n a message dated 1/6/2003 11:06:55 AM Eastern Standard Time, [EMAIL PROTECTED] writes:
> I feel > that he needs the chance to run more than he can in our small yard and soon > he won't be able to go to the dog parks. I know with horses most muscle > building is done at a trot but what about dogs? I am hesitant to let him > run unleashed in an unfenced area but I have one place that we have been > able to use that has been, so far, without dogs. You are exactly right! He definitely needs to exercise, as all dogs do, especially large dogs. So many American Berners (and other breeds) are sadly out of shape....flabby and/or fat. Most breed standards call for a dog "in good working condition" but how many dogs actually are? At only 9 months old, you probably dont want to do too much strictly regimented exercise program like running beside a bicycle or on a doggie treadmill. His bones and joints are still young. No "forced exercise." But free running on his own is a wonderful way to develop muscle and stamina, as well as burn off some of his adolescant energy. And of course have a great time. I would encourage you to find areas where he can run like a maniac to his heart's content then come home and fall into a blissful sleep....as they say "a tired dog is a good dog." Some places that are often good to let him do the running he his mind, body and soul crave: -- fenced football fields or soccer fields (like behind schools) -- many churches have large expanses of green that are usually empty -- parks -- wilderness areas Since many of the large areas are not fenced, you will want to work on teaching him a VERY reliable recall. While you are out walking him (in a fenced area at first) teach him a "special" recall word you ONLY use when he MUST come and you can be sure he will. Dont use "come on, get over here, I said come here!" It should be "Fido, COME" (or HERE or COOKIE or whatever your word is)....then have a REALLY tasty treat for him. Teach this in your house, yard, smaller areas like that at first. Then when you take him to a big place, attach to his collar a 50 foot length of light clothesline (you can buy 5/8" nylon in long lengths very cheap at any hardware store or Home Depo.) As he runs "free" just stay close to the end of the rope dragging on the ground. From time to time call him w/ your special word "Fido HERE!" and show him you have a cookie. Do this at first when he is close by you. Then let him go again, so he doesnt think coming back means getting in the car and going home, an end to his fun. Have him sit, take his collar gently, then let him have the food.....let him eat the treat only after you have your hand on his collar. Then let him go play again. Do this many times, from gradually increasing distances, during his walk. Stay close to the rope dragging the ground, so you could always just step on it if he doesnt IMMEDIATELY turn and come on your first command. Do not repeat the command over and over. Even if you had to reel him in like a fish, as soon as he starts to come you must enthusiastically praise him for doing the right thing (coming), and definitely praise very happily when he gets to you. Coming to you is ALWAYS a good thing, no matter what he did before that. For a dog w/ a reliable recall, there are so many more safe places he can run and play and love life!! Vilma Briggs (Kistner) Mt. Gilead, OH U-UD Mocha Java Slurp, UDX, HIC, TT Ch. Brighteye Expresso Bean, UD, NDD, TT U-CDX Our Little Buddy, UD, NA, TT Thirdtym's A Charm, CGC and Ted
