2 Basic Needs A New Dog Owner Must Get Used To: Exercise & Grooming

Exercise makes all of us healthier, even our dogs.  Much like a sedentary human, a dog who does not get regular exercise may become overweight and lethargic, putting extra strain on the dogs heart and lungs, and increasing his likelihood of major health conditions including diabetes and heart disease.  Providing regular exercise for a pet is a big part of responsible pet ownership.

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One solution is to get littermates when it’s time for a new puppy.  Having a constant playmate and companion will create many natural opportunities for active play and exercise.  Of course, two puppies are twice the work of one puppy, so ensure you have the space, time and ability to care for two small dogs before taking on such a responsibility.

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Providing a regular exercise routine for a dog will go a long way in ensuring a long and happy life.  It can be as simple as a few vigorous walks and a couple of active play sessions.  The important thing is to start when the dog is young.   If we teach our kids healthy habits when they are small, they are more likely to grow to be healthy adults – it’s the same with dogs.  A healthy, happy puppy will grow to be a healthy happy dog.

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Other fun ways to provide exercise for the family dog is to engage in regular games of fetch.  Tossing a tennis ball for a dog in the back yard for half an hour can provide a lot of benefits.  Going to the local dog park will allow a dog to play with other dogs, providing them all with lots of aerobic activity.

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Several breeds of dogs make excellent running or jogging companions.  Sporting breeds, especially, are very effective running partners.  If you’re looking for a dog to join you on a run, do some research with your vet or at the library to find a breed that is perfect for you.  Having a dog to run with may even increase your willingness to go out for a run each day. 

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Grooming

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Grooming requirements vary from dog to dog, and will depend on a variety of factors including coat thickness, texture and length.  Some short haired dogs will only require a weekly brushing and the occasional bath, some long haired dogs may require special brushes and a daily grooming routine.   Certain high maintenance dogs, such as poodles, may need an extensive primping ritual every day. 

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The type of grooming depends on the type of dog that you will be getting. If you love to play hairdresser for your dog, you would want to get a long-haired or double-coated breed. If you do not enjoy grooming your dog, you don’t want a dog that sheds hair heavily; choose one that has a short or medium length coat. Curly-coated dogs do not shed hair heavily and you can choose to brush it once or twice a week.