How can I safely get my dog in shape for regular walking and jogging?

Question

I would like to start walking with my dog regularly, and eventually start going on jogs. How should I start getting her in shape? Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed | Female | spayed | 2 years and 2 months old

C. Rathjens, DVM · Accepted Answer

This is a great question. Thanks for being proactive. You can get Penelope in shape the same way you or I would. If she's doing nothing now, start with 2-3 walks a day of 5-10 minutes and build up to 30-60 minutes over a few weeks to months. Go slower if she's overweight or has a short nose, and faster if she's very healthy, has a normal length nose, enjoys the walks, and is a normal weight. After she can walk for 30-60 minutes 1-3 times a day, add in 5 minutes of jogging throughout the walk. If you're walking/jogging every single day, you should be able to scale up at a rate of about 5 more minutes every 3-7 days. If you're only jogging weekly or every few days, scale up every other week. Using this routine, you'll be able to slowly build up her endurance. Most dogs can and enjoy running several miles at a time and some enjoy much more. If she is a short nosed dog, ask your veterinarian before starting this routine to make sure it would be safe for Penelope. Be cautious when it's very hot out because dogs can get dangerously hot while jogging very quickly. She should be able to calm down and stop panting after a walk within about 10 minutes. Finally, if you end up jogging daily, Penelope may need a bit more food. Pay attention to her hips and ribs to make sure they aren't getting too bony.

How can I safely get my dog in shape for regular walking and jogging?

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