You - Obesity - Your Dog = Exercise

You - Obesity - Your Dog = Exercise

In 1989, a study of children and teenagers in the United States revealed that 5% to 25% of our children were obese. In 1999, a study revealed that 13% of children 6 to 11 years of age, and 14% of adolescents 12 to 19 years of age were overweight. If we do not stop this alarming increase, we are likely to see children who are on average 70% heavier than their 1960s counterparts by the year 2010.

What's that I hear you say? "Ok Ken this blog is about dogs not fat!"

I know, I know, I'm getting back to the subject right now, but understand there is a connection between weight management, fitness and helping your dog live longer with regular exercise.

Walking your dog on a regular basis is a win-win solution to both your general health and that of your best friend. Walking your dog is a nice way to get fit and also to enjoy the day by just walking around. It is good for the dog as well. It keeps your dog nice and healthy and helps give your dog every chance of increasing his/her longevity.

Six steps to get started walking your dog.

1. Pick up your lead, it signals to the dog that it is about to go for a walk. Make your dog sit patiently as you clip on the lead. You could use a treat to lure the dog to sit if you if he/she is accustomed to that incentive. Make sure your only clip on the lead when the dog is obedient and sitting still, going for a walk is on your terms, not theirs.

2. Walk him over to the door or your gate, ready for the walk. It's a good idea to use the same exit each day, this will help your dog understand the procedure and know what's about to take place.

3. Wait by the door and make your dog sit. Tell them "wait". Make sure your dog waits inside as you step outside, and then say, "Ok come on!" or one word command "come" and allow the dog to walk outside. Never just let the dog burst outside. Wait is basically stay, except the dog is expecting you to release it from the wait soon. Wait can be very useful when you answer the door and your dog obediently stands inside without you having to hold their collar to stop them jumping all over your visitors.

4. Try not to pull on the lead. Your dog will walk at its own pace, which may be faster than you. In that case, don't let the dog pull you. If the dog is pulling on the leash, tug back on the leash ever so slightly, and be sure not to keep a constant strain on the dog's neck.

5. Don't let your dog off the lead. Only do this in parks (dog parks), and/or on the beach (if allowed). There should be a sign saying whether or not your dog is allowed off the lead in that particular area.

6. When you get back home, take the lead off your (making sure your dog sits still!) dog and fill a dog bowl up with water so that your dog can have a drink.

Tips.

If you're going for a long walk, stop a couple of times so that you don't tire out your dog if it isn't in good shape. If there are no drinking fountains on your walking route and you are walking any great distance It's also a good idea to take some water with you, for both you and your dog.

Consider carrying around a handful of dog biscuits for a little snack. It does not hurt to reward your dog occasionally when they obey your commands. If your dog constantly pulls on the lead, you might try one of the gentle lead products (like the Halti, for example) available. Or, even better, train your dog not to pull (which isn't that difficult).

Don't forget to bring a plastic bag to clean up the poop. Though it's recommended you have the dog go before you take it out for a walk.

If your dog does decide to pull, there are a few ways to help curb the problem. Don't pull your dog back to you. Pulling the dog backwards will jade your dog to the pressure of the leash and teach him that if you want him back, he can just wait for you to pull. Instead decide on a distance you'd like your dog to pace you at, such as with his forelegs next to yours, or with his neck next to your legs. Start by walking with a loose lead, and if the dog creeps out in front turn immediately around and start walking in the opposite direction. A quick little tug might help get his attention. Soon your dog will learn to pay attention to you and walk close enough that he can see you change directions, otherwise risk walking the wrong way and getting a smart little tug on the leash. Another way is to tell your dog to "stop" "sit" then shorten the length of the leash and try walking your dog directly at your side.

Make sure to check weather conditions as well as your walking route. Remember that unlike us, your dog has fur, which can make it extremely uncomfortable when walking distances in the blistering heat.

If you can, try to walk a little ahead of the dog in order to communicate that YOU are the leader of the pack, not him/her.

Although particular commands are important, also talk to your dog in plain English along with these commands. Your speech is full of inflections and patterns that your dog will understand, even if it doesn't know that details of what you're saying. Similarly, never lie to your dog. Dogs can sense it. Click here and take a look at SitStayFetch, I am sure it will help you and your canine friend enjoy each others company. More info available here.

Benefits and problems of off-leash dog parks.

Dogs that are highly socialized and exercised are healthier and happier. They make better neighbors because they bark and dig out of their enclosure less often. If they do escape, they are far less likely to be aggressive.

Like all recreation activities, certain safeguards need to be put in place before an off-leash dog park should be established. The first objective is to ensure that the location of the off-leash park is appropriate.

I'll cover off-leash dog parks in more detail tomorrow, please bookmark this blog and return for updates.

Until next time.
Pat A Pooch.

Ken Mathie.

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