Commands, rewards, and behavioral techniques…this is what a lot of us hooman folks think of when it comes to dog training. However, one crucial element that often gets overlooked is physical activity.
Just like humans, dogs need regular exercise to stay healthy, both physically and mentally. But did you know that physical activity can also play a significant role in improving your dog’s training success?
In this blog post, we’ll explore how regular exercise can enhance your dog’s ability to learn, focus, and respond to training.
A tired dog is often a more focused dog. Physical activity helps release pent-up energy, which, when left unchecked, can lead to distractions, restlessness, and undesirable behaviors during training.
If your dog has a lot of energy, they may struggle to focus on commands or tasks. When dogs are physically active, their bodies and brains release endorphins, which help them feel calm and relaxed. This makes it easier for them to engage in training, as they are not distracted by the need to burn off energy.
For example, a high-energy dog who has just had a long walk or run is more likely to sit calmly during a training session than a dog who hasn’t had any physical activity. By incorporating physical exercise into your dog’s routine before training, you can improve their ability to stay focused, follow commands, and retain information.
Exercise doesn’t just help with focus; it may also help reduce many common behavioral problems, such as excessive barking, jumping, chewing, and digging.
These behaviors are often a result of boredom or a lack of stimulation. When a dog doesn’t get enough exercise, they may engage in destructive behaviors to release their extra energy. By providing regular physical activity, you are giving your dog an outlet for this energy, which can reduce the occurrence of these frustrating behaviors.
Physical activity, such as walks, runs, or play sessions with other dogs, also helps improve your dog’s socialization skills. A well-socialized dog is more likely to respond positively to new situations, environments, and people, which can make training easier. If your dog is anxious or fearful in certain situations, regular physical activity can help them feel more confident and less reactive.
For instance, if you are training your dog to behave calmly around other dogs or people, physical exercise can reduce the level of anxiety they may feel. After a good walk or play session, your dog may feel more relaxed and open to new experiences, making it easier to reinforce training in various environments.
Training and exercise go hand in hand. For example, you can incorporate training commands during playtime, such as teaching your dog to fetch a ball and return it to you. You could also work on basic obedience commands, like “sit” or “stay,” while out on a walk. By combining physical activity and training, you create a dynamic learning experience for your dog, which can enhance the effectiveness of both.
You don’t need to choose between physical activity and training — you can do both! Here are a few ideas to incorporate training into your dog’s exercise routine:
