Logan Voss
Almost every mammal needs some level of physical activity, and your dog is no exception. Whether you take them for daily walks, play fetch in the backyard, or engage in intense games of tug-of-war, your dog needs exercise every day. Although all pups need some activity, just how much depends on their age, breed, size, health status, and more. For instance, a daily walk might suffice for some dogs, but others may need more strenuous exercise. Follow along to learn the common signs your dog needs more exercise to ensure your furry friend is happy and healthy.
Destructive Behavior
One of the biggest telltale signs of excess energy from lack of exercise is destructive behavior. Whether they keep tearing up your shoes or knocking over fragile items, your pup may need more daily activity. Dogs become bored and anxious when they don’t exercise enough, which can turn into destructive behaviors if their energy builds up to more than they can contain.
Although there could be other underlying problems that cause this behavior, destructive episodes can be reduced by increasing exercise. Be sure to look out for the following actions in your pup to determine whether they need more playtime:
- Getting into the trash
- Going potty indoors
- Chewing shoes and furniture
- Knocking over household items
- Showing aggression toward people and other animals
Weight Gain
Gaining weight is a common sign your pup might need more physical activity. If you notice your dog packing on more weight than necessary, it may be the perfect time to take their daily exercise up a notch. Although diet can also play a significant role in their overall weight, a solid exercise routine is essential for your dog’s strength and health.
Even if your furry friend isn’t a breed that needs a ton of daily exercise, they can still put on weight if they aren’t being active enough. If your pup is one of the easiest breeds to take on walks, you should have no problem getting them up and active. On the other hand, some particular breeds may be more difficult to exercise properly.
Excessive Barking or Whining
Believe it or not, many dogs bark or whine when they’re bored and need more stimulation or activity. Although you might find this behavior irritating, you shouldn’t ignore your pup’s barks, whines, or cries if they haven’t been on a walk in a while. Some dogs bark or whine to get your attention, and others may grab at their leash and head toward the door when they want to go out for a walk.
Sluggishness or Depression
Exercise is vital for physical fitness, but it’s also important for your dog’s mental health. Interestingly, your pup may become depressed if they don’t get enough daily physical activity. Sluggishness or depression can also be symptoms of a deeper health condition, so you should consult your vet for more advice if you notice these things persisting.
