Saturday, September 1, 2007
Neet to Exercise? Get a Dog!
Do you have trouble putting on your running shoes and hitting the trail? Do your exercise partners keep flaking out on you? The right dog can solve your need for running companionship, and you will almost always find your dog to be ecstatic and ready to go. Dogs need exercise for the same reasons that humans do, so why not kill two birds with one stone. You will find that dogs can be great exercise partners, as long as you train them well and use a little safety common sense.
The most important rule for running with a dog is keeping it on a leash. Though many owners take pride in their pet's training, it is never a good idea to run with a dog off-leash in a public place. It is disrespectful of other people and dogs, and it is often a municipal law that is punishable by a fine of $500 or more. But even if it is not a law, you never know how other dogs will react to your dog or if other people are comfortable with your dog being off-leash. You might come across someone that has a chronic fear of dogs.
Once you are ready to begin training your new exercise buddy, start out by enjoying some long walks and getting your dog used to covering some distance. Some dogs have more sensitive paws and might need to build up resistance to pavement or rocks. Do not force your dog to get out and run 5 miles right off the bat. Take it slow and learn your dog's limitations. There is no shame in walking for a while until both you and your dog are in the shape to pick up the pace.
Make sure that your dog is completely hydrated. Try to make a stop along the way or at least bring them straight to water when you are finished. Once you have entered into a regular exercise routine, make sure your dog always has access to plenty of water at home. If it is especially warm, try to be sensitive to the fact that your dog is running in a layer of hair and is prone to overheating. It is very easy for dogs to overheat, but they usually show signs of fatigue before this point. Remember there is no need to push your dog to do more than they can. If they begin to limp, pant excessively, salivate more than usual, or simply try to slow down or sit, it is time to take a break and cool down. Find your pet some shade and cool water to drink. Overheating can cause vomiting, seizures, or even brain damage, so don't take a chance by pushing your pet too far.
By taking these few simple precautions to heart, you can have the best exercise partner ever. They don't really care what route you choose, or when you want to go. Dogs are ready run almost any time and any place, and they will always be excited about getting outside!
About the Author: Dean Burton is the owner of MyDreamPuppy.com, a leading provider of puppies for sale. You can find a variety of dogs for sale that would be great for families or personal companionship. For more information, please visit MyDreamPuppy.com.
The most important rule for running with a dog is keeping it on a leash. Though many owners take pride in their pet's training, it is never a good idea to run with a dog off-leash in a public place. It is disrespectful of other people and dogs, and it is often a municipal law that is punishable by a fine of $500 or more. But even if it is not a law, you never know how other dogs will react to your dog or if other people are comfortable with your dog being off-leash. You might come across someone that has a chronic fear of dogs.
Once you are ready to begin training your new exercise buddy, start out by enjoying some long walks and getting your dog used to covering some distance. Some dogs have more sensitive paws and might need to build up resistance to pavement or rocks. Do not force your dog to get out and run 5 miles right off the bat. Take it slow and learn your dog's limitations. There is no shame in walking for a while until both you and your dog are in the shape to pick up the pace.
Make sure that your dog is completely hydrated. Try to make a stop along the way or at least bring them straight to water when you are finished. Once you have entered into a regular exercise routine, make sure your dog always has access to plenty of water at home. If it is especially warm, try to be sensitive to the fact that your dog is running in a layer of hair and is prone to overheating. It is very easy for dogs to overheat, but they usually show signs of fatigue before this point. Remember there is no need to push your dog to do more than they can. If they begin to limp, pant excessively, salivate more than usual, or simply try to slow down or sit, it is time to take a break and cool down. Find your pet some shade and cool water to drink. Overheating can cause vomiting, seizures, or even brain damage, so don't take a chance by pushing your pet too far.
By taking these few simple precautions to heart, you can have the best exercise partner ever. They don't really care what route you choose, or when you want to go. Dogs are ready run almost any time and any place, and they will always be excited about getting outside!
About the Author: Dean Burton is the owner of MyDreamPuppy.com, a leading provider of puppies for sale. You can find a variety of dogs for sale that would be great for families or personal companionship. For more information, please visit MyDreamPuppy.com.
Labels: puppies for sale
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