distances and it will only increase as they build up their fitness, an easy cycle around the park while he trots alongside is fun and easy.
- This may not sound like it breaks a sweat but setting up camp, for the family and pups, and taking an easy hike up the mountain trail will get the blood flowing before you know it. Then when you get back to base you can all relax next to the fire under the stars and do it all again the next day. Win-win.
- An old-school classic that will never die, and like the old saying goes, if it isn’t broke why fix it, right? You could throw a ball, a thick stick found along the way to the fields, or a childhood original, the Frisbee. No matter what you opt to use your four-legged friend is just happy to be with you, outdoors, and part of the activities.
- If you are fortunate to live near the beach or even a lake or dam then a full-body workout is a must, hot summer days can be filled with hours playing in the water. There is a less negative impact on joints for everyone and you won’t even realize the energy you burn because you will be having so much fun, and isn’t that the way exercising should be.
There are a whole host of other options suited to all ages, fitness levels, and lifestyles, see here https://outdoordogfun.com/fun-things-to-do-with-your-dog-outside/ for a look at others that could fit your schedule and match your dog’s personality and breed type.
Healthy diet healthy lifestyle.
It is our responsibility to provide a vitamin-rich meal plan for our pets, a diet that consists of organic and natural ingredients and that will fuel their daily activities. And this begins at home.
Too often pet owners simply opt for the easiest, quickest, and generic brands they find in-store when it comes to dog food yet wonder why their dog isn’t looking as healthy or as polished as others whose owners take the time to research, plan, and create well-balanced meals.
There is no trick, no secret you haven’t been let in on, it is all about making the effort and commitment to give your puppy the quality of life he deserves and to age well as he approaches his golden years.
No two dogs are alike, as much as you may think they are simply because they come from the same breed. If you have a unique, character-rich pet, then you will know all about your Cairn terrier personality and how no matter the amount of advice other pet owners give you, you know what your pup does or does not like. You have probably tried the fashion-forward dog dinner recipes from the latest and greatest chefs gracing the TV, but the basics never fail, and home-grown produce is always a winner.
When your dog eats well, they feel better, they are more active and have a better mood, and it all reflects back to you so the whole family is seen in a better light.
Meal ideas.
Wanting to give your four-legged friend a new meal taste other than the boring day-to-day Monday meal you could prepare with your eyes closed is great, but always be sure to chat to your vet for advice or guidance on specific foods. Even more so if your puppy is a thorough breed with specific nutritional requirements that if not met could lead to the onset of allergies and complications.
Some great ideas in this link will help to get you started but if you are new or nervous to try a completely new dish (and not wanting to taste it yourself), then the best advice is to take it one ingredient at a time. Incorporate them gradually replacing them with others and see how well, or not, your dog eats that evening. The amount of leftover food is a quick indication of whether they like something or not.
If there is a lot leftover, make a note of the product and put it on the back burner to perhaps try differently, not ruling it out altogether till you, and they, are sure. This is a journey to enjoy together, let’s make the most of it.
