Building into Distance
Hi, getting my first Aussie tomorrow, 8 week old male. I have done some preliminary research and understand that exercise like walks should be limited to 5 minutes per month of age (up to twice a day). Obviously only after vet has cleared him for public surfaces at some point in his vaccine schedule.
My main questions concerns building up after he’s cleared. I have only ever owned small breeds prior to moving to Colorado. For context, I am a distance runner (13-35 miles), big hiker (frequent 15-30 mile days with 2-8k vertical), and backcountry skier. I would obviously like to develop him to be the ideal outdoor companion.
At what point should I start building beyond just walks at the 5 minute per month rule? Should I be waiting for full growth plate closure to start anything more than walking or should I be starting to build hikes and such in earlier? I want to be aggressive about building his capacity but absolutely don’t want risk creating health issues down the line. Has anyone had much experience with this and can provide me some guidance?
Separately, I regularly go to 13-14,000ft elevations on my hikes and runs, is there’s any concerns with altitude sickness in dogs or should I just treat this like he’ll get better with time like a human? Any things to look out for to indicate an issue requiring decent? I will obviously ask my vet about these things, but wanted to get input from experienced owners. Anything is helpful, thanks.
Photo of Dexter at 5 weeks for dog tax is
Edict: learning that 5 minute saying is bunk, definitely going to ask my vet, just collecting experience before.