13 Reasons Why Playtime Is So Important for Dogs

Engaging in playtime with your pup can help improve their physical, mental, and emotional well-being. However, since all dogs are different, they require different types and amounts of exercise to keep them happy. The amount of play your dog should get depends on its size, breed, age, and overall health, with dogs usually needing between thirty minutes and two hours of exercise each day.

Read on to learn about ways to exercise your pup, signs that indicate they might need more time outdoors, and how playing with them can improve their cognitive and physical well-being.

Categories of Exercise

Getting your dog into an exercise regimen is something that they will grow to enjoy. Start slowly with walks and work your way into longer playtime sessions based on their preferences and ability.

For example, if your dog is young, you might begin with some low-impact exercise for a warm-up and then throw in some strenuous exercise to get their puppy energy out. In contrast, a senior dog might require low-impact exercise with occasional brain exercises.

Since each dog is different, trial and error is a great way to find out what they need. Here are some examples of exercises you can try with your pup:

Low-Impact Exercise

• Walking
• Swimming

Moderate Exercise

• Jogging
• Hiking on a flat trail
• Playing in the park

Strenuous Exercise

• Running
• Hiking
• Swimming
• Playing intense fetch
• Agility training

Exercises for the Brain

• Trying a new walking route (with lots of new smells)
• Training exercises
• Hanging out with other pups
• Playing games that involve puzzles
• Agility training

Remember, all dogs have different preferences and activity levels. Therefore, it is important to observe their response to each of the exercises. Your dog should be happily tired and not exhausted after each play session. If you have any questions on how much exercise your dog should be doing, be sure to ask your vet.

Signs Your Dog Is Not Getting Enough Playtime

When your dog is not getting enough exercise through playtime, you might start seeing some noticeable signs. From weight gain to hyperactivity, there are a variety of indications you can look out for.

Here are some signs that your dog doesn’t get enough playtime:

• Weight gain – If your dog has been looking a little more plump than usual, it may be an indication that they are overdue for some exercise. Remember to start small and build up their endurance before you get them involved with intense exercise!
• House destruction – Destructive behavior is an indication that your dog is bored and looking for ways to release their energy. Signs of house destruction include chewing items, scratching at doors or carpeting, raiding trash cans, and other behaviors you don’t want.
• Excessive vocalness – Pups that feel restless might bark or whine a lot more than usual. While this could be an indication of illness, it could also mean that they need more exercise and are trying to communicate that with you.
• Stiffness – A sedentary lifestyle in older dogs can lead to muscle loss and painful joints. When this occurs, be sure to consult with your vet to find a way to ease them back into regular exercise patterns that won’t cause further damage.

If your dog is experiencing any of the above, it is time to get them out and about so they can regain their well-being. Plus, we know they will love some outdoor bonding time with their human!

Our 13 Playtime Benefits for Physical, Mental, and Emotional Wellness

Just as humans need exercise for 30 minutes a day to maintain their well-being, so do dogs. Discover the physical, mental, and emotional benefits of giving your pup some playtime.

Physical Benefits

• Cardiovascular health – Getting your dog’s heart pumping can improve their cardiovascular health. This can prevent health-related issues and help them maintain a healthy circulatory system.
• Muscle development – Tug-of-war, fetch, and other activities help dogs build their muscles up, which can lead to better posture, mobility, and strength.
• Weight management – Burning off calories leads to a healthy weight which prevents issues related to obesity.
• Coordination and balance – Improve your pup’s motor skills and agility by throwing them a ball or making them navigate obstacles.
• Endurance – When you get your dog to engage in regular activity, you slowly build their endurance over time which allows them to play longer without fatigue.

Mental Benefits

• Enhanced problem-solving – Playtime is able to promote problem-solving skills by letting dogs navigate obstacles or overcome other challenges.
• Improved memory – By encouraging your pup to remember sequences, commands, and tricks, you can strengthen their cognitive recall abilities and keep their minds sharp.
• Stress relief – Mentally stimulating activities can help reduce anxiety and stress in your pup, which promotes relaxation and well-being (for both you and your dog)!
• Expression of natural instincts – Chasing, fetching, tugging, and exploring are all part of a dog’s natural instincts. Giving them the opportunities to do these activities fulfills their natural instincts and is psychologically and emotionally rewarding.

Emotional Benefits

• Coping with separation – If you are getting ready to leave for an extended period of time, engaging in playtime beforehand can provide your dog with comfort and reduce a lot of separation anxiety they might face otherwise.
• Better mood – Getting dogs to release their energy can lead to a better demeanor overall. They will often exhibit jubilance and fewer signs of behavioral issues.
• An outlet for excess energy – Playtime can release excess energy, promoting a calm demeanor, making things easier both for your pup and you.
• Emotional support – Spending time with your dog can satisfy their need for engagement and socialization, which reduces feelings of loneliness or isolation. This can also strengthen the bond between you and your furry friend.

Allow Us to Help Your Dog Get Adequate Playtime

If there are times you’re unable to give your dog adequate exercise, the team at Pet Palace is happy to step in! Whether you experience busy days at work or regularly need to run errands, our doggy day care is the perfect solution for getting your pup moving around while you’re away.

The team at Pet Palace effectively balances playtime with personal attention and rest. We take care of your pet like they are one of our own, making us the perfect destination for your day care needs! In addition to lots of playtime outside and socialization with their puppy pals, we also offer the following:

• An individual villa with heating and air conditioning
• Quality bedding material for nap times
• Feeding sessions based on the duration of stay
• Fresh drinking water
• Bathroom breaks
• Medication and health monitoring, if necessary

Our facility also offers grooming for when your pet needs some TLC and boarding for the nights when you want to make sure your furry friend is in good hands.

Schedule an Appointment at Pet Palace Today

Engage in playtime with your pup for at least 30 minutes each day to enhance their well-being and overall mood.

Remember that our team is here to help out if you aren’t able to give them the exercise they need to stay happy and healthy. Be sure to contact us today with any questions you might have about our services!

Additional Resources to Check Out

The Benefits of Socializing Your Dog

12 Rainy Day Activities for Your Pet

The Importance of Dog Enrichment

Categories: Dog Daycare, Dogs, Tips for Your Pets