It's important to stay informed about the best doggy exercise practices. Read on to figure out how you can both stay active without being in pain.

Can running actually cause a dog’s arthritis?
I’m sure there’s some web site out there that will say yes, but I don’t believe it.

Slow, steady running is healthy for people and dogs (within reason).

No vet has ever criticized me for running with my dog. They encourage it as a healthy activity for dogs and their owners.

Running didn’t hurt my dog, but playing FETCH did.
Even though Ace and I ran on pavement or concrete most of the time, our running was slow and steady. My dog only had to “trot” to keep up.

When my dog played fetch, it was HARD, obsessive, maniac-crazy fetch! He’d stop dead in his tracks off of a sprint to get the ball. He’d brace hard onto his knees, often twisting his limbs and core.

And because my dog had no off switch, he wouldn’t stop unless I did. Then he’d collapse to the earth, often heaving with exhaustion.

Of course, I quickly learned to limit our fetch sessions to 5 minutes, but even in 5 minutes you can play a lot of fetch.
These days, Ace is mostly retired from fetch.

All I’m saying is be careful with your young dog’s joints.

Dog sports are very popular – disc dog, agility, flyball. I love all these sports and find working with my dog so rewarding.

But, if you choose to play fetch, don’t drive your dog into the ground like I did.

Do a warmup before hard impacts. Learn how to do some stretching. Keep fetch or other intense games to short sessions. Stop before that tongue is long.

With this helpful information, you'll rest easy knowing that you aren't harming your dog when you exercise. You two will keep your fit figures and still have fun without hurting your pup's joints. So grab that leash and put on your running shoes, it's time to exercise!

Learn more safe exercise practices for your pooch by checking out That Mutt.