Previously, we have written about the benefits of strength and cardio training for your dog. Today we will examine the benefits of core exercises for your dog. As always, please check with your vet before markedly changing your dog’s exercise regimen.

Core work, although fairly well integrated into the human fitness industry’s vernacular, is somewhat new to the canine fitness world. Many people still think of their dog’s exercise solely in terms of how long their walk was. The fact is, your dog can greatly benefit from having a strong core. These benefits include:

Improved strength and athletic performance

Improved balance

Reduced injury risk

Improved muscle tone

Improved support of vital organs

Canine Core Exercise Basics

Unlike people, dog’s really can’t do situps or crunches. Actually, people shouldn’t much bother with these types of core exercises either for that matter. Instead, your dog’s core workout is all about engaging their core for stability purposes, which, when held under tension for time or when held under physical duress (like when moving above or through obstacles) will build a functional strength that will markedly improve your dog’s physical abilities. Think of your dog’s core like a pilates student thinks of their core: a set of inter related muscles that work together, like a corset, to provide stability, strength, and protection of the spine and internal organs.

When designing a core exercise program for your dog, focus on plank like moves that force core contraction with proper alignment throughout. There are many different ways to achieve this starting with simple nose target stretches (described below) for reps and time and progressing to the use of balance cushions and peanut and stability balls. We use balance cushions, mixing front and back leg focus and can really see our dogs engage their core to keep upright. It is very important that you watch your dog’s alignment throughout the exercise movements. In most cases, this means that their weight is equally balanced right and left, their back is straight, and their eyes are looking forward (to ensure proper cervical alignment).

Nose Stretch Description and Progressions

The nose stretch core exercise is a simple to perform, yet challenging exercise for your dog. You can make it more challenging by adding instability (which will require the use of a balance cushion or peanut). We recommend starting with the beginner version until your dog can consistently hold the proper position for 10-15 seconds and for 4-5 sets. Once this is accomplished, you can move on to the next progression.

Beginner: start out by having your dog stand with their back feet behind a solid object (like a 2 x 4 piece of wood). Use a treat to have them stretch forward as far as possible without moving their back feet in front of the object. Hold this position for 10-15 seconds and release. Perform 4-5 more times.

Intermediate: start out with your dog’s back feet on a balance cushion (which is low to the ground) and perform as above. Make sure that your dog’s feet remain on the cushion. You want them to stretch for the treat, but don’t move so far away that they are forced to step off the cushion.

Advanced: perform this like the balance cushion version except have your dog step their back feet onto a stability peanut abutted against a wall or other stable surface. Use the treat to have them stretch forward while keeping their feet on the peanut. The peanut makes this a more dynamic exercise and your dog will be forced to adjust their body position to stay under control. Again, watch for proper alignment and eye position.

SlimDoggy Jack and Steve are going to continue to test new moves and see who can develop a better 6-pack. Stay tuned for more great core exercise suggestions for your dog.



Special Prize Giveaway by Cloud Star

For this week and next, we will be randomly selecting one of the commenters from the FitDog Friday blog hosts: SlimDoggy, Peggy’s Pet Place and To Dog With Love. The selected commenter will receive a sample pack of dog treats courtesy of Cloud Star, makers of Dynamo Dog Functional Treats. Make sure to share your FitDog Friday thoughts and you may win a great prize for your fit dog!



Please enjoy our FitDog Friday Blog Hop brought to you by SlimDoggy and our co-hosts Peggy’s Pet Place and To Dog With Love. Join the Hop or just enjoy the links below – lots of fun fitness tips and advice!