Learn about Breitensport Jogging Cycling Agility Canicross / CaniX Flyball with hovawarts.
Jogging with Hovawarts
Hovawarts need more exercise than a walk alone can provide.
Many dogs especially working breeds like the Hovawart need to be active and require more exercise than a "lead walk" can provide. Some Hovawart owners take their dogs jogging with them, which has great exercise potential when done thoughtfully. Do not attempt any serious jogging with a Hovawart until they are at least a year and a half old. Too much exercise is bad for their young bones and joints.
Before you start running with your hovawart, take him to the vet for a complete checkup. Any dog can appear healthy but may have a physical problem, such as elbow or hip dysplasia, that could be exacerbated with strenuous exercise. If you have a younger or older Hovawart, make sure jogging will not harm him.
Refresh your dog's obedience training and make sure he can walk and jog at your side. Don't let him run ahead, pulling on the lead. This can give the hovawart sore neck and shoulder muscles additionaly if he pulls on the lead while you run, you may also end up with strained muscles and have little control over your Hovawart. Ensure he will run calmly by your side in a "heel" position, with his neck and shoulders near your left leg.
Start jogging gradually, too much exercise too soon will result in sore muscles. to begin with, you should consider alternating walking and jogging. Jog for a few minutes, walk a few minutes and then jog, and so on. Keep the pace and distances short until you and your dog are comfortable with both; only then gradually increase the distance.
Try to avoid causing injuries and jog on softer surfaces. Concrete and tarmac are hard and unforgiving, the repeated jarring can damage bones and joints and be careful about hot tarmac heated under the summer sun which can burn his feet. Paws can get cut, scraped, and bruised. Although minor injuries often heal on their own, keep the pads clean and dry and stop the exercise until they heal. If walking is painful or the pads are visibly cut or burned, make an appointment with your vet. Grass or sand is better for both of you, but harder to run on, and watch out for ruts or holes.
Observe your dog for signs of stiffness, soreness and limping. If he starts to limp soon after starting to exercise, you have done too much too soon. A massage may help relieve some of the stiffness. If you are doubtful about how to do the massage, practice on your leg. How does it feel? Does the massage simply move the skin, or are you actually massaging the muscle? Sit on the floor, and have him lie between your legs. Begin with an easy, gentle massage. Once your pet has relaxed, massage a little harder so you can work on the muscles. If your dog seems to be in pain and massages don't relieve it, call your vet.
Read about Canicross or CaniX a social dog sport for the active hovawart and owner
