Introduction
Dogs have become one of the most popular pets in American households. According to the American Veterinary Medical Association, 48 million households in the United States owned dogs as pets in 2018. This number increased to 49.35 million households owning dogs in 2022.[1] That’s over 36% of all U.S. households with dogs as pets. The pet industry as a whole is also booming, with Americans spending $103.6 billion on their pets in 2020 alone.[2]
Benefits of Exercise for Dogs
Regular exercise provides many health benefits for dogs. Walking, running, and playing each day can improve your dog’s cardiovascular health, help control weight, and maintain joint health.
Cardiovascular health is important for dogs, just as in humans. Exercise gets the heart pumping and improves circulation, which brings oxygen and nutrients to organs and tissues throughout the body. Regular aerobic exercise can lower resting heart rate and blood pressure in dogs, reducing strain on the heart. It helps stamina and endurance as well. According to Texas A&M University, moderately intense exercise 3-5 days per week for 30-60 minutes optimizes cardiovascular benefits in dogs 1.
Exercise is key for weight control in dogs. Movement burns calories and balancing energy intake with expenditure prevents excess weight gain that strains joints and internal organs. According to Jet Pet Resort, regular exercise also builds lean muscle mass which further increases metabolism and calories burned at rest 2.
Weight control through exercise takes pressure off joints and improves mobility in dogs prone to arthritis. The motion also strengthens muscles supporting the joints and lubricates cartilage for flexibility. Low impact aerobic exercise like walking and swimming is ideal. Better Health Victoria notes that elderly dogs may tolerate short, frequent walks better than longer periods of exercise 3.
Risks of Sedentary Lifestyle in Dogs
Dogs that do not get enough physical activity and mental stimulation are at risk for several health and behavior problems. A sedentary lifestyle can lead to obesity, arthritis, anxiety, aggression, and other issues in dogs.
Obesity is one of the most common consequences of inadequate exercise in dogs. When dogs do not burn enough calories through activity, excess calories get stored as fat. Obesity puts strain on the joints and internal organs, and can lead to diabetes, heart disease, and other chronic illnesses. According to the ASPCA, an estimated 53% of dogs in the U.S. are overweight or obese.
Lack of exercise can also contribute to arthritis and joint problems, especially in older dogs. Walking, running, and playing help lubricate and strengthen the joints. Sedentary dogs lose muscle mass and flexibility, which causes stiffness and pain. Regular, moderate exercise can help manage arthritis symptoms in dogs.
Inadequate mental and physical activity can also lead to anxiety, aggression, destructive behaviors, and other issues. Dogs need activity and stimulation for healthy brain development. Puppies that do not get enough socialization and training are more likely to develop behavior problems as adult dogs. Providing regular exercise and playtime can help prevent and manage these issues.
Ultimately, a lack of exercise impacts a dog’s physical health, mental health, and quality of life. Dog owners should ensure their pets get at least 30-60 minutes of activity per day through walks, play, and enrichment activities.
Using Human Treadmills for Dogs
While many people consider using their existing home treadmills for their dogs, human treadmills are not designed for canine use and require several adjustments to be safe options.
Human treadmills typically have a longer deck and faster speeds than what would be appropriate for most dogs. The standard human treadmill deck length is around 55-60 inches, while an appropriate size for most dogs would be 30-40 inches. It’s important to ensure the dog has plenty of room and is not at risk of slipping off the back of the treadmill while walking or running.
Additionally, human treadmills are capable of speeds up to 12 mph, while a safe speed for dogs would typically max out around 5-8 mph depending on the breed. Setting an appropriate speed is critical – one that challenges the dog but does not risk injury.
Other safety considerations for dogs on human treadmills include traction and stability. The smooth belt surface of most treadmills can be slippery for dog paws. Using a non-slip mat or applying non-slip sprays or tape can help dogs maintain traction. For smaller dogs, side rails may need to be attached to prevent falls.
With the proper adjustments and supervision, human treadmills can provide dogs an effective form of indoor exercise. However, dog-specific treadmills designed for canine ergonomics and safety are recommended whenever possible.
Treadmill Features for Dog Use
When selecting a treadmill for dog use, there are some key features to consider:
Size
Make sure to choose a treadmill that is appropriately sized for your dog. Larger treadmills around 50 inches long are best for big dogs. Smaller treadmills around 30-40 inches work for small to medium dogs. Measure your dog and read size guidelines to select the right fit [1].
Speed Control
Look for speed controls that allow you to adjust the pace as needed for your dog. For maximum flexibility, choose a treadmill with variable speed settings from 0.5 mph up to around 7 mph [2]. Start slow and work up to faster comfortable speeds.
Materials
Durable materials like steel or aluminum frames, thick deck boards, stable side rails, and non-slip tread belts are ideal for dog treadmills. Avoid flimsy materials. Prioritize stability and traction to keep your dog safe [3].
Selecting a treadmill designed specifically for dogs with the right size, speed controls, and durable construction ensures your dog can exercise safely and comfortably.
Training a Dog to Use a Treadmill
Getting your dog comfortable and rewarded on the treadmill is important when beginning training. Start by letting them explore the treadmill while it’s off and giving treats for stepping on it. Reward calm behavior and don’t force them onto the treadmill. Once they are comfortable stepping on the treadmill, turn it on at the lowest speed. Continue rewarding with treats for standing calmly on the moving belt. If they become anxious, stop the treadmill and work up to it more slowly. Increase the speed gradually over multiple training sessions until they can walk and jog comfortably. Always keep training sessions short and positive in the beginning. Proper training will ensure your dog can exercise safely on the treadmill.
As recommended by the AKC, start by treating your dog for simply getting up on the treadmill and reward calm behavior with treats on the stationary belt. Slowly increase the speed while continuing to reward them. Training may take patience, but the reward is a dog able to exercise indoors. According to WagWalking, encouraging your dog forward on the belt and rewarding is key to getting them comfortable at low speeds. Building up duration and speed gradually based on their comfort level allows dogs to start enjoying treadmill exercise.
Treadmill Workout Guidelines for Dogs
When starting a dog on a treadmill routine, it’s important to follow safe guidelines for duration, intensity, and frequency of workouts. Here are some general recommendations:
Duration: Start with just 5-10 minutes per session and gradually build up to 20 minutes max over several weeks. Don’t overdo it too soon or make sessions too long for your dog’s fitness level.
Intensity: Use a low to moderate pace at first, equivalent to a brisk walk or light jog. Monitor your dog’s breathing and energy level. Faster running paces should only be attempted after building a base with walking.
Frequency: Begin with short sessions every other day, then progress to daily workouts if your dog tolerates them well. Take rest days to allow recovery time. Mild to moderate exercise 5-6 days per week is ideal for most dogs.
Other tips for safe treadmill workouts include having the owner walk next to the treadmill at first for assurance, keeping sessions positive with rewards, adjusting speed and incline appropriately, and watching closely for signs of fatigue or discomfort. Following evidence-based guidelines will allow dogs to gain fitness benefits from treadmill training while preventing injury.
Sources:
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/health/use-your-treadmill-to-exercise-your-dog/
Safety Tips for Dog Treadmill Use
When using a human treadmill for your dog, it’s important to take proper safety precautions. Here are some key tips:
Supervise your dog at all times when they are on the treadmill. Do not leave them unattended, even for a moment. Accidents can happen quickly if a dog’s paw gets caught in the belt.
Use a proper dog harness designed for treadmill use, not a regular leash or collar. A good dog treadmill harness securely attaches across the chest and under the belly for stability. This will prevent choking or neck strain if your dog attempts to jump off the moving treadmill.
Keep the emergency stop cord securely clipped to the dog’s harness and within quick reach. If your dog panics or stumbles, you can immediately hit the stop button to avoid injury.
Set the treadmill speed in slow increments and condition your dog to get used to the sensation of walking on a moving belt. Start at a slow jogging pace for short sessions until your dog is comfortable at faster speeds.
Never leave your dog unsupervised on a moving treadmill. Accidents can happen in an instant. Always keep a watchful eye and be prepared to stop the machine right away if needed. Following basic safety tips will help make treadmill training a positive experience for your dog.
Sources:
Considerations for Different Dog Breeds
When using a human treadmill for dogs, it’s important to take into account your dog’s specific size, age, and health to ensure their safety and comfort. Larger breeds with longer backs like German Shepherds should use treadmills with caution and only at low speeds to avoid back injuries. Small dogs with shorter legs may struggle with keeping pace on a standard treadmill designed for humans. Elderly dogs or dogs with mobility issues or injuries should have limitations placed on treadmill use.
For very small dog breeds under 15 lbs, look for appropriately sized dog treadmills to accommodate their stride and build. Standard treadmills move too fast for toy breeds. For medium or large dogs between 15-100 lbs, you can use a standard treadmill designed for humans at lower speeds. The bigger platform provides more space for their stride. Giant breeds over 100 lbs put a lot of impact on joints, so consult your vet before treadmill use. Adjust inclines and speeds according to your individual dog’s size, fitness and comfort level when using a human treadmill.
Conclusion
Converting a human treadmill into a dog treadmill can provide many benefits for your canine companion. Regular exercise on a treadmill can help keep your dog physically fit, mentally stimulated, and at a healthy weight. Treadmill running allows dogs to get vigorous activity indoors, which is especially useful if you live in an urban area without access to safe outdoor spaces.
When converting a human treadmill, key factors to consider include size, speed settings, material, and safety features. The treadmill deck should be large enough for your dog to run comfortably without slipping or falling off. Look for adjustable speed settings suitable for walking and running. Avoid metal or slick surfaces that could hurt your dog’s paws. Install side rails or a front guard if needed to prevent injuries.
With the proper treadmill model and training, most dogs can learn to walk, jog, or run on a treadmill. Start slowly with positive reinforcement and short sessions. Closely supervise your dog at first. Once conditioned to treadmill exercise, your dog can enjoy regular workouts that provide physical and mental enrichment.
Converting a human treadmill for dog use promotes your pet’s health and wellbeing. Just be sure to get the right equipment and follow safety precautions. With some preparation and training, a treadmill can be a fun and beneficial way to exercise your dog indoors.
