#MiddleburyCT #Puppies #Hikes #GrowthPlates
DEAR PAW’S CORNER: I adopted a beautiful pup at about 3 months old this winter. Now that the weather is warming up and Blondie is about 6 months old, I can’t wait to start going on hikes with her. How far can a puppy that age walk? Do you have any safety tips? – Carl J., via email
DEAR CARL: Blondie sounds like an amazing pup! With the correct training, she will eventually be able to accompany you on some hikes – but not this season. Puppies at 6 months of age should only take limited walks, ranging from five to 10 minutes max, on level ground. Don’t take them farther – pushing them too soon can cause a host of physical problems because their growth plates haven’t fused.
Most experts recommend lengthening walks gradually starting from about 9 months. For longer distances over uneven ground, and when training dogs to carry their own panniers, wait until they are 12 to 18 months old.
So, you won’t be able to take Blondie with you on day hikes this year – unless you carry her. There are special “sport sacks” just for carrying small- to medium-size dogs. Think of it as a fitness challenge for you, and a way for your pup to learn to love the outdoors.
In the meantime, you can work on Blondie’s obedience training. It’s critical that she respond immediately when you call her, especially out on hikes. She should also be well socialized to people and other dogs – this prevents a lot of grief on the trail. Right now is the perfect time to do that, and to bond with your dog so that you have fun whether you’re outdoors or not.
Send your tips, comments or questions to ask@pawscorner.com.
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