It has been raining outside and your German Shepherd who has been inside all day is getting restless and rowdy. You know he wants to go outside and exercise, but with the weather, there must be something else he can do. You turn to see your treadmill and wonder, can I my German Shepherd also use it?
You can put your German Shepherd on a treadmill. A treadmill is a good alternative for owners who are unable to take their dog for a walk due to weather, sickness or even injury. They are a great way for them to stay fit or burn off some of that extra energy. While it is safe, there are some considerations to take into account.
German Shepherds are dogs that require a lot of activity and as a dog owner, there are things you can do to better understand how to help your dog with indoor activities such as being on a treadmill. Keep reading to find ways to train and mitigate possible issues to help you and your dog enjoy indoor exercise.
How Do You Introduce your German Shepherd to a Treadmill?
It seems natural for us humans to hop on the treadmill and go for a quick run. But for our furry friends it can be new and bit uncomfortable for some dogs. Here are some tips to help your dog adjust
- To introduce your dog to a treadmill start bit slower and as your dog eases into their walk, and becomes more experienced with the treadmill, you can gradually increase the speed to their comfort level.
- It is important to be patient as you teach them to get on, walk a little bit, then reward them. Understand they may be a bit scared at first when it starts moving. It just takes time to help them feel comfortable. Repeat this until it they do so.
- Finally, an unfortunate method is to lease the dog to the treadmill, this could be very dangerous for the dog and should not be done. Instead, if your dog is on a lease you should walk beside them.
As a dog owner there are many things you take into consideration when thinking about your pet’s health. Keep reading to learn about advice for your dog getting their indoor workout in.
Is It Cruel to Put A Dog On A Treadmill?
For dog owners, our furry friend’s health is of the utmost importance. You are always looking for ways to take care of them, and the safest way to do so. Now that you know being on a treadmill is safe, you wonder is it cruel. It sometimes feels that when you have to get on the treadmill, but fear not.
It is not cruel to put your dog on a treadmill, actually, it can be the opposite for your dog keeping them active and in shape. It can be dangerous if they are not properly trained or supervised. This is because fatigue may lead them to try and lay down, or hop off possibly resulting in injury. Likewise, lack of training could cause them to do the same. Here are some tips for your dog to safely get the most benefits from being on a treadmill.
You should wait until your German Shepherd is 18-20 months old before starting them on the treadmill. Next, like any training, they may not take it immediately. While training and supervision are the most important tips, there is always more when taking care of your precious best friend.
How Long Can a Dog Be on A Treadmill?
Dogs, and specifically German Shepherds, are active animals requiring exercise. We know they are smart, and trainable, things that require a lot of time. But, like us, they too require a lot of time to exercise. How much time?
It is usually recommended for about two hours per day and should be broken up several times over the course of a day, especially at first. It would be a good idea to start in small increments to let them get the hang of it, building up to no more than 10-15 minutes at a time. What other factors should you consider when walking a dog on the treadmill?
Not all running is the same. It can depend on the dogs speed or time on the treadmill or even the treadmill itself. Do you need to buy a specific treadmill for your dog? No always. Keep reading to understand more.
Can A Dog Run on A Regular Treadmill?
Sometimes it can be taxing looking at treadmills for a human. Is it the right size, able to adjust incline and speed or does its aesthetic look right for your house. This can be the same for your dog.
Although there are specialized dog treadmills with guard rails and feed dishes available, your dog can use a regular treadmill, though a bigger one might be needed for a bigger dog, such as a German Shepherd. Here are some last tips for your pup to most enjoy their indoor walk.
Low jumps on and off minimize the risks of injury. Finally, like humans, dogs can become bored when looking at the same thing during their walk. Pointing the front of the treadmill from the boring wall in front of you will keep your dog from feeling they will run into it. Try placing it in the middle of the room.
Conclusion
All in all, when considering putting your German Shepherd on a treadmill remember it is a great alternative, though it may take some training and supervision. With proper training and stretches of 10-15 minutes, it is not cruel and actually beneficial. Sometimes there is the occasional equipment cleanup from drool or dirt, but overall, this way you can continue to enjoy the health benefits of an active pup for years to come.