Weight training

ZinjaZinja
edited June 2009 in General
Sorry I haven't posted in a long time. I've been REALLY busy this summer. Well, I just purchased the Ruffwear Web Harness for Sasuke and it looks amazing!

I am about to make the harness have an interchangeable top, sort of like the Palisades pack. One will have a hiking part, one for durations/easy walking (put a camelback water cooler), and one for aggressive training. All of these parts can be attached to the web harness with buckles.

I was wondering if anyone has done any weight training with their dogs? I have a vest that I attach weights to and it conditions my body more than jogging or climbing without it. I would like to create a top part for the harness that allows me to put weights on it. I understand that dogs do have their limits and do not want to give more than about 20% of their body weight, but is this a safe way to condition a dog if done slowly? Sasuke is already built like a tank at 30lbs.

Any input would be great. Thanks!

Comments

  • WrylyBrindleWrylyBrindle
    edited June 2009
    I fill Sage's pack with hockey pucks. they are nice and flat and round and weigh 8oz each.
    and if a game of shinny were to break out on the way, we've got pucks!

    we dont do serious conditioning, just somethign to carry
  • obukobuk
    edited November -1
    No weight training here just some weight that we put in his backpack to add to his exercise during walks. (Right now, it's too hot for the backpack)
  • CrimsonO2CrimsonO2
    edited November -1
    Why not put a couple of water bottles in the pack? That way it's heavy at the beginning, and should lighten up as the walks get longer and the dog gets more tired. Water for you and dog = win/win.

    Jesse
  • obukobuk
    edited November -1
    I agree with Jesse. I absolutely recommend water bottles. One for us, one for the dog. Perfect ;o)
  • StaticNfuzzStaticNfuzz
    edited June 2009
    I would make sure to do a clearance on hips and elbows etc on your dog by checking with your vet or canine physical therapist first. When you say "aggressive training" I am not clear what you are looking to do. Heavy workouts are not recommended for younger dogs and short building sessions are better for older animals.

    For any canine athlete it is important to begin slowly and also taking a good look at the particular dog's structure with a professional first to make sure weight is evenly distributed on all fours. Before carrying any weight there need to be a build of up core muscle tone across the back. You do not want to put a strain on cruciate ligaments and discs on longer backs if the dog is not conditioned properly. The front and chest have to be worked differently for building there. For spitzies such as Shibas, chows and the like, they are a bit straighter in the stifles so the lack of angulation leaves them a bit more vulnerable to the wear and tear if you plan on jogging or extended duration workouts in terms of running etc. Build slowly and be careful about pounding the pavement if you plan to work endurance

    Take a look into the Information by Christine Zink DVM about conditioning and strength building for canine fitness.

    Snf
  • SangmortSangmort
    edited November -1
    Joe - I don't remember how old Sasuke is, but make sure you give him some time to finish growing before you start adding weights ;) ~
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