Treadmill Training for Your Dog: The Fitness Secrets Every Dog Owner Should Know

Treadmill training is on the rise. More and more people are teaching their pooches the ins and outs of indoor exercise. There are videos all over YouTube of dogs walking and running on treadmills. The funny thing is that they seem happy and are not being forced by the owners. The reasons why people resort to treadmill training vary, but treadmill exercise should never replace the real thing. If you are considering putting your pooch through the training, think about why you are doing it in the first place.

One reason an owner may want to train the dog to use a treadmill is based on the dog’s breed. Many breeds (especially working breeds) have loads of energy that is usually released “on the job.” For instance, Australian Shepherds are natural herders. When they are not herding, they look for ways to burn up the energy. Many owners take Australian Shepherds and other similar breeds home, but do not give the dogs jobs to do. The dogs end up resorting to destructive behaviors, such as digging holes, barking excessively, and attempting to escape, in order to release the built up energy. Dogs like this can benefit from a walk or run on the treadmill, especially if the animal is being kept indoors. Be careful not to overwork your pooch, and constantly keep up with his treadmill time.

Another reason for treadmill training is involves both breed and climate. Some dogs are made for specific climates and have trouble adapting to others. For instance, the Siberian Husky is more suited for cold climates. Huskies have thick, multi-layered coats and can withstand very low temperatures. A Husky can survive in warm or hot climate regions but require additional care. Since Huskies are susceptible to heat strokes and dehydration in warmer climates, they shouldn’t be exercised for too long or during the hottest part of the day. But, like all dogs, they need their exercise. Not only are Huskies cold weather dogs, they are also a working breed, meaning they need extra activity to get rid of excess energy. On extremely hot days or really any day, the Husky can benefit from a run on the treadmill.

Dogs thrive on routines. They look forward to their morning walks and their evening playtimes. Often, setting a routine for a dog can help correct temperament and destructive behavior problems. Weather is an additional reason for teaching a dog how to use a treadmill; and, alas, the weather is out of our control. If thunderstorms plague the area the entire day, then it is unlikely that your pooch will get to enjoy his daily exercise. Or, if the temperatures get too high, outdoor exercise can be dangerous. The energy will build up, and your dog will start bouncing off the walls. Even though it’s not nice outside, your dog needs a way to get rid of the energy and stay on his schedule. That’s why uncontrollable and unfavorably weather conditions are another reason to let your pooch run on a treadmill.

Treadmill exercise is an easy way to stay inside. As owners, we sometimes resort to the treadmill for reasons other than weather. We find excuses to stay home and exercise; before we know it, we haven’t been to the gym in a month. Don’t pass the same behavior off to your pet. You and your dog should have a daily exercise routine. Whether it’s a long walk or an invigorating jog, you should spend time exercising with your pooch outdoors. Never let the treadmill take the place of a daily exercise routine. Instead, the treadmill should be used as an addition to an arranged routine or used when weather conditions prohibit outdoor activity.

Practice safety when putting your pooch on the treadmill. Let him take breaks, and give him access to plenty of water. Never leave your pup alone while the treadmill is in operation, and never tie him to a moving treadmill. If your dog is under the weather or does not want to use the equipment, then respect his behavior and do not force him into the exercise.

There are times when using a treadmill can greatly benefit your pooch. Breed, climate, and weather are all factors that can determine whether or not your dog needs to be treadmill trained. Never let the treadmill take the place of your daily activity, and always keep your pet out of harm’s way. If you think treadmill training is right for your pet, then do some research and start the process!