Keep this in mind when exercising with your dog

According to the Los Angeles Times, it’s all about knowing your dog’s limitations when you exercise with him or her.

Jackie Epping, a public health scientist in the Division of Nutrition, Physical Activity and Obesity at the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, says you should consider your dog’s fitness level and breed. Particular breeds need vigorous exercise over others and can keep up with owners better, but some can’t.

You may want to heed Epping’s advice the next time you want an exercise companion in the shape of four legs:

• Start slowly and work up to longer distances.


• Pay attention to warning signs from the dog: limping, lagging behind, or any sign of discomfort.


• Research the breed to see if they are typically fit for more invigorating exercise. In general, working class breeds make great exercise buddies.