My 7 year old Shitz Shu

Question
QUESTION: I have just adopted a 7 year old Shitz Shu from a rescue center, my dog is healthy and eats quite well - no real problems but I am wondering how far I whould walk her every day and how fast should we go as her little legs are short - I don't want her to get fat. I would appreciate any information you can give me.  Many thanks.

ANSWER: To start with, go at a pace that she is comfortable going. Make your walks at least 30min long right now. How far you go depends on the pace you walk and how often (if ever) you stop. I wouldn't worry about distance, but would focus more on going at a comfortable pace for 30-45 minutes each day.

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QUESTION: Thank you that helps a lot. She also keeps biting her feet - is this normal or should I seek medical advice? I have always cleaned her feet after walks outside etc with doggie wipes - could she be allergic to these? is there something else I should try?
Many thanks.   Mariea

ANSWER: Where is she biting her feet, Mariea? Is she biting all of them, or just specific ones? Does she lick them until they look red-raw, or is she just licking off the wipey-stuff?

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QUESTION: Sometimes until they are red and a little bleeding - I am quite worried. Mariea

Answer
If it is her pads that are red and bloody, then you are walking her too much on asphalt or concrete. Wait until they are healed up before taking her for any more walks, and if you must walk her on a hard surface like asphalt or concrete, get her some booties to wear so her little pads don't get chewed up.

I cannot deduce, based on the information you've given me, just how bad the problem is, so I would recommend that you have a vet take a look at her feet.