Remember, just letting your dog out in the backyard is not enough and does not give your dog the exercise the dog really needs. A brief daily walk is often not enough either. So, how do you actually decide on exactly how much exercise your dog really needs?

The types of exercises that you choose for your dog should depend on many things such as the age, weight, health and breed of your dog. Is your dog a sporting breed, used to hunting or a retriever breed who likes to run or is it a toy dog breed who is happy to sit on the couch?

These are just a few of the questions you need to ask before you provide your dog a proper daily workout. Dogs need exercise but if your dog is old, you will have to encourage your dog to exercise. Walking is a great form of exercise for senior dogs. If your dog is pregnant a little exercise can be fine but you should never over exercise her.

Daily exercise is always recommended unless there is a medical problem. You should always consult your veterinarian before you decide on a fitness program for your pet. Healthy dogs crave interaction with both other dogs and people as well. Dog parks are great for this and some of them even allow the dogs to play and walk unleashed. You should always check the rules of the parks around your area before you go however.

Many dogs enjoy playing with Frisbeeson land or in water. Chasing a tennis ball or a stick can be fun too when dogs need exercise. Other games you can do: you can get a rope and let your dog take one end and you the other, then you both pull away. Swimming can be an enjoyable activity for your dog too and is a fantastic form of exercise for dogs that can swim and love the water.

- Avoid extensive exercise methods with your dog if it has any pre-existing health problems.

- Watch your dog for signs that it is tired.

- Always take water along for you and your dog while out exercising.

- Go out early in the morning or late in the evening during hot summer months.