The Pros And Cons Of Motorized Treadmills For Dogs
They are used by veterinarians, show dog handlers and "dog whisperer" Caesar Milan. Proponents say that motorized treadmills for dogs are the best things for them since bones. With the human population exploding and becoming less and less dog-friendly, it is thought that motorized treadmills might soon be the only option a dog can have for regular exercise.
Advantages
There are many advantages to having motorized treadmills for your dogs. You can exercise them in all weathers and avoid any anti-dog neighbors. If your dog is large enough, then he can use a treadmill built for people. If your dog is small enough, then he can use one of the many lightweight, portable motorized treadmills for dogs that are currently being made.
As obesity becomes more and more of a problem for people all around the world with access to high-calorie processed foods and large quantities of fatty meat, obesity has also proven to be more and more of a problem with our pets. Although pets love to eat, (and fat pets are considered cute), even a few extra pounds can seriously raise the risks of the pet contracting arthritis, diabetes and heart problems.
Dogs also get very hyper and uncontrollable if they are full of pent-up energy and are stuck in the house all day. Walking a dog under these conditions can be potentially dangerous. For these dogs, a motorized treadmill helps take the edge off, calms them down and keeps them healthy.
Disadvantages
It isn't just the motion of walking that makes going for a walk so exciting for a dog. They need to check out the territory, to figure out what creatures have been passing through and if they are dangerous. By sniffing new scents, hearing new sounds and seeing new sights, all of dog's brain is engaged. This uses up more energy than just trotting on a motorized treadmill.
Another disadvantage is that the owner misses out on a major bonding time with the dog - as well as important exercise that the owner usually needs more than the dog does. One of the reasons many clinically depressed people have dogs is that a daily walk forces them to go out of the house and meet others. Without this walk, with your best friend helping you along, a clinically depressed person may soon become too scared to leave the comfort and security of their homes.
In conclusion, a motorized treadmill for your dog is only a temporary solution. You still need to take your dog for walks in order to have a happy, healthy dog.
