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CONDITIONING AND FITNESS DOGTRAININGESSEX-SUFFOLK.CO.UK
Why is Canine Conditioning important? Conditioning for Dogs is for all ages, body types and abilities. It’s often considered a way to help dogs after an injury, but conditioning is also great to give dogs a strong and healthy structure to help prevent injury and keep them mobile for longer. It focuses on moving the body to help strengthen muscles, ligaments, tendons etc., which all come together to support the joints, and supported joints are less prone to issues.
We can start at home, building up your dog’s muscle strength, coordination, balance, and general body awareness - and we don’t need any special equipment either, just things already found around the house. Conditioning dogs can come in the form of workshops, 1-2-1 sessions as well as online masterclasses, so it’s now easier than ever to support our dogs for their futures. It’s always important to warm our dogs up before starting exercise or activity.
Conditioning helps to prepare dogs for more activities in the warmer months. Going from one or two road walks a day to a longer hike on varied terrain can be a lot for a dog and can cause injury, strains, or muscle fatigue. If your dog is involved in a sport there may be more training, competitions, and activities available.
Slow twists and spins, guiding your dog into a stand from a sitting position. Moving a treat from the end of their nose in a nice slow circle so your dog can follow it and move in a circle. Do some one way then some the other way but remember to ensure the floor isn’t slippery, and that your dog isn’t doing this on their back legs while bouncing as this isn’t appropriate for a warm-up. This one requires no props so it can be used at home and at the start of walks.
How can we include Conditioning into our Dogs’ lives?
Stepping over Rolled Towels: 2-5 hand towels or small blankets will work
