Weighted Vest Neighborhood Walking Guide

🛑 Safety First

• Start with 5% of your dog’s body weight add weight as your dog gets stronger

• Use on walks or light jogs (No running, running is designed for our advanced workout) 

• Not recommended for puppies, seniors, or dogs with joint issues without vet approval

🐕🦺 20–30 Minute Weighted Vest Walking Workout

(Beginner-friendly, scalable for any neighborhood route. Keep fresh water available)

1. Warm-Up (3–5 minutes) – No Weight or Very Light Weight

Let your dog get acclimated before working.

• Easy pace walking

• Sniff breaks allowed (lowers stress and preps nose + brain)

2. Steady-Pace Walk (5 minutes)

Vest on, start with a moderate pace.

• Walk in a straight route or familiar loop

• Keep movement fluid; avoid abrupt stops/starts

• Focus on good leash manners (vest often helps calm pulling)

🌟 Add Mini-Work Sets During the Walk

These add mental + physical challenge without needing special equipment.

3. Curb-Step Reps (2 minutes)

Use neighborhood curbs or low ledges.

• Step up → pause → step down

• 6–10 reps per side
  Great for hind-end activation and joint stability.

4. Slow-Motion Walking (2 minutes)

Slow your speed intentionally.

• Dog must control body under load

• Excellent for building shoulder, core, and hip strength

🧠 Mental Conditioning Segment (2–3 minutes)

Weighted walks = ideal time to reinforce calm thinking.

• “Sit + stay,” “down + stay,” or “look at me” at corners

• 2–3 short obedience breaks
  This builds impulse control under mild physical load.

🏃 Power Intervals (3–5 minutes)

Rotate 1 minute of brisk pace + 1 minute relaxed pace.

• Optional: include a mild hill or incline if available

• Avoid running with weighted vest — brisk walk only

🔄 Cool Down (3–5 minutes) – Vest Removed

Finish with light walking and sniffing.

• Helps prevent muscle stiffness

• Let heart rate come back down gradually

📅 Weekly Weighted Vest Routine

2-3 weighted walks per week is ideal.
Combine with 3-4 unweighted walks or play sessions.

Progression:

• Week 1: 5% body weight

• Week 2–3: Increase by 3–5% only if dog tolerates well

• Never exceed 10–12% only according to your dogs strength and comfort.

⚠️ Safety Checkpoints

Stop immediately if you see:

• Excessive panting or slowing down

• Stiff gait or limping

• Shaking, whining, or discomfort

• Heat signs (red gums, drooling, tongue curling)

ADVANCE WORKOUT 101