8 Fun and Essential Gadgets for Doggie Exercise!

 

When you're working out, you enjoy treating yourself to some new things now and then, right? Maybe some new running shoes or an updated workout outfit for your wardrobe. It feels good to do nice things for ourselves! So return the favor to your pooch – they love new things just as much as you do. Haven't you noticed the excitement in your dog's eyes when they first feast their eyes on a new chew toy? Its absolutely priceless.

 

1. A short leash or waist leash

Want to start bringing your dog on runs? Aramburu recommends using a four- to six-foot lightweight nylon or leather leash. “Retractable or long, flexi leashes are not ideal because they can easily get tangled around legs—the person's and the dog's,” she says. Once you've got it down, consider a hands-free leash that's worn around your waist.

Try: Stunt Runner ($38;amazon.com) or Runner's Choice Hands-Free Dog Leash ($33;amazon.com)

2. Treats!

“If your dog needs refueling during a long run or workout, consider taking along high-energy snacks,” says Nelson. Just be sure not to feed your dog a large meal during, or immediately before or after, intense exercise; running around on a full stomach can put dogs at risk of a dangerous condition called bloat.

Try: XTremFuel Booster Bars (xtremfuelusa.com for stores) or Zuke's Power Bone ($7,amazon.com)

3. Clean-up bags

Don't forget bags to clean up your dog's waste while you're out exercising. Buy biodegradable materials to reduce your impact on the environment, and get a dispenser that clips to your dog's leash to ensure you've always got one handy.

Try: BioBags ($27, amazon.com) or Earth Rated Green Dispenser ($4,amazon.com)

4. Sherpa pack

With the right pack, your dog can actually carry his own water and supplies—and some of your own—during runs or long hikes, says Nelson. Be sure to choose one that fits snugly but not too tightly, and don't exceed the product's recommended weight limit.

Try: 2015 K9 Dog Pack ($65,rei.com) or SingleTrack Pack ($90,amazon.com)

5. Paw wax

If your dog doesn't like booties—or you don't want to put them on every time you go outside in harsh conditions—try a wax. When massaged into your dogs' paws, these products provide a barrier against ice, sand, salt, and hot pavement.

Try: Musher's Secret ($18,amazon.com) or Four Paws Paw Guard ($8, amazon.com)

6. Cooling vest

Dogs can overheat quickly in warm weather, especially in the middle of the day when the sun is overhead. Try to exercise in the morning or the evening, but if you do have to be out in the heat with your dog, consider getting her a cooling vest that reflects the sun and uses evaporation to help regulate temperature.

Try: SwampCooler ($60,amazon.com) or Cool Vest ($37,amazon.com)

7. Collapsible water dish

Just as you should sip water throughout your workout, so should your dog. “I've found that a lightweight, travel dog bowl is the easiest thing to run with,” says Aramburu. “You can fill it up with your water bottle or, if you prefer not to carry one, a water fountain.”

Try: Nomad Travel Bowl ($21;amazon.com) or Kurgo Collaps A Bowl ($9; amazon.com)

8. Martingale collar

Aramburu also suggests putting your dog in a martingale collar for running, exercising, or training. This type of collar is designed to sit loosely around a dog's neck, but to tighten when the dog tries to pull on the leash. It gives you more control over your pooch without choking him like a slip collar. “Never use a prong collar or choke chain during exercise,” she warns.


Original Image Source: Theilr

Try: Coastal Pet No-Slip Dog Collar ($7; amazon.com) or TopPaw Martingale Collar ($9.99;petsmart.com)

 

We see so many people running with their dogs, and their pup is wearing a choke-chain. Not only is the metal heavy to have around their neck, but they're actually quite painful when used. If you have a larger breed dog and are concerned about controlling them in crowded places or around other dogs and pets, perhaps consider a doggie training course. Your dog is never too old to learn how to behave while under your command. Try it out! Your dog (and their neck) will thank you.

So many great gadgets listed above from the team at Health.com! We love the Cooling Vest and the Sherpa Pack. Great for dog owners who live in warmer climates. With these items you can keep your dog hydrated and cool!

 



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