How To Keep Your Puppy Mentally and Physically Fit
All your questions about exercise and playtime for your dog, answered
Good Dog is on a mission to educate the public, support dog breeders, and promote canine health so we can give our dogs the world they deserve.
Meg playing with a ball. (Credit: Amanda Cross)
Good Dog is on a mission to educate the public, support dog breeders, and promote canine health so we can give our dogs the world they deserve.
Good Dog is on a mission to educate the public, support dog breeders, and promote canine health so we can give our dogs the world they deserve.
By Rae Paoletta
Dogs are highly motivated to engage in species-typical behaviors like chewing, digging, chasing, or retrieving. Puppies require daily exercise and regular playtimes to relieve these urges.
Play helps your dog develop social skills, provides exercise, and offers a constructive release for their puppy energy. It’s also an important way to establish — and maintain — a connection between you and your dog.
Expert Tip: Manage play and exercise to ensure that it is safe and healthy for your puppy’s growing body.
Did you know? Mental exercise is just as important as physical exercise. Giving your puppy opportunities to enrich their mind is important for healthy development and growth. Puzzle toys challenge your puppy, provide them a positive outlet for their energy, and lead to improved cognitive ability — who doesn’t want a smarter puppy?
Further Reading
For more information on exercise and play:
