Pet Behaviour Mythbuster #2 - More exercise is not always the answer - Pet Behaviour Vet
Home › Behaviour › Pet Behaviour Mythbuster #2 – More exercise is not always the answer
Posted on June 13, 2018 by Dr Joanna	— 2 Comments ↓	
A common piece of advice we hear from dog enthusiasts is that dogs showing behavioural problems (like barking, destruction, aggression and escaping) must be suffering from a lack of exercise. Therefore they must be regularly exercised to the point of exhaustion in order to curb these signs.
What worries us is that this advice is often given out (by well-meaning people) without taking into account what the actual CAUSE of the behaviour problem is.
Whilst increasing exercise would certainly be helpful if the animal is in fact suffering from a lack of physical exercise, it would not be helpful in cases where the behaviour is driven by a training problem, physical problem or mental health disorder.
It’s a bit like recommending insulin for a dog who is urinating too much, without first diagnosing the cause of the frequent urination (which could be caused by anything ranging from a completely normal behaviour, to a UTI, to diabetes).
Excessive exercise and exhaustion can also cause irritability and an increase in anxiety and aggression. Think about how grumpy you sometimes feel after a long day on your feet!
In summary: please try to determine the cause of the problem before you recommend a ‘treatment’!
- Dr Jo
Dr Joanna McLachlan is an accredited Behaviour Veterinarian. She is the owner of Pet Behaviour Vet, a mobile behaviour only veterinary practice in Sydney, Australia. If you would like to enquire about having a consultation with Dr Joanna, please contact us. Don't forget to Like us on Facebook and subscribe to our blog.
Posted in Behaviour, Behaviour Problems, Medical Problems, Normal Behaviour, Pet Behaviour Mythbusters, Training Problems	
Tagged with anxiety, behaviour myths, dog training, emotions, exercise, mental illness, obedience training	
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Pet Behaviour Mythbuster #3 My Pet will be a Zombie! →
2 comments on “Pet Behaviour Mythbuster #2 – More exercise is not always the answer”	
Denny Groth says:	
Hi, I can’t find your fee structure. I might be missing something. Could you please let me know how much you charge? Thanks, Denny
Dr Joanna says:	
The best way for us to give you an accurate quote would be to first have a discussion with you over the phone so we have a clear idea about what your needs are, as there are many factors that influence what kind of service we would need to provide you. Only then will we be able to know which options to recommend (otherwise we would be guessing!).
Feel free to give us a call on 8599 0859 during business hours to discuss.