The Best Exercise Equipment and Tools for a Well-Rounded Dog Workout

Dog exercise equipment helps dogs burn energy and build muscle. It also lets owners meet their pups’ fitness needs no matter the weather.

For example, a treadmill allows dogs to keep up with their workout routine even when the weather is bad. Other tools are useful for training specific skills or providing physical therapy for injured dogs.

Treadmills

Dog treadmills can be a great exercise for dogs when it is too cold or hot to walk your dog outdoors. They also can be useful for older dogs or those recovering from injuries who need low-impact exercise.

Treadmills offer a moderately cushioned flat surface for walking and running, allowing you to control the speed and incline. Treadmill speeds range from two to four mph for slow walks and light jogs to five or more mph for endurance-building runs. The incline feature raises or lowers the treadmill deck to simulate hills and vary the workout.

Some treadmills come with an onboard computer to create pre-set exercises for you and your dog. Other models are foldable, which allows them to be easily stowed away when not in use. Consider adding a non-slip covering to your treadmill, such as Gator Grip Traction Tape. This is a very easy-to-apply, high-quality option that offers excellent traction. You can also use this on your snuff mats and peanut holders to help them stay in place.

Snuff Mats

A snuffle mat is an awesome way to help dogs forage and work their noses. In the wild, they would have spent much time sniffing and digging for food, so this mental stimulation benefits them. Snuffling for their food also helps them feel more satisfied and calm after eating, rather than just gulping down a pile out of a bowl!

Look for a snuffle mat with pockets and crevices where you can bury treats or meals to challenge your pet. Some have added features like faux grass and other fun textures to encourage foraging. It’s also important to pick out a snuffle mat that is easy to clean. Your pup will be licking it, so you want something that can be easily wiped down and is machine washable.

Balance Discs

Dogs must be strong and healthy to live long, happy lives. Exercise helps dogs stay trim, builds bones and joints, and improves heart and lung function. It can also help prevent boredom, often leading to destructive behaviors like chewing on furniture.

A balance disc is a great tool to help train dogs for surface discrimination, core strength, paw activation, neuromuscular facilitation, and sensory and perceptual stimulation. This exercise equipment is available in various sizes – 14 inches for smaller breeds and 22 inches for medium to large breeds. By adjusting the amount of air inside the disc, you can change the balance challenge and engage different muscles.

Another great addition to any workout kit is a treat-dispensing chew ball. This fun toy will keep dogs busy for hours and provides a low-effort, high-reward workout. Just be sure to supervise play to avoid any chomping accidents. This toy can be used indoors or outdoors and comes in several colors to appeal to dogs’ visual cues. It can also be filled with kibble, ice cubes, or treats to enhance the challenge.

Agility Hurdles

Whether you’re training a team or a solo athlete, speed hurdles (also known as acceleration ladders) are an important tool to incorporate into your workouts. They improve footwork and rhythm for increased speed and help reduce contact time with the ground. They also strengthen the leg muscles and improve lateral movement.

These lightweight, durable hurdles are ideal for all sports, including volleyball, football, basketball, tennis, and soccer. They can be used indoors or outdoors and are safe for dogs of all sizes. Most brands offer various height options, and many have adjustable hurdles so you can increase or decrease the distance between them to customize your drills.

Another way to get your dog’s mind working while you exercise is with a treat-dispensing chew ball. The constant motion of the ball can strengthen your dog’s jaw and core and dissipate their energy. These toys are great for low-impact exercises and can be used independently or with other exercise equipment like snuff mats. They can also help exercise dogs who are older or recover from injury.

Chew Balls

A dog ball is a great way to keep dogs mentally engaged in an activity, which helps prevent destructive behavior and regulates natural hunting instincts. It can also be used as a reward tool during play to motivate dogs, and some are even designed with features like a light, squeaker, or noisemaker to make them more entertaining.

If your dog is a chewer, a rubber ball with a tough surface that can withstand intense chewing is the best option. These balls are typically made from non-toxic and no-smell rubber, and they’re also a good choice for older dogs with sensitive teeth.

If you have a small dog breed, like a Chihuahua or Yorkie, their mouths may not fit around a classic ball toy, so a special treat-dispensing toy is the perfect solution.