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The
loneliness of a long distance runner is a reality for many runners and
walkers who are balancing family, a full-time job and a workout routine. Day
after day you hit the road—pushing yourself to get through the workout. If
you just had a training partner to help get you through some of those long
days, your life certainly would be much easier.
Having
a training partner can be the difference between choosing to workout each
day or deciding instead to vegetate in front of the television set. Instead
of searching the city for the perfect workout buddy, look no further than
your backyard. Your family dog can make the ideal training mate.
Your
dog won’t complain about the route that you run, the weather, or the way
that you smell when you’re finished with your workout. However, working out
with your canine does take some planning and careful consideration before
you head out the door. The following tips will make your workout more
enjoyable for you and your pooch.
Can My Dog Work Out with Me?
Most
dogs will be able to tag along with you on your next walk or run, but some
are better suited than others for the longer distances that runners and
walkers tend to cover. If you don’t yet have a dog, and are seeking one that
will also make a good training partner, you have countless options.
Mixed
breeds are actually some of the best athletes because they aren’t as
susceptible to hereditary problems as pure breeds. Retrievers, labradors,
and many hunting dogs, as well as sighthounds, herding dogs and working dogs
are also excellent runners. Particularly large and small breeds, however,
like Great Danes and Chihuahuas, don’t handle distance running well, but can
walk with you without problem. Dogs with smaller snouts, like bulldogs,
pugs, and King Charles Cavaliers, should also be restricted from running
because of their inability to breathe efficiently. However walking will do
them no harm.
Visit the Vet
Before
you even think of putting the leash on your dog and cruising the local
streets, have your veterinarian give your dog a good once over. He will want
to check out your pet's cardiovascular system and joints, and may be able to
provide you with additional tips that will make the experience more
enjoyable for both you and your dog.
Check with the Weatherman
Dogs
cannot handle the weather as efficiently as you can. Before you head out the
door, make sure it is safe for your dog. Dogs cannot handle extreme heat.
Hot weather puts them at greater risk for heat stoke and dehydration. If you
workout early in the morning or when the sun goes down, you can avoid many
of these heat related problems.
Train Your Dog
If
your dog doesn’t obey you, running or walking will be a nightmare. It’s
important that your dog is obedient and can follow basic commands such as
"stop" and "sit," and can be summoned when you call his name. A leash will
also eliminate many problems. You’ll want to make sure you choose a leash
that is safe for your dog. You can even purchase leashes that are
specifically designed for working out.
Start
Easy
Don’t
take your dog out on your favorite ten miler on the first run or walk up the
side of a mountain. You’ll need to give your pet some time to adjust to
exercise. If you’re a runner, you’ll want to start by alternating running
and walking—mostly walking during the first few weeks. Your dog will get in
shape much more quickly than you do, so be patient for a few weeks, and
before you know it your dog will be pulling you through the run. Walkers can
work their dog in more quickly.
Monitor Your Dog
Just
as you monitor your own condition while you’re working out, you need to keep
an eye out for your pooch. Watch for limping, signs of discomfort, panting
or anything that might look unusual. This is usually a sign that your pet is
ready for a much-needed break. If you notice any of these signs, stop and
walk or give your dog a chance to catch its breath. If the behavior
continues, he may need to take a day or two off from workout out.
Keep the Fluids Handy
Because dogs sweat only through the pads of their feet and rely on panting
to cool themselves, they’re much more vulnerable to heat exhaustion than
their two-legged partners. A good rule of thumb is to give your dog access
to fluids for every 20 minutes of activity. You may want to schedule a stop
at home so your dog can gulp down some water before you continue on your
run. It is also important to hydrate once the workout is complete.
Dogs in the Running
Some
breeds are much better suited to distance running and intense walking
sessions than others. Want to see how your pooch measures up? Here are some
of the best running breeds—and keep in mind that a mixed breed often makes
the best running partner: Labrador
Retrievers, Golden Retrievers, Dalmations, Greyhounds, Afghan
Hounds, Weimaraners, Dobermans, Collies, Shetland Sheepdogs, Huskies, Akitas,
English Setters, Irish Setters, and German Shepherds.
Now
that you have found the perfect training partner, the only challenge left is
to try to keep up with your little workout buddy each day. The exercise that
you do together each day will not only make you a healthy and happier dog
owner, it will also bring you closer to the one training partner who will
love you unconditionally—your family dog!
Chris Saunders is a freelance writer living
in Illinois.
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