To Run, Or Not To Run: That Is The Question
If you’ve ever thought of combining your love of dogs and running there’s a few things to keep in mind before hitting the road.
Getting Rover ready for a run is very important, otherwise you may be risking both dog and owner safety. A veterinarian, dog trainer, and owner gives us five tips before starting out.
1. Lapdog or lap-runner?
Before setting out, take an honest look at your dog. Is he a high-energy mutt who would love to run, or is he a breed more suited to snuggling at your feet?2. Heel!
After type of dog, obedience is key. After all, a run will be no fun if your dog stops to sniff every tree, or races in front of you and trips you up. Your dog should learn to heel, and a good obedience class can teach this skill.3. Dogs Unleashed
“Ideally, you should jog with your dog in off-leash areas so that he or she can got at his or her own pace and has the option to speed up or rest if needed,” she says. “You and your dog may not have the same ideal pace, and it may be difficult for your dog to match your stride comfortably or even safely.”4. Clean bill of health
Before embarking on a running program, Dr. Akins recommends getting the “all clear” from the dog’s vet.5. Keep cool
Even if your dog is “running fit,” it’s important to recognize that dogs don’t have as efficient cooling systems as humans do and are more susceptible to heat stroke. Especially in warmer weather, runners need to be alert to signs of exhaustion and overheating.
Remember, just like humans, not all dogs enjoy running. Run on over to read the full article to make sure you’re on the right track.
Over the years of having my Cocker Spaniel (Joey), I’ve seen many dog owners who take there mid-sized dogs out for run and these dogs don’t look like there enjoying themselves.
Joey enjoys short distance runs and in spurts, but he would rather walk or hike trails. As he’s gotten older we rarley run and consentrate on walking and having fun. Even the distance he can walked as dimished as he’s gotten a little older but he still enjoys getting out. Other then physical activity he loves to cuddle and always has.
He’s my best friend and I can’t understand why a person would want there best friend to endure an activity they arn’t built for or enjoy? That could be considered torture so there’s a lot take into consideration when a dog owner take his dog out for a run.