It’s finally spring! And for many of us this means getting out and about with our dogs more. Walking is an incredibly beneficial exercise for muscle health, so how can we make the most of it? 

Before You Start

Many of us over winter will have been doing the bare minimum when it comes to outdoor activities. There is no judgement here, it rained for something like 6 weeks and even some dogs were getting tired of the constant damp. So, we do need to be honest about how fit our dogs are. It can be tempting to clip the lead on and head out on a 10-mile hike and likely our dogs will try and keep up, they are just like that. This, however, may increase risk of injury.

Sharp increase in activity = increased fatigue = increased risk of injury. 

This does not rule out longer walks, but if that is your plan think about building up. Slowly increase difficulty and duration over a few weeks to help improve fitness. Don’t forget to allow rest after exercise. 

Walking is King

Walking is a great work out and not to be underestimated. All four paws hit the ground and push of at slightly different times, meaning each limb works independently. Therefore, walking is a low impact activity that helps build muscle stability. 

Walking on different surfaces is a great way to encourage different workouts -

Woods 

Uneven and varied surfaces, stepping over logs and roots encourages balancing, proprioception and lifting of the limbs. The woods is a great place to play scent-based games or treat searches, or you know, to just allow your dog to explore. 

Beach

A lot of dogs love the beach, but it is worth considering if it is suitable for your dog. Sand is an unstable surface and while the resistance can be a workout for the limbs and the core for some dogs this may exasperate any existing issues. 

Pavements/Paths 

Even surfaces offer stability. Surfaces which are flat and smooth can encourage good balance to help dogs develop a regular gait. For dogs needed to build strength this can be especially useful, but harder surfaces can be high impact on joints.

Grass

A slightly softer surface so low impact on joints. Length of grass matters with short grass and long grass offering different workouts. Short grass encourages proprioception and lifting the limbs. Longer grass encourages dogs to lift their limbs higher with more resistance.

Hills 

Walking up hill requires dogs to engage the hindlimbs to push themselves up, wheras down hill is a good exercise for core and stability. Hills do not have to be big to benefit, slight inclines or declines may also be beneficial. 

Always make sure your dog is fit enough for the activity and environment you choose - if you dog has musculoskeletal issues please contact a proffessional to get advice about the best environments for walking your dog. 

Don’t forget! 

Dog’s do not walk at our pace so we may find we need to adapt our pace to allow our dogs to walk comfortably.

AND if your dog is walking at your side ensure they can walk on both sides.

Walking can be a fun and enriching activity for your dog - check out my previous post on why it is important to include joy for dogs with pain here.

In the Newcastle upon Tyne area an interested in how Galen Myotherapy and massage can help your dog? Contact me here.