Fido Fitness
Guide To Getting Your Charleston Dog in Shape
Is Fido looking more like a footstool than a fit poodle? Maybe Gus is more fluff than buff? Then it’s time to get off the couch and commit to the ol’ New Year’s resolution – get in shape.
Your dog’s fitness is just as important as yours, and the good news is you can improve together. Just tell yourself that those sad puppy dog eyes are asking to go for a walk rather than for a treat. Don’t try to use “it’s too cold to go for a walk” as an excuse because there are lots of fun indoor activities that help burn a few calories. Here are a few tips to help get your big ol’ mutt in shape.
Play
Playtime isn’t just for puppies! Dogs of all ages get great physical and mental benefits from short periods of play throughout their days. Whether it’s tugging on a rope toy or chasing after their favorite Fluff & Tuff toy, playtime provides stimulation and helps deepen the bond between you and your pet. Greta, Dolittle’s resident Vizsla, loves to play fetch down the hallway. Owner Ric Sommons likes to challenge her “When Greta brings her toy back I have her jump through a circle I make with my arms. I like building actions on actions for her.” Get creative and have some fun with your pup!
Train
Many dogs, especially working breeds, need mental stimulation to keep them happy. Daily training gives your pup tasks to keep them active mentally, promotes positive behavior and improves communication. For puppies, we offer a six week Puppy 101 class that covers all those important basic commands and training theory. If your dog is already a sit, stay and shake expert, try broadening their trick book with a high five or a rollover. All those new skills will come in handy when you and your pup strut around town at Second Sunday on King Street.
Eat
Just as good food is essential for our well-being, a nutritious, balanced and wholesome diet is crucial to your dog staying healthy and happy. Be mindful of the food you put in your dog’s body. Look for quality, natural dog foods, and don’t forget about portion control! While dog food bags provide suggested portion sizes, we find that most dogs typically need less than the suggestion. Our best advice: Feed the dog you have. The more active your dog is, the more calories they may need.
Treat
We know, we know. We all love to pamper our pups with a treat or two, or three, or seven. Unfortunately, because many treats are loaded with carbohydrates our generosity can become part of the problem. The good news is that there are lots of low carb options, like those from Polkadog.
Keep in mind that a treat doesn’t always have to be a treat. We can treat our pudgy pugs with other things like squeaky toys or extra cuddles. Your dog’s food will also make a fine treat. Don’t worry, we won’t tell them. You can also make food time into fun time with a selection of our food *ahem* TREAT dispensing toys.
Exercise
There’s nothing more adorable than watching your dog curl up in a ball and take a snooze on the couch. While it’s tempting to let your pup nap the day away, it’s important to not let them lead a sedentary life. Just as we humans need regular exercise every day, your dog needs an hour or two of exercise daily in order to live a long, healthy life.
We’re lucky to have many incredible, beautiful places to take your dog to get some exercise in the Lowcountry. Whether it’s a swim off the shore of Sullivan’s Island, a walk along the battery, or a long run down the West Ashley Greenway (Greta’s favorite activity), Charleston is packed with places you and your pup can both be active! Remember to keep your dog and yourself hydrated and cool while outside, especially on those hot Southern days.
Our advice on walking your dog is to start around the house. Get those basic manners in check before walking in public. Also, toss out that extra long or extendable leash. A simple six foot or shorter leash will offer plenty of opportunities to sniff all the sniffs. Sure, it might take a second or two longer to get to the source but just enjoy the stroll.
There you have it, a bunch of ideas to get your new year off on the right paw. Before you know it the pounds will be falling off you and your best friend! Now, about the cat...