Exercise is important for most pets, except those with medical problems that limit activity. Fitness in pets, as in humans, offers medical and psychological benefits. Fit pets live healthier more active lives in their later years. Regular exercise strengthens a pet's bones and muscles. Strong muscles help stabilize joints and in dogs may slow the progression of degenerative joint diseases such as hip dysplasia and arthritis.
Exercise also strengthens the heart and lungs.
Exercise can also have emotional benefits. In dogs, those that receive regular exercise are less likely to have behavioral problems such as constant barking, destructive chewing, and self-mutilation. The first step in a fitness program in dogs is to take your pet to the veterinarian for a weigh-in and health check that checks on the heart, lungs, muscles, bones and joints. Then you and your veterinarian can select appropriate exercises. A discussion about appropriate nutrition is also important at this visit.