October 17, 2010

Biking and running with your dog


You know that your dog needs daily exercise to stay healthy, just like you do. Daily walking is great for smaller dogs as your stride makes the little dog almost run to keep up, but what about the mid-size to larger dog? It is sad to say that most larger dogs do not get enough exercise, just like their owners. Breeds like the German Shepard need to be trotted for at least 40-80 minutes a day to stay in shape and not have any heart and lung problems. That being said, how can you help your dog get that much needed daily exercise?

Daily jogging is the quickest way to get your dog on the right track to getting and keeping them in shape but often us humans cannot keep up the pace that is needed for the dog to get the best benefits of the workout. Biking is the best choice for those who have to keep their dogs on a leash while out in public. I do not recommend that you hold the dogs leash but use a leash holder like in the photo above and work with your dog to get them use to it. Both biking and jogging with your dog are the best fat burners for both you and your dog, but what if you are unable to do either?

If you are not physically able to jog or bike but can walk, here is my suggestion. Walk to your nearest open area, dog park or place where your dog can be off leash and not be breaking the law. Play long distance fetch, allow the dog to go swimming in a near by pond or lake or otherwise engage the dog in long distance fast running while remaining under you voice command. Daily swimming is actually recommended for retrieving dog breeds so if you have a swimming pool don't close it for the winter but use it as a place for your dog to get daily swimming exercise.

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