The post 7 Ways to Turn Walking the Dog Into a Workout by Melvin Peña appeared first on Dogster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren’t considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.
I used to think of walking the dog as just another daily chore until I had surgery on my right knee and couldn’t walk under my own power for months. Beyond a doubt, the most painful thing about rehab was the sad look on my dog’s face day after a walkless day. Since then, our walks are not only our primary form of bonding and exercise, but also the fulfillment of a promise I made to her.
Walking the dog doesn’t have to be just another part of the daily grind. When it’s part of your regular routine, dog walking has long-term benefits for both of you. Here are some simple steps you can take to turn your dog walk into more of a workout.
1. Get in a rhythm
Walking a dog in snow and ice. Photography © Jupiterimages | PHOTOS.com>> / Getty Images Plus.
Tricia Montgomery, founder and CEO of K9 Fit Club, said the first step is “knowing your body and knowing your dog.” A puppy’s ability is different than a senior dog’s, and a Bluetick Coonhound needs more exercise than a Min Pin. Getting into a rhythm that works for both of you matters.
2. Harness your dog’s energy on a walk
Your ability to walk with your dog, rather than pulling each other, matters, too.
JT Clough, author of 5K Training Guide: Running with Dogs, told me that “the way we’ve always been taught to control our dogs” causes serious “wear and tear on their bodies” and that I might try a harness instead. I did, and both of us felt the difference immediately.
3. Stick to a dog-walking routine
Angel Wasserman, founder of Raleigh’s Paws in Training, suggested creating “a daily walking routine that fits into your daily schedule.” Two 30-minute walks, three to five times a week, is ideal. No matter how far you walk, both you and your dog will be rewarded physically, mentally and emotionally.
4. Terrain and pace matter more than distance
Wasserman said a healthy dog walk “should be about focused, brisk-paced exercise.” To Clough, that means walking fast enough that you’re “just slightly on the edge of being able to talk normally.”
A walk around the block is OK, but, for Clough, “when you get on hilly terrain, grass, or trails — something that’s not just flat surface,” you build more strength and endurance.
5. Only have 10 minutes to dedicate to walking your dog? Make them count!
Any time you spend exercising with your dog is better than none at all. Montgomery said that there are many “little things that you can add to improve not only the bonding time but also the exercise component for both you and your dog.” Clough suggested “pushing the pace” and “walking as hard as you can” if you only have 10 minutes. Wasserman recommended throwing “tennis balls for the dog to chase while you’re getting ready for work” as one way to make the most of your time together.
6. Add some weight
If you are comfortable with a hands-free dog leash, carrying small hand weights adds extra effort to your 10-minute workout. What about weighted dog vests? Montgomery insisted that you consult a veterinarian first, since improper use may lead to unnecessary back, hip and knee problems for your dog. It’s better, Clough said, to engage your dog’s mind by “breaking up the walk and putting some fun play into it,” adding to both your exercise and enjoyment.
7. Switch things upon your walks
Any routine can become stale over time, so how do you keep the daily walk fresh? Vary your routine — a longer walk, a faster pace or more challenging terrain — adds physical and mental stimulation and keeps both you and your dog involved and motivated!
How can you tell if your dog is getting the most out of your walks? Wasserman said, “Listen to your dog. Does he lie down to rest when he comes home, or is he still full of energy and racing around the house?” Adjust your efforts accordingly.
The benefits of walking your dog pass up and down the leash. Exercise routines that become habits decrease anxiety and hyperactivity, increase energy, aid digestion, and help us sleep better.
Want to lose weight with your dog? See how you and your dog can get fit and healthy together >>
Walking the dog in winter — a few tips
A man walking his dogs in the snow. Photography by Dora Zett / Shutterstock.
Can you and your dog stick to an exercise routine when freezing rain, snow or ice is on the ground? Yes! Our experts offer tips for keeping in shape and staying safe:
- Walking in extreme cold? Angel Wasserman favors flannel or fleece dog clothes, which cover the back and sides only. Make sure that garments with hoods or leg sleeves don’t restrict natural movement.
- For Tricia Montgomery, exercising with a dog in wintry conditions is about confidence. She recommended slower, more controlled walks, and to be aware of your dog’s tolerance for cold weather.
- Exercise with your dog indoors! If your home has stairs, JT Clough said, “What if you did 10 sets of stairs 10 times and took your dog with you?” You can work many muscle groups without stepping outside!
Plus, discover more ways you can benefit from walking >>
Thumbnail: Photography by Blazej Lyjak / Shutterstock.
This piece was originally published in 2015.
About the author:
Melvin Peña trained as a scholar and teacher of 18th-century British literature before turning his research and writing skills to puppies and kittens. He enjoys making art, hiking, and concert-going, as well as dazzling crowds with operatic karaoke performances. He has a two-year-old female Bluetick Coonhound mix named Baby, and his online life is conveniently encapsulated here.
Read more about walking dogs on Dogster.com:
- Is Your Dog Pulling on His Leash? How to Get Him to Stop
- Why You Should Let Your Dog Sniff During Walks
- Walking With a Dog Harness Instead of a Collar Will Change My Dog’s Life
The post 7 Ways to Turn Walking the Dog Into a Workout by Melvin Peña appeared first on Dogster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren’t considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.
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