“I’ll Show You How to Walk the Dog”

By Laura Layton

Your dog needs exercise. You need exercise. Sounds like a perfect match …right? Before you head out for a run — or walk — make sure you and your pooch are road — or trail — ready.

First Things First
Before you and your dog begin any exercise program it is a good idea to be checked out by a doctor (however not by the same doctor!).

Not all dogs are built for walking — or fitness walking.

Dogs with short legs may have a difficult time keeping up with you. Dogs with flat, squished faces will have a hard time breathing and keeping cool. Dogs with long, thick coats may have to wait on the sidelines until the winter. These dogs can overheat quickly, which can cause a very dangerous situation.

Puppies younger than six months may not be ready for a run or a vigorous long walk. Their paws may still be pink and their frame may still be developing. Check with your vet.

Will your running or walking be on pavement or on trails? Either way, make sure your dog’s paws are durable enough to handle the miles. Remember, you have shoes on — they don’t. Start with shorter walks and gradually move on to longer walks to allow your dog’s paws time to toughen up.

Gearing Up for You
You’ve probably heard it a million times, but it’s always worth repeating — wearing the right shoes is the MOST important thing you can do to avoid getting injured. Adding more cushioning is not always better. A technical running/walking store can be a very valuable resource. Next, by eliminating cotton from your workout wardrobe (shirts, shorts, socks) you will be drier, more comfortable, and blister free. Cotton holds moisture close to your skin, reducing your body’s ability to cool or warm itself. (See apparel story on page 12.)

A sturdy waist belt with a water bottle holder and zip pockets will also make your outing with your dog easy and enjoyable.

Gearing Up for Your Dog
Make sure your dog has proper identification on at all times. Never use a choke collar for running or fitness walking. Your dog needs all the air she can get. Use a Halti or Gentle Leader to keep your dog from pulling.

Use a flat durable leash. Avoid flexi-leashes. They defeat the purpose of a Gentle Leader or other anti-pulling devices.

Don’t forget a collapsible bowl for water breaks… and poop bags, lots of poop bags.

Form and Function
Good form is the key to avoiding injuries — especially when you have a dog attached to you.

Attach your dog’s leash to your waist and get some extra security by gripping the leash about half way. Be careful not to let the dog pull you along. This is a sure way to injure your back. Use your time together to practice basic commands such as: ”heel,“ ”sit,“ and ”wait“ at the appropriate times. Be confident and in control.

By getting out and getting some exercise together, you and your dog will be rewarded with better fitness and a closer relationship.

Laura Layton is a volunteer at the Oregon Humane Society. She is the leader of the K-9 Running Club — a unique Oregon Humane Society program in which a select group of volunteers take dogs from the shelter out for a four- to six-mile run or walk every week.