"A Tired Dog is a Happy Dog"

But do you have to rollerblade or be a runner to properly exercise your best friend? Of course not - there are a variety of exercise options to satisfy your dog's needs. Here are ten great ways to do just that.

1. Walk, walk, walk -Walking is a great way to build the bond with your dog, help in many aspects of your training and to stimulate your dog's senses. But best of all it is a great way to exercise your dog with a bit of benefit to you as well.

2. Doggy Daycare - It has become commonplace to take your dog to daycare to socialize and exercise. At our daycare we work to keep the dogs busy all day so they go home tired and ready to rest.

3. Swimming - As with people , swimming for dog is one of the best forms of low impact, rehabilitating exercise available. For an arthritic dog, it may be the only option but even for a dog in good health, swimming (and diving) is a terrific way to stay in shape.

4. Socialization Groups - Dog Parks, Playtime, and Playdays that allow you dog to romp and play with other dogs is a great way to get your dog to exercise. It is that kind of starting and stopping that comes with dogs playing that is particularly effective in shaping up and wearing out your dog.

5. Treadmill or Biking - These are excellent ways of exercising adult dogs that should never be used for puppies under one year (or more for a larger breed). Start slow and work up to a steady pace at regular intervals to create safe and optimal results.

6. Chase-It - Grab a product like the Chase-It, which is a stuffed toy on the end of a rope on a stick. Spin the toy around to get your pet's attention then play 'keep away' with him. It's a great energy burner and also a great motivator for certain dogs.

7. Frisbee or Ball Fetch - Get out there and start throwing the ball or frisbee and send your dog running. This combines a training motivator with a continuous activity that is sure to delight certain dogs.

8. Hiking and Backpacking - If you are fortunate enough to live in an area with rural hiking paths, this is a great way to get your dog in shape and enjoy some nature yourself. You could take it one step further and teach your dog to carry the backpack.

9. Play with the kids - Let face it - both kids and dogs have far more energy than we do at times, so send them out to play together. Let them run and chase (and wear out) each other and they'll each come home tired. Just watch both dog and child for appropriate behavior.

10. Back & Forth Recalls - Combine training with exercise by calling your dog from one person to another. This can be done indoors - call him from one room to another or it can be done outdoors between two or more family members. The more often you reinforce a dog for coming, the better his recall will become.

Anything that gets your dog up and moving can be considered exercise and your dog sure can use a lot of it to be healthy and of course, tired!