Best Exercises for Overweight Dogs: Treadmills and More

Is your dog overweight? If you're struggling to keep your pet fit—and you're not alone—a dog treadmill could be the answer. These exercise machines are a great way to support your pup's healthy weight loss and fitness. 

At a recent veterinary appointment, my vet told me my dog was the first dog they'd seen that day who wasn't overweight. And it was three o'clock in the afternoon! You can imagine my surprise. 

Obesity in dogs is a real problem today. Walking around your neighborhood, you may notice dogs of all shapes and sizes. Some look healthy, but some dogs look overweight and unwell. What about your dog? Is she overweight? Do you know for sure? An overweight dog is prone to joint problems, disease, and a shorter life. Of course, a good diet is essential to keep your dog at the proper weight, but exercise is key. A dog treadmill could be the answer for dog obesity prevention. Want to know more? Keep reading.

If you want to learn how a dog treadmill could help your dog, we've included expert tips, exercise routines, and safety measures to help you keep your pet healthy. 

The best way to tell if your dog is overweight is by weighing them on the scale at your veterinarian's office. Their scales are more accurate than the ones you have at home. Your vet will tell you if your pup is the right weight for their breed and age. Every dog breed is different when it comes to a healthy weight. Some dog breeds, by nature, show their ribs. Your vet may also show you a chart that compares your dog's weight in a ranking system. The scores are on a sliding scale, with one meaning your dog is underweight, and a nine means your dog is overweight.

It's no secret that obesity can result in a variety of health problems. A chubby pet may look cute, but carrying too much weight can cause your pet,

• Joint pain

• Arthritis

• Heart problems

• Liver issues

• Kidney problems

• Certain types of cancers

• High blood pressure

• Diabetes

• Mobility problems

• Breathing problems

Dog obesity can affect your dog's life and make them less happy than they should be.

One way to keep your pet at a healthy weight is to create regular exercises to maintain their weight. Burning calories through a dog exercise schedule works well. There is no limit to the types of exercise you choose for your pup. The main thing is to be consistent and make it fun for them. Dogs enjoy exercise such as

• Walking

• Jogging

• Agility training

• Playing frisbee

• Retrieving a ball

An indoor dog treadmill guarantees your dog gets the proper exercise, no matter the weather or how busy your schedule is each day. Your dog will enjoy its daily canine fitness routine on the treadmill, lose weight, and feel happier. 

Of course, it's important to create an exercise routine that's right for your dog. You want to take into account your dog's

• Breed

• Age

• Weight

• Health issues

Talk to a dog trainer or vet about what's best for your pup. 

Here are several essential things to remember if you use a dog treadmill to keep your pup in shape.

• Controlled Environment : You decide the workouts' speed, incline, and duration for your dog's needs. Be sure to talk to your vet or a dog trainer for suggestions.

• Gradual Progression : Always start slowly and gradually increase the intensity of your pup's workout. Staring out too intense could cause injuries or scare your dog.

• Year-Round Exercise : A dog treadmill allows your dog to exercise daily, no matter what the weather is like outside. Weather won't interfere with your dog's exercise frequency and schedule.

Convenient and Time-Saving : You'll have peace of mind knowing your dog will get some exercise without ever leaving home.

Once you purchase a dog treadmill for your pet, it's important to have a dog treadmill motivation and workout plan. It's helpful to follow these suggestions.

• Starting Slow : Always start slow using slow speed, then build up to a higher speed to prevent your dog from getting hurt or scared.

• Incremental Increases : As your dog gets accustomed to the treadmill, increase the speed and the amount of time it walks on it daily to help it burn calories and increase its stamina.

• Interval Training : To build your dog's endurance, alternate the treadmill's speed from walking to a slow jog. Doing this can help them adjust as well as make the exercise more interesting.

Monitoring dog weight Progress : Keep track of your dog's weight loss and adjust their routine if needed. Stay consistent and reward your dog with a game afterward to motivate them.

Never use a human treadmill for your dog because they don't have the proper safety measures you want for your pup. Instead, choose a treadmill specially made for dogs with the proper equipment to keep them safe. Be sure the treadmill has

• Proper Harness and Leash: This should keep your dog centered so they can't fall. 

• Non-Slip Surface : Choose a treadmill with a textured belt so your dog won't slip or fall

• Correct-size treadmill: Choose a dog treadmill that fits your dog's breed. If you have a large dog, choose one big enough for your pup to walk comfortably. 

Besides buying the proper dog treadmill sessions, be sure you include

• Short, Frequent Breaks : Remember to give your dog water breaks; let them rest if they look tired or stressed out. Never push your dog to stay on the treadmill. It may cause them to refuse to get on it later.

• Positive Reinforcement : Always reward your pup with praise or a healthy treat for dog treadmill motivation at its best. Healthy snacks could include baby carrots, sliced apples, or blueberries. If they like the associated treats, your dog will look forward to the treadmill exercises. 

Balanced Nutrition : It's always wise to combine your dog's workouts with a veterinarian-approved healthy diet for weight loss and increased muscle growth. Talk to your vet for suggestions.

• Outdoor Fun : Besides your pup's treadmill runs, include outside walks, trips to the dog park, or a game of catch the frisbee.

• Mental Stimulation : Dogs need to keep their brains busy. You can give your pup puzzle feeders, toys, or agility training for brain stimulation and fun.

• Regular Vet Check-Ins : Remember to include your veterinarian in your plans for the dog treadmill weight loss goals and healthy habits. They might have suggestions for improving your plans.