Too Much Exercise?

© photo copyright 2009 Carrie Boyko

I Guess We Overdid the Workout Today!

Some days Tanner seems to want to tell me something...he looks imploringly at my face as if to say, "do you understand what I'm trying to say?" I guess today's look was something like, "Mom, I'm pooped. That was a long fetch game at the dog park."


Or perhaps it was too long of a run this morning. I recently read a friend's article on dogs that make good runners. The Golden Retriever didn't make the list, but Tanner doesn't have to worry. No way I'd let him go. He's affectionate, loyal, obedient (generally) and attentive. What more could I ask?

This summer Tanner turned 3 years old. I am finally beginning to notice signs of impending adulthood--a slight lessening of the energy level. That's not to say he doesn't still school the whole pack at the dog park on getting to the Fetch ball. But his day will come when someone will take that job away from him.

I guess I'll have to modulate his exercise, just as I do with Xena, who is nearly 13. She joins us for most walks, but we double back and drop her off at the house before continuing on, and she no longer runs with us. I suppose one day I'll be doubling back with Tanner--but not anytime soon. And thank goodness for that.