Is your dog a furry, four-legged bundle of zoom? Or do you have an adorable couch potato on your hands? Dogs are quite playful and active when they’re young, but they slow down as they age. No matter how old your pooch is, however, he’ll need proper activity to stay healthy. Read on as a local Norwalk, CA vet offers some helpful tips on keeping your canine pal in shape.

Doggy workout regimens are not one size fits all. Your furry friend’s age, breed, weight, and health will all play roles in determining the type and amount of exercise he needs. Some dogs—like brachycephalic breeds—should not be encouraged to run or swim, while others need at least an hour of activity each day. That said, most pups need at least a daily walk. Ask your vet for specific advice.

Good nutrition will play a huge role in your dog’s weight and health. Offer your canine friend a high-quality food, one that is suitable for his breed and age. Portion size is important, so keep a close eye on how much you are giving Fido. Even offering your cute pet a few calories extra each day can cause him to gain a pound a year! Of course, we can’t really talk about doggy diets without mentioning treats. Treats are a great way to brighten your pup’s day and/or reward him for being good, but don’t go overboard. Fido has a way of convincing us that he’s really hungry and really needs that doggy treat or piece of bacon. Don’t let your fuzzy friend manipulate you!

Walks are great, but they aren’t the only way to keep your furry buddy fit. Take time to play with Fido every day. Toss a ball or Frisbee for him, or just indulge him in a fun game like Tag . This will help keep him fit physically, and will also help prevent doggy boredom. If your pooch has more energy than you do, see if he’s interested in chasing after that little red dot from a laser pointer. That way, your canine friend will do all the running around, while you stay fairly still. You can also get your pooch an automated ball launcher.

Please reach out to us, your local Norwalk, CA vet clinic, anytime. We are always happy to help!