Picture taken from www.animalszooguru.blogspot.com
From the desk of Sharda Baker.
8/12/2014
Hi and welcome everyone!
This is Sharda with another Bichon Frise newsletter!
Aside from providing your Bichon Frise with quality dog food or healthy homemade meals another thing that you may want to pay attention to is exercise.
Although Bichon Frises are quite healthy and will not need too much exercise it’s better to give your Bichon Frise an exercise routine.
Remember that even dogs can become obese and obesity with such a small dog can be dangerous.
So, today let’s talk about stretching those bones and exercising with our Bichon Frise!
EXERCISING YOUR BICHON FRISE
Just like people, exercise and diet are an important part of your Bichon Frise dog’s life and daily routine.
Without enough exercise, adult or senior Bichon Frise will become overweight which often leads to many other health problems.
Exercise is important for Bichon Frise because it helps strengthen your pet’s circulatory and respiratory system, keeps their joints flexible and muscles toned, and helps improve their sleep and digestion.
Along with relieving boredom, when your Bichon Frise gets it proper amount of exercise, it releases energy so the dog is less likely to destroy things such as shoes and furniture.
Small breeds of dog such as the Bichon Frise do not require the long walks or high-energy exercises that larger breeds need. In addition, the amount of exercise a Bichon Frise requires will vary due to the age of the dog.
AGE
The age of your Bichon Frise will make a difference in the most appropriate amount and type of energy.
The Bichon Frise is a typically moderately energetic dog all through his or her life that can adapt and adjust to either indoor or outdoor exercise activities.
Working within your schedule and prioritizing exercise time is an important part of caring for the Bichon Frise.
PUPPIES
Bichon Frise puppies require controlled exercise because their bones and joints are still developing.
Very short walks and play periods is sufficient for most puppies but remember that they tire quickly and require a lot of rest and sleep. Just like other dogs, Bichon Frise puppies like routine, so once you establish one, try to follow it.
Taking your puppy outside for playtime or a walk is good for their mental as well as physical health.
A change in the surroundings stimulates your puppy’s senses and should always be a fun, healthy experience.
On short walks, puppies get a chance to meet other people, dogs and explore new things, which helps them develop into well-socialized, confident, happy adults.
ADULTS
As your Bichon Frise reaches adulthood, you may want to increase the length of their walk but it varies from dog to dog.
A twice daily walk not only gives your dog needed exercise but help socialize them as there are new sights and sounds to explore. They meet other dogs, people, and experience and explore new things that help your Bichon Frise to develop into a well-adjusted, contented dog.
Bichon Frise have minimal exercise needs, so some dogs prefer very short walks.
Playing tag or fetch with them is a wonderful way to make sure they get enough exercise while it helps to strengthen the dog/owner bond.
Play periods in your own fenced backyard provides a safe place for your Bichon Frise to chase his toys, play fetch and run. Fenced-in dog parks allow dogs to play off-leash together supervised by their owners, is great exercise, and helps with their socialization skills.
SENIOR DOGS
Just like Bichon Frise puppies and adult dogs, most senior dogs still require some modified exercise.
When buying new toys, make sure the toys are pliable, soft, and easy on your dog’s gums and teeth.
When playing with or walking your senior Bichon Frise, always watch for any signs of pain or fatigue. Older dogs often have less energy and slow down a little.
Unable to manage as much exercise as when they were younger, for some Bichon Frise seniors, a short walk and a little fresh air is sufficient. If your pet has specific health problems, always talk to your veterinarian about your Bichon Frise exercise needs.
Remember, exercising with your dog can also be a great work out for you as well.
It’s actually like hitting two birds with one stone right? : )
I hope you enjoy exercising with your pet and continue to strengthen your bond.
All the best and take care
Warmly,
Sharda Baker