Running pre growth-plate closing?

trumpetjock

I know that you aren't supposed to run much with your dog before their growth plates close at a year+, but Rocky's fitness and energy levels are through the roof, and I don't have the time to be going on 2 hour hikes twice a day to get him his exercise. We've been doing short (less than 2 miles) jogs lately on a dirt trail that follows a nearby river every other day for the last few weeks, and it wears him out a lot better.

My question: Is it is alright for him to be running on a softer surface like dirt and grass? His lines have absolutely no joint problems, and his parents both have high hip scores (can't remember them off hand).

Any advice would be greatly appreciated.

Motebi

I would not take him for consistent running exercise yet. Is there any way that you might find puppy play groups in your area ? They do power the little ones out while they give them the option to rest up in between romps. It also does wonders to their social behavior. Especially a large breed dog has to be handled carefully in that regard. Also, don't underestimate brain work. Working the pup twice a day for short periods of time in obedience will tire them out too. Another thing you could do: get dog games like buster cubes or or games where the thinking process of your dog gets challenged.

trumpetjock

We do all that and more heh. The only thing that we don't have is the puppy play groups, but we make trips to the dog park pretty often too.

Oh, and he's not a large breed by any means. He'll be a BIG guy if he hits 55 pounds.

This guy just has stupid amounts of energy.

Motebi

That leaves you with lots and lots of puppy brain work.

Shalva

I agree with motebi
no formal running
lots of training and brainwork
my experience is that training (like with a clicker so they have to think) wears my dogs out better than any physical exercise
good luck
s

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