Can we put our dog on the treadmill? We have put him on a strict diet and are trying to take him out on more walks, but some days, I would like to just sit and read a magazine while he's walking on the treadmill. Is this safe?
*SERIOUS answers only*
2006-10-21 17:31:26 · 18 answers · asked by Anonymous in Pets ➔ Dogs
"Meli" you wrote:
"I'm sorry, but I think if you have an overweight dog, it is a sign that YOU are NOT getting enough exercise"
I'd like to inform you that I am a very fit and thin woman. I put 45 minutes a day at the gym. I do not want to do 45 minutes for my own body, then another 45 minutes for the dog. That is why I am asking if I can put him on the treadmill.
2006-10-21 17:46:48 · update #1
As long as you have it going at the slowest speed and under your constant supervision, I can't see why not, as long as you're careful and he's not scared of it. Just start out by getting him to stand on it while it's not moving and getting him used to it.
Only problem that I can see is that dogs like to stop and sniff...if he tried that he may get thrown off the end and injured, or try to walk out sideways and hurt himself.
I'd be interested to hear how you get on.
2006-10-21 17:41:05 · answer #1 · answered by Loz 6 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Yes it is safe if you be CAREFUL on how you do it. Put a leash on your dog. Start out by standing on the other side of the treadmill from the dog.Guide the dog to step onto the treadmill without turning it on. This may take some coaxing. Have him step back off. Have him stand on it again and offer him a treat. Give him praise. Take him off again. With the dog on the treadmill and his leash shortened up in your hand, (you are standing on the other side) turn it on a very slow setting. Stay right there with him as he begins to walk at a slow pace. DO NOT LEAVE HIM ALONE to read a magazine! Never tie him to the treadmill either. For the dog's safety just have him walk at a slow pace for a few minutes. Let the dog stop walking as you turn it off. Give him praise again. Slowly over days build the dog up to about 15 minutes. Please don't turn the treadmill up to make him run on it. A nice slow pace is all it takes. DO NOT by any means leave the dog alone while he is on the treadmill.
2006-10-21 17:58:52 · answer #2 · answered by woooh! 5 · 1⤊ 0⤋
It depends. If it is a small dog, I would say no. Large dogs can do well tho on a treadmill. A lot of show breeders use treadmills to keep their dogs in shape. Just don't put the speed on too high.
2006-10-21 17:38:28 · answer #3 · answered by Anonymous · 2⤊ 0⤋
Yes, the treadmill is a great way to exercise your pet. My vet indicated that as long ans the dog did not have to go beyond a trot, it was a very good work out for him. He was 30 pounds over weight and he lost the weight in about four months with diet and exercise.
2006-10-21 17:35:54 · answer #4 · answered by housemouse62451 4 · 3⤊ 0⤋
Take your dog for a freaking walk lady, is it really going to interfere with your celebrity magazine reading time to walk your dog for 15 or 20 minutes. Jesus Christ, somebody should tie you up to a treadmill while your dog watches old episodes of Lassie.
2006-10-21 17:42:22 · answer #5 · answered by ? 4 · 3⤊ 0⤋
I would not use it in place of a walk. The Dog Whisperer uses them for overweight animals plus the walks. you should never leave them unsupervised on a treadmill.
2006-10-22 17:13:22 · answer #6 · answered by MANDYLBH 4 · 1⤊ 0⤋
I would not think it would be a good idea. Dog do better at running and walking. You might want to try taking a walk with your dog. I am sure he would like that.
2006-10-21 17:51:50 · answer #7 · answered by Preacher's Daughter 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
It really depends. Be sure it's slow and not too fast! It is a good way to exersise your dog!!! You can also look up on the computer if there is a place where you leave your dog for a while and it will get exersise.
Good Luck!!!
2006-10-21 17:47:19 · answer #8 · answered by ? 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
There are dogs that do it, but you would need to stay there with him so if he gets exhausted or wants off you can help him. I wouldn't tie him to it and go off somewhere else. And make sure you use a slow speed. Just be careful. Of course, he might not want to do it either.
2006-10-21 17:43:49 · answer #9 · answered by Lola 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
i believe that it is ok to do that, as long as you are sure that he is safe while doing it, i mean that he wouldn't get stuck on anything... but i think it would be best if you would walk with your dog..good for your dog and good for you.. its hitting two birds with one stone... at the same time its a good way to bond with your dog..
goodluck with the exercise ;)
2006-10-21 22:00:15 · answer #10 · answered by future_gurl 1 · 0⤊ 0⤋