No intense exercise for puppies

Puppies need exercise but are not yet ready for athletic performance. Their joints, muscles, tendons, and ligaments are still developing. Movement is important, but overloading or unusual movements can be harmful. Most dog sports require the dog to be at least six months old, often even a year. Basic obedience training is also needed, e.g., puppy classes. Some dog sports also require a “traffic-safe dog” certificate.

Build-up, activity, and recovery

Dogs need to build stamina and muscle strength to perform sports, just like humans. Training schedules should alternate between exercise and rest, allowing recovery and adaptation. Too much training without rest causes overtraining, while too little training leads to stagnation. Finding the right balance is key.

Breed and suitability

Not every sport suits every dog. Sled dogs like Huskies or Malamutes are ideal for pulling, while Teckels or Chihuahuas are not. Hunting dogs should only be used if properly trained. Working dogs and shepherds are well-suited for agility, while very large dogs may struggle with quick turns or jumps. Greyhounds love to sprint. Always consider breed and body type before choosing a sport.

Nutrition and supplements

Sports use energy and stress muscles and joints. Active dogs need a balanced diet rich in vitamins, minerals, and healthy fats. Magnesium chelate with vitamin B supports muscles and nerves. Omega-3 fatty acids (EPA and DHA), from wild salmon oil or algae supplements, keep dogs supple, shiny, and alert. Silicon is crucial for building tendons, ligaments, cartilage, and bones, working from the inside out. It should be given consistently for at least three months, especially for growing or active dogs.

Joint wear, osteoarthritis, and arthritis

With age, joint wear and thinning cartilage occur, causing stiffness or pain. Adequate nutrients, muscle maintenance, and silicon help reduce stress on joints. For significant issues, anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving supplements, such as clove extract or devil’s claw, may support joint health.