How to Train Your Dog on a Treadmill

If there’s one thing people can agree on, it’s that we LOVE our dogs.

Keeping our dogs fit can be challenging, mostly now that staying indoors has become more critical than ever.

Dogs need exercise as much as we do, if not more.

Not being able to go outside doesn’t help that fact. But, as the saying goes, when there’s a will, there’s a way.

And believe us when we say, there’s a way. All you need is the will, and that way could be the treadmill.

This post will tell you how you can train your dog to walk on a treadmill. Reducing your exposure to the outside world and possibly saving your dog by having him live an active lifestyle indoors.

Keep Your Dogs In Shape Indoors

Dog walking has always been the go-to when we think about providing exercise for our dogs.

These days, staying inside has become somewhat of a requirement. The situation we’re in right now forces us to change how we live and give our dogs exercise.

Thankfully, treadmills aren’t strictly for human use. You can use them to help exercise your dog indoors! That’s right. You don’t even need to use a special one. Your dog can use most treadmills. It’s an absolute godsend!

Dogs lack the self-awareness we do to keep healthy. It’s not like a dog can look in the mirror and say, “Dang, I gotta work out,” and then proceed to go jogging.

As dog owners, we alone handle the health and well-being of our pets.

Fortunately, treadmill training for dogs isn’t as hard as you may think! With a bit of patience and a ton of treats, you could have your dog as comfortable on a treadmill.

Dog Treadmill Training Program

Like us, dogs aren’t comfortable with things they aren’t used to. It is the reason you should get your dog to familiarize himself with having the machine around.

If you’ve had a treadmill for a while and use it regularly, your dog must be already comfortable with its presence.

Start by sitting on the treadmill, treat in hand.

Let the dog know it’s nothing to be afraid of. When he approaches you while you’re on the treadmill, give him a treat.

Keep doing this until your dog doesn’t even think twice when you want him over. This technique can work for puppies as well.

Getting Your Dog On The Treadmill

Next comes the slightly more challenging part, getting him on it. If you have a cautious dog, more care is needed.

Do the same thing, but as he slowly approaches you, praise him like crazy. Positive reinforcement is vital in getting your dog to enjoy a treadmill.

Once he gets on the treadmill without hesitation, turn it on.

Sometimes, your dog may get nervous by the various beeps and boops coming from the treadmill. If that happens, hug and pet him. Make him feel safe while the treadmill is making noises.

Letting Your Dog Use The Treadmill

Finally, we can start teaching your dog to begin walking. This step may be the hardest, so be patient. Showing frustration may scare your dog, making this task even harder.

Before anything else, make sure you have a leash tied to the front of your treadmill.

It should be short enough that he will feel a pull if he’s going too slow. Not too short though, you want a bit of leeway to make him feel comfortable.

If they don’t want to move, hold a treat up in front of him. As he gets up to get the treat, turn on the treadmill. Let him walk for a bit, and give the treat.

Gradually increase speed day after day, and in no time, your dog will be using the treadmill like he was born to do it!

Training Your Dog

Once he’s completely familiar with the art of treadmill walking, you’ll need a proper training program to consistently give your dog the exercise he needs.

Puppy Treadmill Exercise Program:

• Two times a day
• Five minutes per run

Adult Dog Exercise Program:

• Once a day
• 20–30 minutes per run

Always ensure to keep a close eye on your dog when you train your dog to walk on a treadmill. You never know when he might want to take a rest!

Now you can keep your dog fit and healthy without ever leaving the house!

It’s more fun to work out with your dog. Join them by investing on a good treadmill by Fitness Expo.

More from Fitness Expo

7 Ultimate Exercises and Stretches For Lower Back Pain Relief
How to Lose Weight on a Treadmill: Simple Tips to Follow