Workin The gsd On treadmill - Page 1

HI i would like to know how early can one start the puppy to trian on the tread mill and do people use this method at all.. I would like to know people comments specially from gsd breeders. I feels its a good workout as it has less chance of injury its controlled speeds and the dog really gets a good workout. Send in your comments thanks

The tread mill is used quite a bit I think. I havent done this yet and am pretty interested in the responses you get from this post. I would think that the tread mill would also be less impact and easier on the hips and elbows. I think people usually wait till 18 months to run a puppy, is this right? However, Im sure it would be great to socialize her to the treadmill as early as possible, maybe just a few minute walk every day or so.

I have seen dogs using treadmills before, but haven't tried it myself. I think it's a good idea, especially in bad weather and/or when you don't want to walk the dog outside at the time. The first two weeks can be a mental challenge, because the floor is moving and your dog's instinct tells it to run away, but after the first two weeks or so, she should be fine. Never leave her there too long without checking on her of course. You can probably start walking her on the treadmill and getting her used to it now, but no jogging/running until she's at least 18 months old. ~Lauren

I would think you would want the growth plates closed, which takes place normally between 14-18 months...check with your vet on that.

i use a tread mill my dogs love it,except 1 she will not go on it some one once told me every dog will do it,this is not true.she sticks her feet out all ways so she doesnt have to walk on it.

there is some interesting facts about GSD's on a treadmill check out this site www.martinsk9formula.com He has photos, essays and a world of knowledge when it comes to canine nutrition and fitness Steve

I would not use a treadmill for a puppy. I won't even do roadwork with a puppy till its 12-15 mos. old, for the same reason hips are not certified till then in Germany and they don't gait young dogs as far as they do adults in the ring: they're not done growing. I don't want to take a chance of injuring my young dogs. Much better to swim young dogs so there's no percusion on still-forming joints. I just wish I HAD a treadmill for my too-fat stud dog! SS

people who use a treadmill are most lazy and should leave the race, a GSD should be trained by the owner on a natural way,and that includes condition , show and workingtrainining a GSD is not a horse !