Running With Your Best Friend
Running with your dog is a great way to get your miles in and keep your fur baby healthy (also very happy).
But not every dog is suited to running! Make sure you take some things into account before strapping your pups running shoes on.
Breed:
Your dogs breed may play a big role in whether or not he or she will be able to run with you. If your dog is a short snouted breed, like a pug or bulldog, running them is not a good idea. If you have a mixed breed or just aren’t sure, you should always check with your vet!
Age:
Is your dog still a pup? Puppies are still developing and shouldn’t be exposed to strenuous exercise.
“be aware that running is not safe for puppies, as their bones are still growing. For most breeds, wait until the dog is about one-and-one-half-years old.” -American Kennel Club
Climate/Weather:
We know you are a dedicated runner and would likely train given any situation (snow, heat, rain, etc.) but your dog shouldn’t! Dogs can easily overheat, so in the summer run them in the early mornings or evenings. In the winter avoid frigid, snowy or icy days. Dogs can slip and get injured just like you!
Start out slow:
If your dog seems like a good running candidate, start them off walking and then jogging before you run them. Just like when you were a beginner, your pup will need to build up their endurance.
Also if they are new to the leash, they will need to learn how to be a good leash walker, before they are a good leash runner.
Lower the intensity:
This is not the time for speed work. Save your intense training days for training with humans. Your dog may be fast, but pushing them to run a hard or long work out with you is not safe. Pushing your dog beyond its limits can lead them to hyperventilate or overheat.
Your furry friend can’t tell you when it’s too much for them. So be aware of what your dogs body language looks like. If they are trying to stop or pull off to the grass, let them.
Know the environment:
Some dogs are great with people and other dogs, but you never know when someone else, or someone else’s dog is not! Always keep that in mind when passing people on the sidewalk. If you know your dog is a jumper, you need to make a wide pass.
Consider crossing the street if you see another person walking/running their dog. You never know if that dog is friendly to other dogs. I would do this even if they are leashed, but especially If you see a dog approaching not on a leash .
Lastly let them have fun!
Most dogs will absolutely love to walk or run with you. Enjoy that bonding time with them. It’s a great way for them to safely explore their surroundings and get some vital exercise. Dogs need exercise just like we do.
Tips from the American Kennel Club:
“Your dog is finally trained and conditioned to be your running companion. But to ensure that he’s safe and enjoys running with you, keep the following tips in mind:
Warm up your dog before you run and cool him down when you’re finished by walking for several minutes.
Be aware of weather conditions. Dogs can’t handle heat and humidity as well as humans can.
Carry water on your walks and offer it to your dog regularly.
Give your dog frequent breaks, so he can recharge, go to the bathroom, and enjoy his surroundings.
Only allow your dog to run off-leash where it’s safe and legal, and only if he has a reliable recall amid distractions.
Watch your dog for signs that he’s had enough, such as excessive panting or lagging behind you. Dogs may run to please their owner, even when they want to stop.”
-See you on the road, stay safe out there