Exercise vs. Training: Why Your Working Dog Breed Needs More Than Just a Run
- shimmydowns
- Sep 22
- 2 min read
We all know working breeds have energy to burn. A walk, a run alongside the bike, or a good game of fetch are fantastic ways to give your dog physical exercise. But here’s the truth: often exercise alone isn’t enough for a working dog breed to truly thrive.
That’s where Shimmy Downs Kelpies comes in.
Exercise at Home
Exercise is about movement. It’s essential for keeping your dog’s body healthy and for burning off some excess energy.
Most owners can manage this part of their dog’s routine:
Walks around the block
A run on the farm or beach
Fetch, tug, or play with the kids
Chasing a ball or frisbee
All of this is fantastic — and necessary. But it only scratches the surface of what a working dog really needs.
Why Physical Exercise May Not Be Enough
Kelpies and other working breeds are bred for intelligence, problem-solving and focus. After exercise, many dogs still pace, dig holes, or chew because their mind hasn’t been worked.
Mental stimulation is what leaves your dog not just tired, but content. That’s why so many owners come to us saying:
“I walk him every day, but he still has energy to burn!”
The missing piece isn’t necessarily more kilometres — it’s training.
Training at Shimmy Downs = Exercise + Mental Work
When you bring your dog out for a session with us, they get the full package:
Physical outlet: moving through drills, recalls, stock exposure and structured activity that works their body.
Mental stimulation: learning to focus, problem-solve, and manage themselves around other dogs, distractions and new environments.
Teamwork: building a stronger bond with you through guided practice and clear communication.
Our sessions are designed so your dog leaves both happily tired and mentally settled. Owners often notice their dogs come home calmer, easier to manage, and more relaxed — because we’ve met both sides of their needs.
How You Can Help Your Dog Thrive
Keep up the daily exercise: walks, runs, play.
Book regular sessions with Shimmy Downs Kelpies to give them the missing mental challenge.
Think of it as a complete workout: you provide the daily movement, we provide the mindwork.
Final Thoughts
Working breeds don’t just need to move — they need to think. That’s why combining your daily exercise with regular training sessions at Shimmy Downs Kelpies creates the perfect balance.
Here, your dog gets what they crave most: a chance to run, learn, focus and grow. The result? A dog who’s not only fit, but truly fulfilled.
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