Get Lazy Dogs Outside

Let's face it, after spending hours indoors, dogs need a large area to stretch their legs and freely roam. They need a chance to absorb sunlight (good for the soul) and warm up after hanging out inside the air conditioned house all day. Summer is the best time of year to get dogs out and moving. 

Dogs that stay inactive risk health issues such as weak bones and obesity. In the Association for Pet Obesity Prevention's 2017 clinical survey, 56% of dogs and 60% of cats were classified as clinically overweight (body condition score (BCS) 6-7) or obese (BCS 8-9) by their veterinary healthcare professional. That equals an estimated 50.2 million dogs and 56.5 million cats are too heavy, based on 2017 pet population projections provided by the American Pet Products Association (APPA).

The laziest dog breeds that are least likely to be highly motivated are:

• English Bulldog. Source: sarinsrock.
• Shih Tzu. Source: Victor Camilo.
• Chow Chow. Source: izzy_the_chow.
• Cavalier King Charles Spaniel. Source: David B. ...
• Basset Hound. Source: sandytheprettyprincess.
• Pug. Source: anotherpug.
• Miniature Pinscher. Source: tolsbam.
• Boston Terrier.

For this reason, pet owners with these dog breeds need to get dogs out of the house and into a fitness routine. For dog owners that don't have time to take their dogs to dog parks, fence-in the backyard; and play games. Work on strength training exercises such as jumping, squatting, and running up-and-down hill. 

Dogs need at least 30 minutes of daily activity to stay healthy; and with a combination of healthy dog foods and exercise, dogs will live long, happy lives.