How to Walk a Dog on a Treadmill

A great way to walk a dog is to use a treadmill. Using a treadmill is a terrific way for your pet to get his exercise and to stay healthy. If it’s raining outside, no problem! You can simply walk your dog on the treadmill for daily exercise and fitness. Another great use for walking a dog on a treadmill is to get out some of that extra energy they’ve stored up during the day. Use this handy tutorial to walk a dog on a treadmill.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Trainable dog
• Treats for the dog walk
• Harness and leash
• Treadmill or dog treadmill

1. Walk your dog slowly around the room a few times to get him warmed up before placing him on the treadmill.

2. The first introductions to the treadmill, place the dog on the treadmill without turning it on. Give your dog a reward. Repeat this step until the dog will climb on and off the treadmill on command.

3. With the dog nearby, turn on the treadmill. Let the dog get used to the sound so he will not startle when it’s time to walk on the treadmill. Treats also work well for this stage of the training. Repeat until your dog is comfortable with the sound and movement of the belt of the treadmill.

4. Place your dog or have your dog step onto the treadmill. Slowly walk around the treadmill giving the command for stay. Don’t have your dog sit though! Do this several times in a row to get your dog used to staying on the treadmill. Again reward with treats and repeat until your dog is willing remain on the treadmill.

5. Once your pet is all set to for dog walking on the treadmill, it’s time to place a harness on him with a medium length lead. Have the dog stand on the treadmill and turn it on at the lowest speed. Be ready to lift the dog off of the treadmill should he become frightened. Reward with a treat.

6. Slowly increase the speed of the treadmill to a pace that is natural for your dog. Think about how fast you walk a dog on normal walks. Go just slightly under that pace.

7. Slowly decrease the speed of the treadmill for the dog walk.

8. Stop the treadmill and have your dog get off. Offer a treat again for his dog walk on a treadmill.

Tips & Warnings

• Slowly work with your dog to get used to walking on a treadmill.
• Reward your pet for dog walking on the treadmill.
• Never feed or give your pet food about one hour prior to dog walking on a treadmill.
• Allow your pet to relieve himself prior to his dog walk on treadmill to prevent accidents.

Resources

• How to Get Rid of Dog Urine Carpet Odors with Vinegar
• How to Build a Dog Concrete Floor

[sonni57]

on 4/15/2009 Great idea to walk a dog on a treadmill they need exercise too!