For those who have a less-active dog and are left wondering if the dog is right for you (as you expected playfulness and fun), then there is a solution. Dogs are not born to be lazy. They are energetic animals who love to play. Therefore, somewhere deep down in your dog is their energetic and playful self. Of which, you might want to bring out of them to make them more active. On that note, here are some tips on how to make your lazy dog more active.
Image by Dan Fador from Pixabay
Use toys
If your dog is avoiding exercise and playfulness on walks or in the house, then you will want to use toys. Toys are there for dogs to be playful as well as healthier. Using a toy like Runball will promote better health for your dog by encouraging them to play and fetch when out on a walk. Taking a toy will engage your dog and enhance their need for play, which will promote better physical health.
Assess your dog’s health
Assessing your dog’s health will help you understand if something wrong is causing them to be lazy. There could be a hidden condition that you aren’t aware of, causing them to want to lie down and rest. Before you start to encourage your dog on more walks and runs, assess your dog’s health by talking to a vet.
Try various activities (other than walking)
Although a walk is an essential part of a dog’s routine, they might feel more encouraged to participate in other activities. The same routine and route might be the possible reason for your dog being lazy.
Instead, you could try agility. This is an obstacle course-style activity that will train your dog as well as make them more active. If you perform the agility training, it will create a stronger bond between you and your dog, and they will understand that you are in control.
Change their diet
Every dog has different nutritional needs and preferences. Thus, trying different foods will help you understand if their diet is making them fatigued and lazy. Ensure that they get plenty of vitamins and minerals, as this will provide them with energy. Vitamins A, D, and E are all essential for a dog’s health and growth. Incorporating calcium-rich foods will also promote bone growth and strength.
Mental stimulation
Sometimes, a dog needs mental stimulation before they get up and get active. They might lie around all day because they are not mentally stimulated.
Try playing hide and seek or test their command skills at home so that their brains can become active, which will encourage them to be playful and might even persuade them to go on a walk. Brain training will strengthen their mental state as well as their physical state. It will create a better bond between you and your dog and make them much happier, encouraging them to be more active.
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