Reduce Your Lap Dog's Footprint

Contrary to their name, lap dogs don't solely belong on your lap. Even though they're small... and cute... they need exercise just like all other animals. Far too often, I notice overweight 'lap' dogs in public. These dogs seem to be the most likely to be spoiled and well acquainted with the lifestyle of lounging on the couch all day long. They're treated more like human beings than any other animal. From eating an excess of meat to being toted around However, if you care about your dog, you won't let this become its life.

Unlike other dogs, lap dogs can get a great deal of exercise within the house. They do need to be motivated to exercise, though. Whether you're throwing a ball around or chasing your dog in the house, indoor exercise can be just as beneficial as outdoor for these dogs.

However, the summer months are upon us, so why not take advantage of the weather? Since these dogs are the smallest kind, they're easy to take along on long walks, hikes, or even jogs.

Don't feed your dog more meat than need be. Meat requires an incredible amount of energy to produce and it's not healthy for a dog so small to consume so much meat.

Having a healthy dog reduces obesity and disease, which in turn reduces the energy put into surgeries and routines by vets. Being healthy, in almost every case that I find, is also more green in the end.

For more great tips on keeping green pets check out Planet Green's guide to How to Go Green: Pets.

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