Workout for the week

As a reminder, perform each exercise for 15-20 seconds, approximately 15-20 repetitions. All movements should be slow and measured, use a 3 count. Count to 3 on the “down” movement, and 3 on the “up” movement. While you are performing the exercises have your dog practicing their “sit” and “watch me’s.” Between each exercise walk at varying speed for 2 minutes. Try to increase the speed at which you are walking, and increase the number of faster paced walks. Hold your leash in your right hand, and treat with your left. The goal is to treat when your dog is walking beside you on a loose leash. Make use of obstacles such as benches, tables or trees to walk around, the variety of pace and direction will help keep your dog focused on you. When you make a right circle speed up your pace a little so your dog will learn to speed their pace to stay beside you, and with left circle slow your pace.

Be sure to bring water for both you and your dog. Take water breaks every 10-15 minutes. I find it easiest to set the dog’s water dish near a bench. I can then place my water bottle close, and we can both take a water break. You may want to print this article off and place it near the water so you can refresh your memory of the exercises.

This routine should take you approximately 35-40 minutes to complete.

Start with a 5 minute warm-up, walk at your normal pace for several minutes, then at a faster pace. Your dog should be on a loose leash, walking beside you.
 

Toe-in calf raises – Have you dog “sit” either in front or beside you. Have your treat ready and ask them to “watch me.” Point your toes in, and raise up onto the balls of your feet.

Toe-out calf raises – Have your dog “sit” in front of you. Have your treats ready and ask them to “watch me.” Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart, point your toes out, and lower yourself to a squat position. Raise onto the balls of your feet.

Wall squat - have your dog "sit" or "down" close to you.  This way you correct them if necessary.  Put you back against a sturdy wall and slide down until your in a position as if your sitting in a chair.  Hold this position as long as you can - as least for 20-30 seconds. 

Toe touch – Have your dog “sit” or “down” in front of you. Depending on your dogs reliability, you may want to be closer, or release the leash. You don’t want to get pulled over!! This is a surprisingly difficult exercise, but a great one for total leg strength.  Bending forward and keeping your back as straight as you can, reach down and touch near your toes. Complete 10 – 12 reps raising your right leg, complete your 2 minute walk, then complete 10 – 12 reps raising your left leg.

Repeat the entire workout 2 times.  After the second workout cool down for 3-5 minutes, stretch and you're done!!

Mary Manka

Push Ups n PawS, LLC