Doesn't it feel like yesterday that your dog was a little tiny potato? And now look at them – over 10 months old already! The teenage energy (and angst) continues. Plus, your pup's bones are getting stronger, and those growth plates are starting to close up around now, depending on their breed and size.
This means they need proper nutrition to support their skeletal system, which includes those growth plates. We know it can be overwhelming to navigate all the different food options, but you're not alone! Our team of experts is here to help you choose the best diet for your pooch.
So, as always, take a deep breath, relax, and give your furry buddy lots of love. Remember, you've got this, and we've got your back!
This week's focus:
When you can start running with your dog... if you want to
The dreaded humping
All about growth plates
Preventing arthritis, and more
When Can You Start Running With Your Dog?
Before you and your pup dive into a full-on marathon, take a pit stop for some important tips. First, check with your vet to make sure your dog is old enough and fit enough for a run.
At ten months old, most dogs still aren't old enough to go for full-on runs. But this is a nice time to start slowly preparing them for eventual outings. Start with short and easy bouts of jogging during walks and watch for signs of fatigue or discomfort – if you see any, stop right away (more training tips in the training section below).
As you both build up endurance, increase the distance and intensity gradually. Avoid intense running with dogs under a year old, as their growing bodies aren't quite ready. Remember, slow and steady wins the race (or, at least, finishes it without any pulled muscles)!
Ah, the awkwardness of humping! Don't worry, you're not alone in dealing with this amusing (yet slightly embarrassing) behavior. When it comes to your 10-month-old pup going all "humpy-dumpty," the key is redirection.
As soon as you catch them in the act, calmly interrupt the behavior and immediately redirect their attention to something more appropriate, like a chew toy or a game of fetch. Remember, consistency is key, so keep redirecting and rewarding positive behaviors, and before you know it, your little Casanova will learn that humping is just not their style anymore.
Do take note of when humping is happening, as it could be a sign of stress or overstimulation, which you'll want to address separately.
Picture this: You're in full sprint mode, feeling like you'll break those Olympic records when, suddenly, your dog spots a squirrel and decides to pull a 180. Not exactly the smoothest move, huh?
By teaching your dog to slow down, stop, and change directions on cue (as well as ignore distractions), you'll not only avoid embarrassing flip-flop moments but also ensure a safer and more enjoyable running experience for both of you.
Trust us, nothing kills the running vibe faster than a tangled leash dance or your pooch taking you for an impromptu squirrel chase.
By working on loose leash walking first, you'll establish a solid foundation of connection with your dog, making those runs together a smooth and enjoyable adventure. Focusing on a casual heel position and staying on one side is super important for future running safety.
Arthritis affects both large and small breed dogs, and 25% of dogs older than one year have arthritis. And that increases to 50% once they’re between 5 and 10 years of age.
Slowing down the effects of arthritis should be considered as early as puppyhood. How can you be proactive?
1) Always keep your dog at their ideal body weight.
2) Avoid certain types of repetitive high-impact activities, like long-distance running, competitive agility, regularly chasing fetch toys, or jumping and leaping in the air to catch a ball or frisbee.
3) At 1 or 2 years of age, add omega fatty acids (fish oil) to their diet.
4) At 1 to 2 years of age, start your dog on joint supplements to manage inflammation and protect their cartilage.
These little steps will keep your dog stepping in comfort.
Feeding your dog a high-quality, well-balanced diet appropriate for their age and activity level is critical for them to live a happy and healthy life. Your veterinarian can help guide you about what diet will best suit your dog, but we have some tips in the article below.
If you love to run and want your dog to be a part of the fun when they're old enough, consider signing up for Canicross! This is cross-country running crossed with "sled pulling" – except there's no sled.
Your dog is connected directly to you via a special harness and leash, and their pulling helps you run faster. Take in the terrain and build community in this sport that's been growing since the early 2000's.
Running with your dog can be a great way for you both to bond, get exercise, and release some stress, but only if you do it safely.
Before going on any extended runs, be sure your dog has been properly conditioned and can handle the length of the run. Knowing the weather conditions before heading out for a run with your dog is important. You don't want to run when it is hot or too cold.
Be sure that your dog's nails are properly trimmed and that their paw pads are healthy-looking (no cuts, abrasions, etc.). Always warm up your dog before running, and be sure to take frequent water breaks.
Never try to push your dog beyond what they are capable of. Once you're finished, always allow your dog to cool down. When running with a dog, carrying a first-aid kit is essential since injuries (wounds, bites, torn nails, etc.) can happen. And remember: no food or excessive amounts of water for at least 1 hour before or after exercise.
Pet owners should always take steps to avoid these horrible conditions. Knowing the signs of heat exhaustion can help prevent your dog from suffering from a heatstroke, since they occur before the signs of heatstroke.
Generally, heat exhaustion is a milder form of heatstroke. The body temperature is not above 104°F, and your pet can still walk, is panting and looking for water sources, as well as taking frequent breaks.
In heatstroke, the body temperature goes above 104°F. You will see warning signs like panting excessively with no breaks in between, collapse, dark red gums, a glazed look in their eyes, and your pet may seem unresponsive to you. If you notice these signs, seek veterinary care immediately! Attempt cooling methods (cover your dog with tepid water and fan them) while in transit to medical care.
