As a pet parent, you always want the best for your dog, especially when it comes to keeping them healthy, active, and mentally stimulated. You may have something put together already in terms of their exercise routine. Your dog may also be reaping plenty of beneficial rewards for the active lifestyle they are living.
What some pet parents are doing these days is using dog treadmills. Typically, these may be used as a supplemental form of exercise or an alternative on rainy days. However, the question that needs to be asked is: Are dog treadmills actually that good for them? We’ll answer this question and more in this guide, so let’s jump in and begin.
What Are Dog Treadmills?
Dog treadmills are exercise machines that are designed to support the body structure, gait, and safety needs of your dog. While they are designed to resemble the treadmills humans use, there are some differences, such as quieter motors, side rails, and other settings that can accommodate your dog and their varying levels of comfort. These dog treadmills can be motorized or non-motorized, depending on what will be the better fit for your dog.
Of course, they also come in different designs that are fitted for the respective sizes of breeds. You can get a small one for a Shih Tzu or a large one for your golden retriever. If you have a high-energy breed like an Australian Shepherd, there’s a treadmill for that, too. These treadmills may be considered one of the safer alternatives compared to human treadmills, which have different speed settings and exposed parts that can be unsafe for pets.
What Are the Benefits of Dog Treadmills?
Dog treadmills can offer numerous benefits. Whether your dog is hindered by limited outdoor activities or dealing with regular health issues, they can experience the benefits of regular treadmill use. They include the following:
Great for Dogs on Extreme Weather Days
If the weather is too hot or too cold, it’ll be unsafe for dogs. Heavy rain, snow, or ice is also a no-go for them to go outdoors. As such, dog treadmills can be an excellent option for your dog to move around indoors. They can stay active all year long, even in the wintertime when it may be unsafe to take them on a walk outside.
Excellent for High-Energy Breeds
You may have a breed such as a Husky, Belgian Malinois, or a Border Collie. These are some of the breeds that’ll require more exercise than an average walk. For this reason, you can consider using a dog treadmill to help them expend that energy productively. Here’s an even better benefit: it can reduce behaviors that a dog may exhibit due to boredom or a lack of stimulation, such as digging or chewing.
Ideal for Those Living in an Urban or Apartment Setting
Your living environment may lack a yard, or you may be in an area where leash walks are quite short and crowded. Thus, a dog treadmill can make sense when it comes to providing your four-legged companion with the exercise they need safely and effectively.
Rehabilitation and Weight Management
If your dog has recently been injured or is recovering from surgery, veterinarians and canine physical therapists may recommend that your dog benefit from low-impact conditioning exercises, such as controlled treadmill workouts. This can be particularly effective when paired with other therapeutic approaches, such as hydrotherapy. Treadmills are excellent for overweight dogs, as well as for when they need to regain a healthy weight while eating a balanced diet that will help them achieve their goals.
Are Dog Treadmills Safe?
Dog treadmills can be safe if used properly and with regular supervision. At the same time, you will need to keep a few safety considerations in mind when it’s being used. These include the following:
Start Slow
Like anything else new for your dog, starting off slowly with treadmill training is essential. Give them a chance to sniff the treadmill and listen to the motor before they step on it. Begin with the lowest speed and start with short sessions of 1 to 2 minutes. When your dog becomes more confident, you can increase the length of the sessions as well as the speed (albeit slightly).
Always Supervise Them
You should never leave your dog unattended on a treadmill, given the potential for accidents that may happen, especially if your dog is anxious, distracted, or attempts to dismount from the treadmill itself. Always supervise them to ensure they do not get injured. Treadmill time can begin and end only when you're around.
Choose the Right Treadmill for Your Dog’s Size
Small dogs may require a treadmill with a shorter and narrower belt. On the other hand, larger breeds will need a treadmill that provides them with more room, which will feel natural for them. Of course, the one thing that you want to avoid is a mismatch in equipment size. Not only will things feel awkward, but it can also lead to health issues later on. These can include poor posture, joint stress, and other risks of injury.
Avoid Overuse
The treadmill should not be the only thing your dog can rely on to maintain an active lifestyle, nor should it be a permanent substitute for real-world walks and interactions. Your dog will still need the mental stimulation that accompanies their walks, including outdoor time, the many smells they might encounter, and much more. A treadmill exercise can be beneficial when outdoor walks are not feasible on some days.
When Are Dog Treadmills a Good Idea?
While not every dog may need a treadmill, there may be situations where one might be the best fit. Let’s take a look at what they are so you can determine if they are worth investing in for your dog’s physical health needs:
- During Recovery from Injury or Surgery: If professionally supervised, your dog can participate in slow treadmill sessions, allowing them to improve their mobility and strength over time.
- If You Are in a Time Crunch: A busy schedule could hinder a dog’s workout routine if there is a small amount of time. However, this can be alleviated with a 10-minute session that may hold them over until their next walk outdoors.
- For Dogs with Behavioral Issues: Your dog can behave better if they are tired. It’s true. For this reason, a treadmill workout can help reduce destructive behaviors caused by excess energy.
- If Your Dog Is on a Weight Loss Plan: One major requirement for weight loss is controlled exercise. Your dog’s workouts can be low-impact and consistent while balancing them with a healthy diet that can help them contribute to their overall weight loss goals.
When Shouldn’t a Dog Use a Treadmill?
While using a treadmill has its benefits for dogs, there are situations where caution or even avoidance is necessary. These include the following situations:
- Dogs Who Are Anxious or Nervous: Yes, treadmills can be frightening or overwhelming for a dog. Don’t force them to use it if they don’t want to. This can lead to worsened anxiety and increased injury risk (especially if they attempt to dismount from the treadmill).
- Dogs with Heart or Respiratory Conditions: Your vet can determine if a treadmill is not the best fit due to your dog’s heart or respiratory condition. This may increase the risk of possible issues further down the road.
- Puppies or Very Old Dogs: Puppies still have bones and joints developing. Meanwhile, older dogs may experience limited mobility. A vet may approve the use of a treadmill for these types of dogs, but only in rare cases.
Tips on How to Train Your Dog on a Treadmill
Training your dog to use a treadmill is a process that takes time and patience. By following these tips, you’ll be able to help them get acquainted with it slowly but surely. Here’s a look at what you need to do:
- Introduce the Equipment: Allow your dog to explore the treadmill while it’s shut off. Offer them treats and praise to help them reward their overall understanding.
- Start with a Leash and Harness: Ensure the harness is secure yet non-restrictive. Do not use a collar, as it can cause strain to your neck and spine.
- Turn It on Without Your Dog: Let them listen to the sound of the motor without them stepping on it.
- Walking Alongside Them: Start the treadmill on the lowest setting. Encourage your dog to walk while standing next to them. You can use verbal encouragement and treats as a reward.
- Start with Short Sessions: Ensure they are no longer than 1 to 2 minutes. Increase when they become more comfortable.
- Monitor Their Body Language: If you notice any signs of stress, such as heavy panting, a tucked tail, or attempts to jump off, it may be time to pause the session.
Supporting Mobility with Exercise and Nutrition
Your dog can live an active and healthy lifestyle, even with some limitations. A dog treadmill can be the best solution for their needs. Aside from that, a healthy diet can also be the perfect match for their exercise needs. Be sure to check out what Under the Weather has in stock for your dog’s regular diet and exercise regimen today!
