Nothing replaces an old-fashioned walk or jog with you, but learning your dog to run, walk or jog on a treadmill is a great way to exercise your dog Below are some very basic points to take into account when teaching your dog to exercise on a treadmill.
- If you are not confident in what you are doing, consult with an experienced trainer. Mistakes on our part can often make a simple task such as treadmill training to be a very stressful and overwhelming task for your dog.
- Consult your vet to ensure that treadmill training is suitable for your dog.
- The dog must first familiarize himself with the treadmill before running on it. This could involve keeping your dog for some time on and near the treadmill before turning it on and moving.
- Use solid obedience, your body and whatever else works for your dog to guide him on the treadmill and make him feel comfortable in its movements.
- Start in small steps, both in speed and time; ensure that your dog is ready for increased speed and distances.
- Never leave your dog without an intruder on a treadmill. Everything is about supervising our dogs – this is no exception.
If you are patient with your treadmill introduction you should have your dog up and running in no time!
