Oh, this weather! A spring storm with snow and rain is bogging down Denver, making walking the dog a very soggy experience. How can you exercise your dog if the weather is too hot, too cold, too snowy, or too rainy? Make use of that treadmill that has been collecting dust since your ‘New Years Resolution,’ that’s what I do!
Treadmill Training: A Great Supplemental Exercise Tool
My working dogs love to trot on the treadmill. Sometime they will even ‘ask’ me to turn it on by going and standing on it of their own accord. It really is a handy tool to have with two high energy shepherds. It’s a versatile and convenient tool. Sometimes I’m too tired to play tug or go for a long stroll, or sometimes I use it as part of a ‘cool-down’ routine after an intense training session. I often use the treadmill for training aggressive dogs as a part of their overall behavior modification plan. They can get some cardio without endangering themselves or others, and get into a better headspace for training through appropriate physical exercise.
You can train your dog to love the treadmill, too!
1. Using high value food rewards, lure your dog on to the treadmill and mark and reward them for simply standing on the treadmill. Use a leash and collar to steady them on the treadmill. Repeat this several times, until the dog is happily jumping on the machine.
2. Start the treadmill, but keep the speed LOW. Steady your dog using a harness or collar while standing at their side. Praise them and use high value food rewards to communicate that being on the treadmill is a rewarding experience! Repeat this step several times until your dog is happily and comfortably walking on the treadmill.
3. Adjust the speed so that your dog is walking a little faster, and then eventually trotting. Periodically mark and reward your dog for maintaining the pace.
Types of Treadmills for Dogs
There are many different types of dog treadmills on the market, and each serve a slightly different purpose.
- DogPacer treadmills are the most similar to the human-version we know and love. They have a long running deck so your dog can really get a good stride in, and have computer-controlled speeds that you can set. They also have different “programs” that will automatically change the pace for you as your dog goes through a set time limit. These are great for cardio but as they are not dog-propelled you do need to be mindful of the speed and duration.
- Slatmills are dog propelled and are great for conditioning and allowing your dog to REALLY open up into a sprint. They are the most expensive type of dog treadmill on the market, and tend to be owned by dog owners with serious canine athletes.
- Carpet mills are similar to slatmills, and are also dog-propelled. I have found they do require you to be nearby to motivate the dog, as they require more effort from the dog to get going.
For most dog owners, I recommend starting with a DogPacer. They tend to be a great starting point, and are relatively cost effective.
Tips and Tricks for Treadmill Training a Dog
- GO SLOWLY! Rushing the training process can cause a fear response to the treadmill.
- Be sure your dog has mastered each step before moving forward.
- Position the treadmill so one side is against a wall, preventing your dog from falling off the side.
- Try not to drop the treats! Your dog may try to follow them while the treadmill is in motion.
- Always supervise your dog. DO NOT tie them to the treadmill or leave them unattended.
- Always take your dog’s physical fitness into consideration, and don’t over-do it.
Treadmill training your dog can be a great way to add some additional physical exercise into their routine. Treadmills are great for snowy/wet/hot days, when outdoor exercise just isn’t in the cards. Once a dog is trained on a treadmill, you can often multi-task while they get in their cardio; just make sure you are close by supervising them, but go ahead and fold that laundry while your dog gets in a good run! It is important to remember that treadmill training does not replace intentional physical and mental exercise spent with our dogs; you should make sure you are spending meaningful time together training, exercising, and exploring whenever possible.
