If you have a dog, you probably already know that taking them for a walk is as good for them as it is for you. Over half of the dog population in the United States is overweight, and being overweight exposes your dog to the same dangers as being overweight in humans. This guide will teach you the things you need to know and consider before taking your dog for exercise.
Consult your doctor
You should consult a doctor before starting any fitness plan with your pet. A biochemical test on your dog should be performed by a veterinarian who specializes in rehabilitation medicine. Your veterinarian should be able to tell you whether your dog’s ability to cover great distances is being harmed.
How old is the dog?
You should wait until your dog is at least a year old or until their growth plates are closed before you start running with them. With running, older dogs may need to slow down. Remember that dogs do not follow the human calendar; a two-year-old dog may be equivalent to a twenty-year-old human. Observing your dog’s ability to get up and complete daily tasks is one way to tell if he or she is getting old.
What is the breed?
The breed of the dog will determine the type of exercise it engages in. Some breeds love to sprint, while others prefer to take it slow. For instance, flat-faced dogs such as bulldogs and pugs usually have breathing issues, so they aren’t well suited for endurance exercises. On the other hand, boxers are excellent runners, especially in favorable weather conditions.
Preparing your dog
Before hitting the road with your dog, you need to prepare for the demands of exercise. Dogs will be less likely to suffer injuries if you take a few minutes to prepare them for the main exercise. Ideally, you can take the dog on a ten-minute brisk walk to stretch the joints and muscles.
Take a break
No matter how close you are with your dog, they just can’t tell you when they are tired or in pain. One unique thing about dogs is that they can go to extreme lengths to please us, even if it means going beyond limits. While exercising, you should pay close attention to when your dog begins to lag. When your dog begins to lag, you may need to take a breather for you and your dog to rest.
One way to keep your dog inspired is by giving it incentives like dog biscuits.
Final thoughts
Keeping your dog fit is one investment you surely won’t regret. Healthy dogs cost less to maintain and are usually more fun and lively. Considering the things mentioned above will surely make the whole exercise with your dog worthwhile.