The English Bulldog Puppy Blog

The rate of dog obesity has steadily increased based on the Veterinary Economics report that 40% of US dogs are overweight and National Academies’ Research Council showing 25% of pets in Western societies are obese. Don’t let your pet dog balloon to a weight that falls under the obesity category. Know tips on how to make your pet as healthy as it should in the New Year.

Let your dog make your resolutions for you in the year 2010. Your dog is bound to be your lifelong loyal and loving companion, the least you can do is to promote its wellness. We recommend resolutions that will leave you AND your dog feeling vibrant and great – without any need to wear spandex, spinning classes, or low fat dressing.

Resolution 1: Quality walks

Puppies never refuse the chance to go out for a walk. Resolve to take your pet to walk the same old stroll up the block and back. Your dog will appreciate new scents and sounds in as much as you enjoy new scenery. Mix up weekday walks with new routes, unfamiliar trails, unchartered side streets. On weekends, explore new neighborhoods. You can also research dog-friendly hiking spots in your area.

Resolution 2: Less hugs, play more tugs

Hugs can do wonders but is not exactly the same case for dogs. A nice and long hug can make your dog squirm and wriggle out of your arms. It’s a canine thing to feel trapped. Why don’t you play tug with your dog? A hearty round of tug played appropriately can be a huge stress reliever as an exercise. This is an activity when DROP IT and OFF are important commands to teach your pup.

Premier Busy Buddy Bouncy Bone Dog Toy

Resolution 3: Introduce new toys

Toys need not to be store-bought new toys just as long as they’re new to your dog. It hasn’t seen the toys before or at least in a very long time. Swap toys with your dog-lover friends and neighbors. You can trade toys every few weeks so your dog can have something new to charge, change, or chew on.

Resolution 4: Party, party, party

Parties do not mean fancy birthday fete or a bark mitzvah. A rendezvous with two of your dog’s fave people who adore your dog will do. Play a few of his well-loved game or simply ask invitees to practice a couple basic commands with your dog. It is an opportunity for your dog to be praised, treated and rewarded by someone else. It is great for socialization and to boost its confidence.

Resolution 5: Outdoor bonding with your dog

Agility classes are a perfect combination of mental stimulation, physical activity, and most of all teambuilding between you and your best friend. Man and dogs both have a ball to practice agility skills. If pole and tire hoops seem like an intimidating play for your dog, consider a Canine Good Citizen class. It is a program designed by the AKC and offered in cities across the country designed to promote responsible ownership and well-mannered dogs. Not only are you brushing up your training techniques, your dog also gets refresher course in good behavior.

Resolution 6: keep my dog physically fit

The last resolution requires willpower to follow through daily walks with your dog, healthy food, and more games of fetch. It is true that the pleading puppy eyes are enough to make you melt at your defenses and give your dog his stash of treats. Remember how important your dog’s health just as you would take care of your own health. A man’s best friend needs his daily dose of health booster in any way your dog can.

written by Toni S.

Technorati Tags: canine health, english bulldog, exercise, resolutions to keep dog healthy