Question: I have a ewe lamb that is very wide and very long but needs to build more muscle. How often and how far should I run her? She currently weighs 110 lbs and we show the end of March. Maximum weight will be 155 lbs for all lambs at our show.

Answer: Kodye,

Thank you for your email.

The amount of exercise depends upon what the lamb needs. Some lambs need intense exercise to develop muscle and muscle tone, and others need moderate exercise as they already have quite a bit.

A good rule of thumb is to exercise the lambs 3 times per week on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday. Then allow them to rest on Tues, Thurs, Sat, and Sun.

Begin exercising slowly by walking, running or another form for about 5 to 10 minutes the first day. Then increase slowly by about 2 to 3 minutes per day until you are at about 20 minutes to an hour. Again depending upon the lamb.

Thanks again,

Dr. Kevin Burgoon
HONOR Show Chow Nutritionist