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Like all kids, growing puppies love playtime, but
did you know that they also need regular exercise? While play keeps your
puppy mentally alert, exercise helps keep your puppy in shape and helps
prevent obesity and some destructive behaviors.
Daily requirements
Your puppy needs a minimum of 20 minutes of daily playtime, plus an
additional 20-30 minutes of exercise each day. Playing with your puppy
strengthens the bond between you and helps him become more at ease with
people. Try playing catch, fetch, or throwing a ball. Experiment with
different puppy toys — you'll soon discover what your puppy likes to do.
For his 20-30 minutes of daily exercise, try a walk or a jog with your
puppy. He'll love going to new places — and can benefit from getting
used to new sights and sounds. All you'll need is a good collar and a
lightweight nylon or leather leash.
Chewing behavior
A combination of play and exercise can also help you control the chewing
and mouthing associated with teething puppies (3-6 months old). Give
your puppy a good choice of chew toys and praise him for chewing on
these objects. Play with him and his chew toys — rotating the toys every
week — so they keep him interested. And if you catch your pup chewing on
something that is not his, clap your hands to get his attention and in a
loud voice say "no." Immediately replace the wrong object with one of
his toys, and praise him after he begins chewing on it.
Play and exercise basics
20 minutes of daily playtime 20-30 minutes of daily exercise a variety
of chew toys puppy collar and nylon or leather leash
© 2010 Mars,
Incorporated and its Affiliates. All Rights Reserved.
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