That's a good question: run or walk with your furry friend? Your dog can be the ultimate exercise partner. Think about it: dogs are always eager to spend more time with you; they have plenty of energy to burn . Plus, they're always the first to come running when you touch your shoes or the leash for a walk! Exercising with your dog is the best idea for both of you!
Why exercise?
Like humans, dogs need daily exercise for their health and happiness. Regular activity helps maintain their mental and physical well-being . It also prevents the development of bad behaviors such as:
- excessive barking
- aggression towards dogs
- aggression towards humans
- the rise in frustration
- destruction
- the stains
- depression
Dogs love to walk and run. It's part of their natural activities. It would be a shame to deprive them of it. But before starting any activity, you must ensure your dog is in good health.
Veterinary Inspection
Before hitting the road, consider your dog's health, physical condition, and age. A puppy shouldn't participate in sports before it has finished growing. That is, not before 18 months of age, regardless of breed. Unfortunately, this is something that is rarely followed. Even puppies can experience joint problems related to their growth. Running on hard surfaces can damage the joints and bones of a puppy that are not yet fully formed. You really must wait until the young dog's growth plates have begun to close. If its growth isn't respected, the dog could have serious bone problems throughout its life.
Dogs with flat faces may not be able to keep up with the pace you want them to maintain, whether walking or running. They tend to have narrow nostrils and partially obstructed airways, making breathing difficult when they overexert themselves. Larger breeds are prone to hip dysplasia and arthritis.
Finally, if your dog is overweight, you'll need to resume activity very gradually to avoid exacerbating health problems. Once the veterinary check-up is complete, it's time to start your activities!
Walking with your dog
Walking your dog is essential. In fact, even if your dog has the option of having a garden, it is crucial that it be able to go outside for at least 30 minutes a day once it is an adult.
With cani-hiking , you can share exceptional moments with your dog. Experience it as an adventure. Discover new places and watch your dog thrive.
Walking your dog doesn't require much equipment. If you're going to leash your dog, opt for a pulling harness and a belt. This will keep you connected. If your dog is off-leash, remember to put a collar on them and include your phone number in case they get lost or have an accident.
Walking is a fairly easy activity accessible to everyone. It will simply not be as intensive depending on your dog's age and physical condition.
Running with your dog
Running with your dog will help you run further, giving you the motivation to keep going! Runners also find their runs more enjoyable with their dogs. Instead of focusing on running time or calories burned, they concentrate on the pleasure of running with their companion. But be careful not to push your dog too far or too fast. Gradually increase the mileage until you reach an optimal distance for your dog.
Running requires a certain amount of effort and preparation is necessary to avoid accidents. Furthermore, it's essential that a sporting dog has a good diet and proper physical conditioning. Easily digestible kibble, such as specially formulated dog food, is recommended. We advise starting with canine fitness and proprioception exercises. This will help your dog recover well after exercise.
For equipment, opt for a pulling harness and a leash to cushion the impact of the run. This leash connects the owner and their dog throughout the entire run. However, it is possible to run without leashing your dog. The experience will be just as surprising!
Start slowly but surely
A sedentary person can't jump off the couch one day and run 20 km the next. It's the same for your dog. Too much exercise too soon increases the risk of injury for your canine companion. Therefore, you need to create a program tailored to you both. This allows you to progress at a healthy and safe pace. Many of these programs combine walking and jogging intervals, giving you ample time for active recovery and to catch your breath.
Before starting your workout, make sure you and your dog take at least a few minutes for a leisurely walk. Give your furry friend a chance to sniff around and relieve themselves. This not only allows them to do their business but also reduces the need to stop during your workout.
Starting to run on dirt trails will be easier on your dog's joints and paws than on asphalt roads. Plus, your dog will enjoy the natural scenery, smells, and sounds, perhaps more than the sidewalk in your neighborhood.
So ? Walk or run with your dog?
Walking and running with your dog are equally enjoyable. Neither is more important than the other. However, walking is simpler and more accessible for both you and your dog. Whichever route you choose, it's essential to pay attention to your dog's health and start slowly, even if your dog doesn't seem tired.
