A dog treadmill can be a great addition to your dog’s exercise regimen. You might wonder who would purchase a dog treadmill? Show ring dogs are often put on a dog treadmill to have their gaits analyzed. A dog treadmill can also be used for sporting dogs as well.
Almost any type of sporting event pet can benefit from a dog treadmill. Also, humans have a shorter stride than dogs, so having the proper length of treadmill is important, otherwise the dog will have an abnormally short gait.
At first your dog will likely not even want to stand on the treadmill, but after walking your dog over and around the treadmill a couple of times your dog should stand on the treadmill. A dog treadmill that is quality made costs about the same price as human treadmills. A dog needs a quality treadmill that will not feel shaky to the dog.
How to Train Your Dog to Run on a Dog Treadmill
In order to train a dog to use dog treadmills, you should follow these easy steps:
After your pet is used to the dog treadmill, you want it to feel comfortable standing on the treadmill as well. It is best to start by keeping the dog treadmill turned off. Lead your dog on top of the treadmill (use a leash if you like) and while it is standing on the treadmill be sure and reinforce it often by giving it both praise and treats (if you use a clicker, click only when the dog is standing comfortably on the treadmill – if it appears anxious, try to wait).
Once your dog is comfortably on the dog treadmill, it is time to turn it on for the first time. If you remain calm, your dog will remain calm.
Do not push your dog back onto the treadmill either. Instead, continue to reinforce your dog with praise and treats whenever it is doing anything positive on the treadmill.
Once your dog has been using the dog treadmill successfully you are ready to allow your dog to stay on the treadmill for a long period of time at any speed you want. Dog treadmills are a great way to keep your dog happy, healthy and fit.


