Author: Taylor Ritz
What is dog exercise equipment? What is it for? How do I know if my dog needs it? We all want what’s best for our dogs, but with all of the marketing ploys out there, it can be difficult to ascertain what our dogs actually need to live their happiest and healthiest lives. We will discuss several types of dog exercise equipment, including what dogs benefit from them and in what conditions and situations they are best used.
Why do dogs need exercise equipment?
Exercise equipment can be useful in certain conditions. No matter what time of year it is, your dog needs regular exercise to stay healthy. If you live in a climate with harsh winters and have a dog that does not thrive in cold weather, you may need to exercise them indoors. Exercise equipment made specifically for dogs can help you maintain your dog’s health even in the dead of winter, all from the comfort of your home.
Related Blog: How Much Exercise Does a Dog Need Every Day?
Types of Dog Exercise Equipment
Here are just a few of the myriad types of exercise equipment for dogs.
Indoor Ball Launcher
Multiple companies make ball launchers made for indoor use. Many have customizable settings regarding angle and distance so you can make sure the ball launcher doesn’t destroy your home. Once your dog gets the hang of bringing the ball back to the launcher, they will be able to keep themselves entertained while also getting a good workout. Indoor ball launchers are most effectively used for smaller breeds that can run through the house without destroying it.
Balance Disks
Also called wobble disks, balance disks are used to train core strength in both humans and dogs. They come in a variety of shapes and sizes but they all have one thing in common: they wobble! Balance disks teach body awareness, especially foot placement, and are great winter alternatives to (and training for) activities that require balance, such as hiking. Balance disks can be great workout equipment for almost any breed or type of dog.
Treadmill
While dogs can be taught to use a regular human treadmill, there are also dog-specific treadmills out there. These are often built with sidewalls that are better suited to keeping your dog safe while using the machine. Treadmills are not only beneficial for high-energy dogs that need vast amounts of exercise, but also for dogs who require some sort of physical rehabilitation or physical therapy.
Indoor Obstacle Course
Great for beginner and experienced agility dogs alike, indoor obstacle courses can facilitate agility training, even in the middle of winter. Most affordable beginners’ kits come with a minimum of a jump, a tunnel, and weave poles. Even if your dog is an experienced agility competitor, the indoor obstacle course can be a great way to keep up their training when the weather prevents them from accessing the larger outdoor courses.
