Four-legged fitness - exercising with your dog

American Fitness, July-August, 1997

Make no bones about it. If you are among the estimated 55 million dog owners in the United States, chances are you will participate in some type of outdoor activity this summer with your pet. If you are ready to "embark" on a regular exercise program, there a few considerations to keep in mind before you head o in the heat, according to the Waltham Center for Pet Nutrition (WCPN) in Leicestershire, England. For the past 30 years, the center's scientists and veterinarians have researched the diet and behavior of dogs and cats to further the understanding of their health care needs.

WCPN advises owners to slow the pace or take a break if their dog begins to lag or pant excessively in the heat. "Canines have a much better sense of their physiology," says James H. Sokolowski, DVM, Ph.D., professional services manager for Waltham USA in Vernon, California. "So pay attention to what they're telling you. If they reject the idea of exercise on a hot day, that means their bodies aren't up to it."

Flat-nosed dogs like pugs, bulls and Pekinese have more problems breathing when temperature rise. These breeds, as well as others, can suffer from heat exhaustion if pushed too far. "If you are exercising on a hot day, find a shady spot for your dog to rest," says Sokolowski. "Water or ice cubes should also be available to help them cool off."

Limit your pet's water intake before and after exercise. Dogs may throw up if their tummies are full. Sokolowski suggests giving dogs only small amount of water and a little snack (like a biscuit) during exercise to increase stamina. He also says dogs should avoid drinking water they find along outdoor paths. Standing water can create the potential for disease transmission.

The best pet partners to take inline skating, cycling or jogging are medium to larger dogs. Working, sporting and herding breeds are natural born track stars. Short-legged and flat-faced dogs are better off with a brisk walk, advises Sokolowski. "There are exceptions to every breed," he says. "You may find someone who jogs with their Dachshund every morning and never has any problems." To reduce wear and tear on paw pads, exercise on grass or other soft surfaces.

If your dog suddenly stops during a morning jog, it doesn't necessarily indicate an obedience problem. Dogs "see" their world by smell, according to Sokolowski. In fact, dogs have 450 million nerve endings in their nose, while humans only have 9 million. Therefore, let your dog take frequent breaks to enjoy the scents from the neighborhood.

Cycling with your pet requires skill and practice. Ears and tails have been known to get caught in cycle spokes when owners lose control of their bike or dogs, warns Sokolowski. He suggest cycling in non-crowded areas and using a collar and leash to control the direction of the dog.

For mountain biking, make sure your pet's paw pads have been properly conditioned on surfaces like concrete, asphalt or rocks. Pads need to be toughened before exercising on off-road areas, says Sokolowski. Check with your veterinarian or pet store for astringents that encourage callous production. In addition, bring along your own fresh water supply if you're going to be on the trails for long periods. Water purifier tablets can cause stomach aches in dogs.

Swimming is another popular cardiovascular exercise to do with dogs, but they should be closely supervised in lakes or oceans -- even in pools. If the water is too cold, pets can suffer from hypothermia, according to Sokolowski. Dry off long-haired animals properly after taking a dip to prevent the onset of sickness.

As pets get older, their activity level gradually declines. However, dogs become "boomers' at different ages, according to Sokolowski. He says large or giant breeds like Irish Wolfhounds or Mastiffs show signs of aging at 5 or 6, while medium and smaller breeds don't reach their senior years until 8 or 9. "Older animals should do something like a 'runner's stretch' warm-up before exercise," says Sokolowski. "Take the dog for a brisk walk or up and down some stairs before doing your usual exercise program."

For owners who like to play games with their pets in the backyard or park, fitness toys are provided through Waltham's Pedigree line. Accessories include Frame Ball, which can be used for tugging, chasing and retrieving and Quattro, which bounces unpredictably due to its unique shape.

Remember, safety is key when beginning any activity with a pet all year-round. "Moderation is important," advises Sokolowski. "Don't start with a 10K jog. Check with your vet to get a clean bill of health, and start slow."

E-mail questions about pet fitness and nutrition to Waltham researchers at http://www.waltham.com.