There are so many ways to exercise with your dog. Find out about all the fun things you can do on and off the leash.

A dog gives your entire family a dependable friend to play and exercise with. While walks on a leash are perhaps the most common activity, there are so many other ways that the two of you can enjoy physical activities together. 

Many towns have dog parks where you can exercise and socialize your dog off leash. These areas provide an excellent way for your dog to meet other dogs, and for you to get acquainted with fellow dog-lovers.  Other fun activities might include ball and Frisbee throwing, and teaching your dog tricks.

If you’re interested in more structured activities, you can investigate:

• Agility trials,
• Canine freestyle (dancing with your dog)
• Fly ball competitions
• Obedience and rally competitions

You can also do social/therapy volunteer work with your dog.  There are several organizations that will train, test and certify both you and your dog to visit people in convalescent homes and other facilities.  Sharing the love of your dog with others is more than fun -- it also provides stress relief, can lower blood pressures and heart rates and helps cheer those with depression. 

Strengthen your relationship by playing with your dog today.