How to Train Your Ridgeback for Endurance Trials

Rhodesian Ridgebacks are the perfect dogs for participating in endurance trials. To compete, you must either run or bike with your dog for twelve miles, with a short break every four miles. Since Ridgebacks were originally bred as hunting dogs and are capable of trotting long distances over many hours, they make an ideal and eager companion for endurance trials.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Dog Leash
• Dog Collar
• Doggy Bags

1. Consult with your veterinarian before starting any training. Make sure your dog is healthy and fit first. Do not start jogging any puppies until they are over a year old. Also, if you've never jogged before, please consult with your doctor first.

2. Begin by jogging your dog at a slow pace for one mile, three times a week. Let him get used to jogging with you on a leash. To start with, pick a place with minimal distractions. This is especially important if you will be on a bike. Be sure to pick a place without small critters to chase, like squirrels or rabbits, since most Ridgebacks would rather chase a bunny than jog nicely on lead. If your dog is not very obedient on the leash, try a training class first, or use a head halter.

3. Each week, you can safely increase the distance of each run by half a mile. As you begin increasing your mileage and feeling more comfortable, start jogging in places with a little more commotion. During the endurance trial, you will be competing with other runners and dogs, so it's a good idea to get your dog used to distractions. Enlist the aid of a friend with a dog to jog with you, if necessary.

4. As you get more comfortable jogging, start to focus on your pace. The pace you'll need to hold when competing in an endurance trial may vary, but most typical is approximately a ten-minute mile.

5. Continue to gradually increase your distance until both you and your Ridgeback are able to comfortably run at least nine miles holding a ten-minute mile pace. Make sure to take a short break during your run, as you will most likely be required to stop for two minutes every four miles during the trial. At that time, offer your dog just a bit of water, if possible, and give yourself a drink as well. Never let your dog guzzle water immediately before, during, or after jogging, though, as this can lead to stomach cramping. Wait at least half an hour after running before allowing him to drink at will.

6. After finishing a long run, always cool down. Make sure both you and your Ridgeback walk until your heart rate has returned to normal, and until your Ridgeback is no longer panting rapidly.

Tips & Warnings

• Take it slowly! Attempting to increase mileage too fast can cause injuries to both you and your Ridgeback.
• Always bring a couple of doggy bags. You might be surprised at how often your dog has to potty on a long run.
• Never run your Ridgeback on a full belly! Always wait to exercise your dog at least one hour after feeding, to decrease the chance of bloat.
• Always check your Ridgeback's paw pads before and after a run, to make sure they are intact.
• Always err on the side of caution. If you think your dog is over-heated, stop and rest. If he continues to appear ill, take him to your vet immediately.