Having or owning a pet has numerous perks, but having a small one has its own advantages. It gets very easy to find the apartment that allows small dogs. On the top of that, there easy less food compared to their larger counterparts.
The health part has stated in different studies that working out with the dog ensures better health of your dog. If you are looking for a running buddy, then there are a lot of things that you need to keep in mind.
Continue reading this post to know how you can make the most of the running sessions with small dogs.
Always Start Short and Slow
This is very important if your dog is just starting off to run. You can run for 4-5 minutes or even shorter than that and then take a walk for a couple of minutes. Until and unless you have got a well-conditioned athlete, having frequent breaks is always a good idea.
Must Consult With Your Vet
It is important not to start running or any exercise program without consulting your physician. This is indeed a great piece of advice, not just for you but also for your dog. It is because, unlike us humans, dogs never complain, and there may be some nagging health issues that you are unaware of.
Make sure to inform the veterinarian that you are planning for exercise sessions with your close. This will insist the experts pay more attention to the dog regarding lungs health and, of course, joint health.
Remain Hydrated
Hydration is the key to remain active during and after extensive workout sessions. This applies to you as well as your dog. Whether you are planning for long or shorter sessions, it is always a smart move to carry water along with you. Running will make your dog feel tired, and this will force him/her to drink water from the puddles. It is crucial not to allow this as these water sources contain extremely toxic contaminants. And taking these will make your dog get extremely sick.
Being Mindful is Also Crucial
When you are running with a dog, it needs a lot of dedication, and it is equal from both the end, i.e., the dog and the owner. There are several distractions that might create a problem for you, like other animals, kids, people around, and even other dogs, bikes, cars.
Thus, it is crucial to keep your focus on the dog and create the right rhythm or distance goals aside. This is much needed during the initial sessions of the workout time as your four-legged friend needs all the attention. You need to check if your dog lags behind or follows you.
Experts have stated that it is imperative to observe the dog and ensure that the owner does not put the runner’s enthusiasm or the dog’s requirements. Apart from running or workout sessions where you (the owner) will accompany the dog, it is best suggested to install an underground dog fence to limit the dog’s movement beyond the said boundary. This will protect them from strangers or any unwanted perils.
Know the Breed of Your Dog
Out of innumerable dog breeds available, only certain breeds are best for distance running. Some of them are retrievers, terriers, shepherds, etc., who have the core strength to take on long-running distances.
For small dogs, the Taco Bell commercial is a start in this category, but experts still recommend that you should start while sticking to walking. Visit online platforms to check out the breeds that can turn out to be your good running partners.
No matter whichever breed you choose, it is imperative to start slow and understand the physical build-up of your dog to get it better.
Watch for the Paws
It is crucial to be aware of the type of surface you are running on. Undoubtedly, running on the jagged ice, hot blacktop, glass, or other roadside debris can cause serious injuries. In case you find that you start limping or lick the pads, make sure to stop the workout session right there.
Until you come up with the best running sneakers for your dogs, make sure to inspect the dog’s pads for cuts before going for workout sessions both indoor and outdoor. Experts suggest that meadows, forest soil, or sand are the ideal training ground for humans and dogs. Dog paws are extremely sensitive, and one can get sore on running on the hot asphalt during summer. You must also be considerate about the winter weather conditions.
Now that you are aware of the tips that you should follow with your small dogs, make sure to follow them in order to get the best results and to make the most of the opportunity. Please feel free to share your insights with us below in the comment section.