Jogging with puppy

[NIKKI ~Macy's Mom~]

Do you think it is OK to jog 1-1/2 miles with my 4 month old doodle? She is 15 lbs. One vet told me yes and another one said not till 1 year of age after their bones are done growing. I'm confused.

[Yvonne, Riley, Murphy and Luca]

I am not sure about jogging but I started walking that far when Riley was 10 weeks old. He is 15 weeks now and we walk just over 3 miles a day at one time.

[NIKKI ~Macy's Mom~]

Maybe I should just walk her and not jog with her.

[Adina P]

NO--jogging except for short bursts in a yard or while playing is considered a bad idea because puppies may get joint damage from such repetitive stress on growing bones/joints. Repetitive jogging/running should not occur before 18 months when growth is done.

[NIKKI ~Macy's Mom~]

I appreciate your input.

[Lia]

Would a long walk be ok for a puppy since it's repetitive stress on the joints?

[Sandy]

I have heard the same thing - NO jogging until the dog is 18 months old. It's too hard on the developing joints.

[NIKKI ~Macy's Mom~]

Thanks.

[Joanne ~ Spud*]

This question brings up another question. My dog likes to JUMP. Constantly. I have heard that jumping also should wait until the bones are done growing. Anyone have any input jumping?

[Holly Southall]

I feel for you. I would really like to jog with Angel too. I have heard the same thing about waiting for a year. It would be so much easier to knock out my exercise and hers at the same time.
We went hiking this weekend and she dragged us up the mountain. Maybe that was too much, but we stopped frequently and had breaks. I have three children and the dog and kids could have gone up the mountain faster than my husband and myself. Sometimes I think she has enough energy for a jog, but I will wait.

[NIKKI ~Macy's Mom~]

Thats what my vet told me. He said it was OK to jog with her and I would wear out before her. But, when I called another vet he said, not till she is one year. UGG

[Kim Williams]

Hi Nikki,
My vet and obedience trainer said 12-18 months, or until the growth plates close for repetitive or forced exercise. I really wanted to exercise with Parris and she told me to read articles by Chris Zink at www.caninesports.com
My obedience teacher said for me to observe normal puppy play(bursts of energy and then rest). That is what is best for beginning exercise. I was really disappointed when I heard this too. Parris is almost 2 now and I enjoy agility and long walks so much.

[Kim Williams]

Hi Nikki,
I forgot to tell you the article on the website is called canine fitness and you can find it under the articles section.