

Poor physical health can be a precursor to mental problems like depression, which leaves a pup unmotivated, unhappy, and sometimes unwilling to exercise. If your German shepherd hasn’t been himself, he may need more exercise.

Remember, “healthy” looks a bit different on every dog! 4. It’s not always the most noticeable, though, if your pup gains pounds slowly, so this is just one more reason to keep up with your routine vet visits. Bone and joint issues, including arthritis.These are just a few of the health problems that can come hand in hand with weight gain: As cute as a chubby pup might be, carrying extra weight definitely is not healthy for them. One visible sign of a dog’s lack of exercise is their weight. It could simply be one way of expressing hyperactivity - in the same ways restless people tap their foot or pace - or it could be your furry friend trying to initiate play. They may do this when bored, restless, or trying to communicate. In fact, a bored shepherd may even try to herd you!ĭogs also bark when looking for a reaction out of someone in their environment. Since vocalization is a normal part of many working dogs’ tasks, whether it be herding or hunting, so it’s not unheard of for these behaviors to make their way into a dog’s everyday life. Excessive barkingīarking is another way dogs release energy, whether they’re acting out of vigilance or just asking for attention. He’s simply trying to relieve his boredom with whatever he has - which unfortunately happens to be your possessions. If chaotic behaviors seem to increase, especially suddenly, your pup might be redirecting the excess energy that would otherwise be released through exercise, work, or play.Īs unhelpful as this behavior may be, understand that your pet isn’t trying to upset you.

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Destructive behaviorĬoming home to a room full of torn-up papers and other destruction is understandably frustrating, but it might also be a cause for concern. These are some of the most common symptoms of a sedentary lifestyle: 1. That’s why it’s up to you to watch for any signs that your dog might need to get out more. Without the ability to use words, your German shepherd can’t exactly tell you when he needs more activity in his life. 4 warning signs your German shepherd isn’t getting enough exercise The idea is to give him a task that helps him feel satisfied and accomplished when he finally achieves it–even just a good run together can do the trick. Puzzle toys can be a helpful tool, though more energetic pups may prefer something like agility challenges. The American Kennel Club lists problem-solving, decision-making, and focused attention as great ways to keep your dog’s mind active. They’ll need a task to do for at least part of the day to satisfy their driven minds. Their breed history makes them perfect for herding or working on the farm - hence the name “shepherd” - but not so perfect for lounging around. Keep in mind that your German shepherd needs both physical and mental stimulation to stay happy and healthy. Generally speaking, your dog will want to play and run off energy multiple times a day, so you can’t count on one long walk being enough. How much exercise does the average German shepherd need every day?Īlthough exercise needs vary from dog to dog, German shepherds are an athletic, high-energy breed that needs several hours of activity per day. What kind of exercise is best for a German shepherd, and how much exercise does a German Shepherd need? These are the kinds of questions we’ll answer, so keep reading to find out exactly what you need to know to keep your buddy happy and healthy.

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