I WANT TO DO SPORTS WITH MY DOG!

 It's official! Warmer weather approaches and the days are getting longer and longer, which is enough to boost our motivation, make us want to go out and get back into sports! If you have a dog, he too can look forward to more frequent and longer walks with you, especially since your best furry friend can also accompany you during your sports activities.

 Just like humans, physical activity for dogs has many benefits for their physical and mental balance. For many canines, it is limited to walks and runs in a field or garden. Nevertheless, it can be more advanced. Sport allows first of all to develop its physical capacities and to maintain its condition in order to prevent health problems. The most common concern in sedentary or not very active dogs is overweight. Also, sport is particularly recommended for very dynamic dogs who have difficulty to control their behaviour. Practicing a sport with your dog is also a unique way to socialize him and to strengthen his relationship with him through play, education and complicity.

       First of all, you should make sure that your dog is fit for a particular sport. This is determined according to his weight, age and size. For example, it is important to avoid overexerting a young dog who is still growing and whose joints are fragile by offering him a physical activity that is too intense and therefore not adapted.

       All dogs can do sports, it is up to you to evaluate which one by taking into account all its criteria or get advice from an animal health professional. Several types of activities are possible: a dog sport, therefore entirely dedicated to your pet, or the practice of your sport where the dog acts as a more or less active companion!

       Many dog sports have been created such as agility, jumping or flyball. These are competitive sports where the education must be solid and the communication between the human and his dog perfect. Also, it is totally possible to practice usual sports with your dog such as walking, cycling or jogging.

 The dog must be equipped with quality, comfortable and robust equipment that ensures its safety. He must not be hindered in his movements, which in the context of a sport, are repetitive, intense and over a long period of time. It is therefore essential that he feels perfectly at ease. The equipment must also ensure his safety by being perfectly adjusted, thus avoiding runaways.

       During physical activity, remember to offer him water regularly. In the same spirit, avoid practicing sports right after his meal to ensure good digestion. Also, it is not advisable to practice sports in very hot weather, it is not good for you or for your dog.

       Finally, during the parasite season, avoid tall grass and woods that are full of insects. Your dog goes out a lot, so think about a preventive treatment. And, after each walk, examine your dog to determine whether a tick is present.

In conclusion, practicing a sport with your dog has many benefits, both for his health and for the consolidation of your beautiful friendship!