Top 10 Safety Tips for Dog Outdoor Exercise
1. Exercise Care for Dogs
When it comes to outdoor activities with your furry friend, the choice of a leash is paramount. Leashes are typically available in chest harness or collar styles. For small breeds like Chihuahuas, Shih Tzus, Pomeranians, and Poodles, a chest harness is generally more common. However, for dogs undergoing behavioral training or on the advice of a veterinarian, a collar might be more suitable.
Temperature Management: It's crucial to select the right time for your dog's outdoor exercise based on the weather. In the summer, avoid taking your dog out during extreme heat or when the ground is too hot. You can gauge the ground temperature by placing the back of your hand on the pavement for five seconds; if it's too hot for you, it's too hot for your dog.
Location Selection: During the summer, try to minimize trips to dense forests or areas with thick grass to reduce the risk of external parasites. Also, avoid letting your dog walk up steep, long staircases for extended periods to protect their joints and spinal health.
Additional Tips: Gradually increase your dog's exercise intensity rather than making sudden, drastic changes. Especially for puppies, intense physical activities should be avoided during their growth phase. It's also unsafe to ride bicycles, scooters, or motorcycles with your dog; always prioritize safety for both you and your pet.
2. Reproductive Care for Dogs
Heat Cycle of Bitches: Female dogs have a cyclic heat cycle, typically every six months, with each heat lasting around 15 days. Small dogs usually reach their first heat between 6 to 8 months of age. It's not advisable to allow breeding during the first heat cycle.
Signs of Estrus: During estrus, bitches may exhibit signs such as swelling of the vulva, discharge of pale red mucus, and an inclination to allow male dogs to mount. Owners should be vigilant about the cleanliness of their dog's external genitalia and ensure they are supervised during walks to prevent them from running off with male dogs or accidentally becoming pregnant.
Male Dogs in Heat: Male dogs are passively stimulated by the presence of estrous females, leading to sexual excitement. It's vital to keep male dogs leashed to prevent them from following the scent of estrous females and getting lost.
Spaying and Neutering: Spaying or neutering is usually recommended to be done around one year of age during a nonheat period. This procedure can reduce aggressive behavior, prevent reproductive system diseases, stabilize their sexual behavior, and decrease the likelihood of wandering. However, there are also potential health risks, such as weight gain, to consider.
