7 clever ways to motivate your lazy dog to exercise

For people with a hyper-alert or energetic dog, seeing or meeting a lazy dog might be a surprise. But the truth is that just like there are hyper dogs, low-key dogs don’t care much for exercise or moving around.

Suppose you have a canine couch potato who is only interested in lounging around and relaxing at any chance. In that case, you must find a way to motivate him to exercise so he doesn’t become overweight or inactive.

Being overweight and inactive can have serious health implications and even shorten your dog’s life.

Even if you want to motivate your lazy dog to exercise, you should probably not compare your dog’s amount of exercise with that of other dogs because your dog may be a less active breed.

You should also factor in your dog’s personality and, most importantly, any health issues that may cause it to be lazy.

Some dogs are lazy and reluctant to move because of joint pain, medical conditions, diseases like anemia, cancer, or nutritional deficiency.

After considering these factors and consulting your vet, if you want to get your puppy to exercise, here are seven clever ways for dog owners to motivate a lazy dog.

1. Try toys

You’ve probably tried throwing balls or Frisbees without arousing your lazy dog’s interest or getting his attention. But have you tried all kinds of toys, including DIY dog toys?

Not all dogs have that retriever instinct, so they may not respond to balls or frisbees.

But that doesn’t mean they will ignore all toys. Maybe you haven’t found the right one yet. There are a variety of toys you can try:

Puzzles

Puzzles and interactive dog toys challenge your dog by hiding treats or food for the dog to find. These toys provide mental stimulation and help dogs struggling with separation anxiety.

Toys or food puzzles, such as a snuffle mat or a Kong stuffed with peanut butter and some of its kibble and then frozen, will also keep your dog busy.

Tug-of-war toys

Despite what some trainers warn, no evidence playing tug with your dog will make him aggressive or dominant.

Playing tug with your dog is excellent mental and physical exercise, and it’s also a good way to help your dog become more confident.

Stuffed toys

Stuffed or plush toys provide multiple play options. Some dogs cuddle with the toys, while others toss and chase them.

If your dog chews up a stuffed toy that makes noise, pick up the squeaker so the dog won’t choke on it. And don’t let your pup eat the stuffing, either.

Avoid giving plush toys to aggressive chewers.

Glowing dog toys

Lighted dog toys provide another method of stimulating your dog and can make playing in the dark fun.

Talking toys

Toys that talk, play music, or make realistic animal sounds can encourage your lazy dog to play.

Floating toys

Floating dog toys help stimulate dogs that love to play in the water.

2. Exercise in small doses

You’ll unlikely be able to easily make a dog that hates exercising take a 20- to 30-minute walk. Start small and be consistent. Rather than a 20-minute walk, try a 5- or 10-minute walk instead.

Keep the first few walks short and sweet. Add fun and treats so your dog will happily join you on the next walk.

3. Create a routine for your dog 

Creating a schedule is the best way to get a lazy dog used to exercising.

Motivating your dog will be hard if you’re inconsistent and only walk your dog occasionally.

Your dog wants to spend time with you, so schedule a daily walk at a time that works for you. However, keep your dog’s needs in mind.

Not all dogs will wake up at 6 a.m. to jog with their owners. Find a time that works for both of you and stick with it.

4. Choose the right activity

Although taking dogs for walks is the most common exercise for dogs, if your dog is lazy, consider other activities.

Try to find something that your dog is enthusiastic about doing. Some dogs may be lazy, but when they see a chew toy or a ball, their eyes spark enthusiastically and are ready to move fast.

Try new things, such as an obstacle course, agility tunnels, play dates with other dogs, or puzzle toys that provide mental stimulation.

5. Don’t just tell, show your dog

Many dogs adjust their activity level to their owners’ activity level. And if your dog is clingy, you’re more likely to be able to get your dog to move if you move. You can’t sit on a bench in the park, throw the ball, and expect your dog to get it. He’ll most likely lie on the ground beside you.

You can walk together or take your dog jogging around the neighborhood if you’re active. You can also consider taking your dog hiking, camping, or kayaking.

6. Allow your dog to socialize

Most dogs become active around other dogs like themselves. You can try arranging a play date with a friend’s dog. This could motivate your dog to move around out of curiosity about the other dog or a new environment.

Apart from play dates, you can allow your dog to participate in competitions and games with other dogs. This way, your dog is socially active and can meet other dogs.

7. Let your dog be the leader 

We can get caught up with work or other things, but you should know your dog’s wishes. When you notice he is restless or keeps standing beside the door or bringing his toy or ball to you, that’s a sign that he’s in a good mood and ready to play.

Don’t abandon him; entertain him and take advantage of his energetic moments, even if they occur outside of his scheduled playtime.

Are health problems sapping your dog’s energy?

Laziness in dogs can be a sign of an underlying health issue.

It is essential to address potential health concerns to ensure your pet’s well-being.

Here are some common health issues that may cause your dog’s laziness:

Pain or discomfort

Dogs may become lethargic or inactive when they experience pain or discomfort.

This can be due to arthritis, injuries, or dental problems.

Thyroid problems

Hypothyroidism, a condition in which the thyroid gland does not produce enough hormones, can lead to lethargy and weight gain in dogs.

Heart problems

Heart disease or other cardiovascular issues can cause a dog to be less active and appear lazy.

Infections

Bacterial, viral, or parasitic infections can drain a dog’s energy and lead to lethargy.

Nutritional imbalances

Poor diet or nutritional deficiencies can impact a dog’s overall energy levels and activity.

It is essential to consult a veterinarian to address these potential health issues.

To identify the root cause of the dog’s laziness, a thorough physical examination, and any necessary diagnostic tests may be required.

Treatment will depend on the diagnosed health issue and may include medication, dietary changes, or other interventions to help improve the dog’s overall health and energy levels.

Find what works to motivate your lazy dog

Don’t be discouraged if you have a low-energy dog. There are several ways to motivate your lazy dog to be active as long as he or she has no health issues.

You also have to be careful not to overdo it and patiently learn what activity works for your dog and what activity doesn’t.

Scott Mathews is a professional writer at Assignment Man and is known as a professional assignment helper to many of his students. He enjoys writing and regularly contributes to several blogs. Apart from providing case study help, he is also an expert at helping students with math homework. He has also written an academic review or two, like the Grade Miners review.

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