The simplest form of exercise is walking the Dalmatian with the added benefits of keeping the old heart pumping and strengthening leg muscles. Walking is a good workout that burns up to 140 calories per hour at a moderate pace, about 3 miles per hour. Pick up the speed to a slightly brisker walk of 3.5 mph and burn about 165 calories per hour. Dalmatians are energetic and can inspire the owner to keep up a good pace and can sometimes assist by pulling the owner along at a faster speed than originally intended. It is a relatively inexpensive fitness routine to undertake with the only requirements being a good pair of walking shoes and appropriate outerwear, plus a collar and leash for the Dalmatian. An off leash park is a good choice because the Dalmatian can run loose, play with other dogs, and get plenty of exercise. For the Dalmatian owner to get optimum exercise, he/she will have to walk briskly or try a racing walk that burns about 300 calories per hour. This takes good willpower on the Dalmatian walker's part as the drawback in the off leash park is the temptation to stop and chat with other dog owners, slowing the tempo and lowering the heart rate.
The more active Dalmatian owner may want to try jogging which will also give the dog optimum exercise. A jog/walk combination burns about as many calories as a racing walk, 300, while general jogging burns slightly more at 330 calories per hour. If you are not physically active please check with a physician first before starting a running regimen as there are injuries related with this sport. A good pair of running shoes is required plus appropriate attire for jogging. Also, start off jogging slowly, a few minutes a day, and gradually work up to longer periods of time. An out of shape Dalmatian should not jog for extended periods until it has a chance to work up stamina.
If you already own a bike, cycling can be an inexpensive way to get exercise and spend time with your Dalmatian. If the Dalmatian has not been along on a bike ride, it is best to start off on a deserted road or park. Many people hold on to the leash and allow the Dalmatian to run alongside. The downside is the Dalmatian might pull the cyclist off balance if it stops or runs in a different direction than the bike is pointed. The Dalmatian will stop suddenly for bathroom breaks usually leaving the biker without enough time to brake, leaving the only option to let go of the leash or crash. Some people try devices such as a Springer or K9 Cruiser, which are leashes that attach to the bike leaving the owner's hands free for controlling the bike. Cycling below 10 mph burns about 165 calories per hour, about the same as a brisk walk, and biking up to 15mph burns around 400 calories per hour. As with jogging, start your Dalmatian off slowly to work up speed and stamina. It is not advisable to take a Dalmatian that is under one year old for a bike ride. Wait until its bones have finished growing.
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