best way to condition layed up dog?

john j · Post by **john j** » Sat May 07, 2005 2:16 pm

need advice on a dog that was layed up for six months just dont want to over do it . what do you guys think best way is ? should he be ran alone or pack with one dog how long? i noticed he was back tracking a little and i know he dosent do this i figure he was real tired getting stupid acting

BlueJack · Post by **BlueJack** » Sat May 07, 2005 3:41 pm

I would most likely start out about an hour or so of running and gradually increase the running time after a few outings. I would slowly build up to what a normal hunting days length would be. A dog that is in great shape and generally only runs 3-4 hours an outing most likely wont make it on all day hunts, at least not many. But thats just my opinion. If I noticed him backtracking after a while I would pick him up and call it a day if he normally doesnt do this when in hunting shape as he will let you know when he is getting tired because of sloppy work. I'd also run him both solo and pack him with another dog. But thats just me.

samlyn0001 · Post by **samlyn0001** » Sat May 07, 2005 6:53 pm

I would solo him and first until he can build his stamina back up. I wouldnt want to have to see the dog trying to compete with the others if he has been laid up for that long. If you feel comfortable with it I would start excercising him in the yard before taking him out. Work your way up slowly. If you dont mind me asking, why was he laid up for so long?

john j · Post by **john j** » Sat May 07, 2005 10:40 pm

injury