Introduction
Exercise enthusiasts
know that jogging is one of the healthiest forms of
aerobic exercise - for both the human and canine
jogger! A dog is a wonderful jogging companion
but it is more fun for both if certain rules are
followed.
You want the dog to realize
that it is in the dog's best
interest to keep a loose
leash because a tight leash
means the walk stops.. |
The
Rules for Road.jpg)
Just like with humans, dogs must
gradually build up their exercise endurance. If you
have a dog that is out of shape or older, this is
especially important. Before training for that 25K
run with your canine companion, make sure both of
you are in good health and extend the amount of
exercise
gradually over a
period of time. It would be a good idea for you both
to have a training schedule so that neither one of
you overdoes it.
Canine Jogging Companions
Begin your jogging routine with
a brisk walk to warm up. This
also allows the dog to sniff,
urinate and enjoy a sensory
sensation! Once the jogging
starts, teach the dog
that you decide when to start
and stop the jogging. It's a
good idea to stop jogging and
slow to a walk before, during
and after your jog to allow the
dog to sniff and empty the tank.
If the dog does urinate or
defecate, the jogger needs to
stop and give the dog this time.
Remember to clean up after your
dog to keep dogs welcome in
jogging areas. The easiest
way to do this is to keep
baggies and a plastic grocery
bag in your pocket. Reverse the
baggie to glove your hand to
pick up the feces. Then put the
baggie into the plastic grocery
bag for easier handling until
you can dispose of the feces and
in a waste receptacle.
Praise the dog for jogging at
your side without pulling ahead
or lagging behind.
If he or she begins to pull,
then simply give the instruction,
"Easy"
as a reminder with a gentle,
quick tug on the leash. Soon the
dog should understand that
"easy" means to ease-up on
the lead. You want the dog to
realize that it is in the dog's
best interest to keep a loose
leash.
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It's an excellent
idea is to teach the dog to stop at every curb. Cue
the dog by slowing down as you approach the curb.
Just before the curb, tell the dog to "Wait."
This instruction cues the dog to stop and wait for
permission to cross the curb. If the dog steps
off the curb, pull the dog back or use a body block
and say, "No!" followed by the instruction,
"Wait."
Praise the dog for complying.
You may want to ask the dog to sit and wait. Do not
do any heavy jerking. Simply make it impossible for
the dog to proceed once the "wait"
instruction is given.