Dog Treadmills

There has been some controversy over the use of dog treadmills. Some people love them, and some people hate them. In my opinion, it is all about implementation. Using a treadmill to keep your dog in top physical shape, can be a wonderful experience for both you and your dog. However if dog treadmills are used improperly, it is at best unpleasant for your dog, at worst downright dangerous. This article will show you the benefits of dog treadmills, how to pick the right one, and safety precautions that you will need to follow.

The main benefit of dog treadmills are to work off extra energy and to promote physical fitness. They should not be considered a substitute for a walk outdoors, but a supplemental exercise for high-energy dogs. As an example, let’s say the dog’s owner is 75 years old and just doesn’t have the stamina for three hour long walks a day? What about those that suffer from bad health and just cannot keep up with the dog’s activity level? There can be valid reasons for using a treadmill, and the first consideration should always be what is best for the dog.

The biggest safety rule is to never tie the dog to the treadmill, unless you are sitting right there. As a general rule, you should take your dog out to relieve his bladder before sessions. In addition, do not allow your dog to drink large amounts of water right before treadmill use, or immediately after. With the motorized treadmills you will want to provide constant supervision, with a dog powered treadmill it is not as critical.

With a dog powered treadmill, or stationary treadmill, your dog controls exactly how fast he would like to go. If you are shopping for a treadmill, there are some things to look out for. In general, dogs do not like the center post, it feels like they are running while facing a wall.

Proper sizes for the treadmill belt for your dog:
Small Dog: 4 feet long by 12 inches wide
Medium Dog: 5 feet long by 14 inches wide
Large Dog: 6 feet long by 18 inches wide
Extra Large Dog: 7 feet long by 24 inches wide

Getting your dog accustomed to the treadmill, may take about a week. The most important rule is to make it fun for your dog, do not force him to do anything he isn’t comfortable with. Slowly work him into it, by standing on the treadmill (while it’s not moving), and invite him to sit with you. Try to get him to sit on the belt, again while it’s not moving, all by himself. Give him a treat. Eventually, turn it on to the slowest speed and see if he wants to get on. Dog treadmill sessions should only last a few minutes at a time, for the first few weeks. Once dogs are trained on the treadmill, and know it is safe, they will be asking for more treadmill time.