Hi Kelly,

If your dog doesn't tell you when he's had enough there are things you can look for in your dog to be sure he doesn't overheat (which would be my main concern, especially in hot or humid weather).

If he's starting to over-heat (or suffering from heat exhaustion) some things that you may notice are that he starts to pant excessively, his tongue grows larger (both of which you described) and he may start to salivate excessively. You may also notice that the tongue, gums, inside of lips, and so forth becomes very red!!

Heat exhaustion can progress very quickly to heat-stroke (which can be fatal). In this case watch for signs like weakness, loss of balance, excessive panting, roaring breathing sounds, excessive salivation, decrease in mental awareness, collapse and of possibly death.

Best thing is to know your dog! My guys love to play ball to and most don't know their own limits when they are 'in drive'. They become fixated on the subjct (in this case the ball) and will chase till the drop. I have to know each dog, watch for signs of exhaustion and turn them in when I feel they've had enough.

That said a dog who is very fit will be better prepared to play for longer periods of time!! So if you want to build endurance and stamina in your dog there are definately ways to do so. However, even a very fit dog has his limitations... especially in hot weather, so always be aware!

Not sure if this is they type of info you were looking for, but hope you find it helpful.

This info after conditioning two GSD's for AD's, and for other stuff too...

IMO, there is a big difference between a dog playing intense two-toy (as an example) which to me is somewhat like basketball for humans - lots of running, but with breaks (no matter how short) in between.... and a dog preparing to jog constantly for 12 miles, with only a couple of rule required breaks - more like training for cross country running or a marathon.

The surface to be run on matters (IMO) when preparing for the AD, or similar endurance activity. i.e. there is a difference between running the AD on an asphault surface in 80-90 degree temps and running the AD on gravel in 70 - 80 degree temps. In either case, the dogs pads (feet) are as much a concern as anything.

IMO, they need to be conditioned as any athlete would need to be conditioned - starting out with relatively short distances, and working up, on the type of surface desired. (check pads daily!)

In my limited experience, what they can handle on a stretch preparing for an AD is way different than what I *thought* they could handle based on fetch play across 5 acres of yard. Sort of like the difference between spending an hour at the gym working on weights v. 15 grueling minues on a treadmill. (LOL - depdending on what you consider "grueling!" - I'm sure you can tell my own opinion about that!)

I personally have mixed opinions about the springer type devices v. holding the leash in your hand v. tying the leash to the handlebars. We use the "leash in the hand" method as the dog is not likely to get tangled up with the bike in case of accident, but of course there is the risk of a loose dog. I personally think some of that preference is personal, and also environmental - a risk evaluation largely based on situation.

Mean time, good luck!! Endurance conditioning is not the same as the more "sprint" type work. Breaks - no matter how short - make a difference, and pad conditioning makes a HUGE difference depending on surface.

Beth

Mel..

Exactly what I was looking for. Thanks.

Anytime Kelly, glad to help. :-)