The Best Way to Make Sure Your Dog Gets Enough Exercise

Doctors today advise humans to spend around 30 minutes daily in some type of mild to moderate exercise, like walking or even running to assist in cardiac and joint health and vitality. It can be shown that people who do so stay healthy longer than those with a more sedentary (read that as couch potato) lifestyle. Trouble is - most of us humans prefer our comfort over activity we want to take the easy way out all of the time.

But unlike humans - dogs actually LOVE exercise! Just watch a dog run after a ball and notice that they do not hold back, they run at 100% pace to catch it!

And Dogs actually NEED exercise for their health and vitality. As a bonus ensuring that they get enough daily exercise will go a long way towards the prevention of many of the bad behaviors that people find most annoying about dog ownership, like constant barking, digging or escape or the destruction of your favorite items!

Just try spending about 20 - 30 minutes per day (great for you too) walking - or vigorously playing with a fetch toy with your dog or dogs you WILL notice a difference. If possible combine that with something that you do daily like a trip to the Post Office so that you establish a routine for yourself and the dog. Once established you will find that the dog begins to expect the trip and the walk and starts to ask you for it - a great motivator for the days when you may not quite feel like going.

On that subject though - remember that you are the boss and if not practical or you have other plans - don't make it that there's no flexibility for yourself; sometimes a simple game inside or else even a total day off will just have to do.

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Information About The English Cocker Spaniel

The majority of us know various facts about the cocker spaniel, but not all of us know the English cocker spaniel; in fact, many individuals are unaware that there are two types of cocker spaniels at all. This distinction between American and English cocker spaniels came about in the middle of the 20th century and was brought about by their great difference in appearance. This article will provide information on the English cocker spaniel discussing its appearance, health considerations, and overall personality.

The Appearance

English Cocker Spaniel

Since the mid 20th century, the English spaniel has diversified even further making an obvious distinction between the traditional and English breeds. Whereas the American spaniel has longer fur with a slight wave, the English canine has a very short coat. Another defining feature is that the English breed has a much deeper chest

American Cocker Spaniel

and stands closer to the ground having rather short legs; whereas, the American spaniel is taller with a wider chest.

The Health Factors

All purebred dogs are at risk of having genetic health problems and the English cocker spaniel can present with highly detrimental conditions. One common condition among this breed is progressive retinal atrophy which can leave the dog blind or with visual impairments. Juvenile-onset renal failure is another condition which can cause muscle weakness and failing kidneys. Finally, English cocker spaniels can suffer from progressive ear infections that could lead to hearing loss, particularly in multi-colored canines. To ensure that your pet is not at risk to any of these problems, it is essential that the breeder provide you with a health guarantee on the pups.

The Personality

While he may not have a similar appearance to other spaniels, the English cocker spaniel has the same pleasant disposition. This animal is highly affectionate, cheerful, and very devoted to his owners. This spaniel is an excellent option for a family pet as the breed is very calm and enjoys playing with children. This breed is also an excellent watchdog due to his alert nature and need to defend his family.

Final Words On The Matter

It has been noted that dog ownership can be very beneficial to all families; children can learn responsibility by caring for and exercising the animal and older individuals will find comfort in the animal's presence. Using the information above you can make an informed decision as to whether or not this breed is suited to your specific needs.

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