Do you think your dog is ready to compete in an athletic program? Is he or she ready to enter any sporting event? Is it even a good thing to consider training for an event? Before you even train, let alone sign your dog up for the competitions, you need to train. Factors you must take into consideration are the level and type of commitment for you and your dog. You need to consider the chosen activity, the level of fitness you are currently at and the requirement and the dog’s activity level. There are questions about the dog’s physical and emotional structure. You need to be honest about any existing physical problems. You also have to look at the level of skills both you and your dog have. Will balanced conditioning take you to the next level? Before you decide to train, you must consider your dog. You need to ask yourself the following questions.

1. How old is your dog? Age is a definite factor in the training and entering of competitions. An elder dog may not be able to withstand the strain of specific exercise. If the dog is already competing, you may have to cut down on demands, lower the intensity and involve lower impact exercises. A senior dog may also require specific techniques to help him or her get in shape for an event.

2. A younger dog needs different training and conditioning. You have to watch the intensity and type of training you utilize with puppies. Soft immature bones and different maturity rates, mean altering your training methods, patterns and preparatory work to suit the dog. Adolescent training may mean an approach that is both fun and firm. Know the breed and nature of your dog. This will help you pick the right sport and prepare the right training schedule.

3. How healthy is your pet? Health issues are of concern no matter how old your dog is. Are there limitations for your expectations based on inherent breed health risks? The types can vary according to breed, age and gender. Your dog may not be suitable for long-term involvement in a specific sport or activity. The pet may be unable to compete in a specific sport for fear of aggravating a certain health problem.

4. What limitations does your dog have? This is both in terms of mental, emotional and physical abilities. In conformation, there are certain physical standards your pet needs to meet. In agility, your dog requires specific skills and faces challenges. In Earth Dog Trials (or Den Trialing), dogs require the ability to think and act. Is your dog ready?

5. Does your pet have any physical liabilities? They can prevent or slow down a conditioning program. If your dog has arthritis, this will force you to adapt any exercise program to compensate for joint issues. You cannot implement a strenuous program of exercise.

6. Are there any obvious or hidden problems? If you dog has hip or elbow dysplasia, you may not be able to compete in many events. You do, however, still need to ensure you keep your dog in shape. This orthopedic problem requires adjustment in any conditioning.

7. Is your dog suffering from heart or respiratory conditions? This, too, will have an impact on any program of conditioning you plan. You will need to reconsider event participation. You need to avoid anything capable of placing too much stress on the circulatory and respiratory systems. At the same time, your dog needs exercise and conditioning to ensure the problems do not worsen.

8. How well do you trust your vet? Your vet plays a key role in ensuring you are aware of the health restrictions your pet faces. A good vet can advice you on what is best. A good vet will also provide you with the knowledge you need to ensure an active but healthy and long life. A great vet will help you and your pet remain involved and having fun.

Dog Activities can include lure coursing such as that pictured with Shefaro Greyhound KB’s Einstein you can find at the previous page or outdoor family activities with a Shefaro Borzoi http://www.shefaro.com/highlights2009

Information written by Jim Swantek of http://www.ohmydogsupplies.com/dog-supplies/charms-jewelry/ Oh My Dog Supplies, where you can find a incredible assortment of http://www.ohmydogsupplies.com/dog-supplies/dog-toys/ rope toys for dogs online.