Dog Trainer Colleen Demling Shares Ways To Get In Shape With Your Dog
STUDIO CITY (CBSLA.com) — Dog sports can open a whole new world of fun competition and exercise to enjoy with your pet!
Owner of Pawtopia Dog Training, Colleen Demling stopped by KCAL9 on Wednesday to share ways that you and your dog can stay in shape together.
Some of the tips Demling shared today were:
- Consult a veterinarian: most dogs need 30 to 60 minutes of exercise a day so make sure to ask before starting a regimen for your pet.
- Doggie paddle with your pooch: swimming is great for dogs with arthritis or may have trouble breathing through short noses. The cool water also overcomes heat exhaustion caused by exertion.
- Interval walking and jogging: take longer walks a day and if your dog is healthy enough, add a few sprints in between to boost their metabolism.
- Playing fetch: sit on the floor and come up for a crunch while pretending to throw the toy. Alternating between throwing and pretending gives your dog cardio and an abdominal workout for you.
- Obstacle course: set up hurdles, mazes and sprints for your dog to get great agility and circuit training. A jump rope, hula-hoop and kettle bells will benefit you.
- Puzzles: train your dog to think by teaching them to hunt or play hide and seek with toys or treats.
- Nutrition: it is imperative not to feed your dog human food as it can take years off their life. Consult your veterinarian about your dog's diet and what treats are the right option for them.
According to Demling, the average 13-year lifespan of your fury friend will cost you between $20,000 to $80,000, mostly invested in health and emergency care costs, which is why it's so important to keep your pets healthy and active.
Prior to opening Pawtopia, Demling trained service dogs for Canine Companions for several years and has been recently featured in various local media outlets and national magazines.
Pawtopia offers group classes and private training programs for owners and their dogs throughout San Diego county.
