Running with your dog is a fantastic way to bond and stay active. But before running off, remember that planning is essential to keep you and your furry pal safe.
Below are some tips when running with dogs for a safe, healthy, and rewarding experience for you and your best friend.
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Content:
- How to Train Your Dog to Run With You
- Best Dogs to Run With
- How Far Can Dogs Run With You
- Conclusion
How to Train Your Dog to Run With You
Preparation and patience are key. Before running with your dog, here are some things to keep in mind to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for you both:
Master Walking Your Dog on a Loose-Leash
How to run with your dog? First things first, start with walking. Before you run, make sure that your dog is comfortable walking on a loose leash. But what’s the right way to walk a dog on a leash?
Train Your Dog To Walk Beside You
According to Caitlin Crittenden, dog trainer at Life Dog Training, it can sometimes be dangerous when a dog is leading the walk. In some cases, they may cause injury, especially when they have a tendency to run-off all of a sudden (e.g. when they see something interesting). Train your dog to walk beside you (not in front or elsewhere) to prevent dangerous pulling, getting tangled up, and accidentally tripping over them when running.
Check Leash Laws
Check if there are leash laws in your location before heading out. For example, some places legally require owners to have leashes on their dogs when walking, among other things. It is therefore important to check local laws before running with your dog for awareness and compliance.
Teach Basic Commands
Teaching commands like “Sit”, “Stay” “Stop” “Turn left/right”, and “Leave it” helps you to manage your dog's behavior during runs. Meanwhile, Teaching “Come” is crucial for safety, allowing you to call your dog back if they wander. Use positive reinforcement using rewards during training to reinforce desired behaviors.
In a Reddit discussion about positive reinforcement training methods, one commenter shared that for the “Come” command for example, she would first assess the environment using the 3 D’s of dog training namely - Distance, Duration, and Distraction. This involves questions such as - Is my distance too big?; Am I taking too long to give the reward?; Are there a lot of distractions in the environment? She recommended lessening or shortening these before moving into environments that are more difficult.
Use Cues to Change Pace
Establish verbal cues for different speeds. For instance, if you say “Let’s go!” to signal that it’s walking time, you can try using different cues when running.
For example, you can say “Run, (dog’s name)!” to signal it's time to speed up, and “Let’s slow down, (dog’s name)” if you want to slow down. Remember to consistently use these phrases during your running sessions for better recall.
Train for Endurance
How to start running with your dog after following the tips above? Build gradually. Start by incorporating short running intervals into walks and gradually increase the duration to safely build your dog's endurance.
Use devices such as the Petcube GPS Tracker to monitor your dog’s activity levels to ensure that they are fit, healthy, and are getting enough exercise.
Get the Right Gear
- Collar or harness: Use a comfortable collar or harness with ID tags, leash, and a tracker such as the Petcube GPS Tracker.
- Dog running leash: Opt for a hands-free leash to keep your dog close.
- Running accessories: Consider a running belt bag or backpack for essentials, paw ointment for foot protection, jackets for cold weather, and a collapsible water bowl to keep your dog hydrated.
By following these guidelines, you and your dog can enjoy running together while ensuring safety and fun.
Best Dogs to Run With
Running with your dog can be rewarding, but before hitting the pavement with them, you must first determine if they are fit for running. Size, breed, and health are important factors to consider to determine whether your dog can handle a running routine. While some breeds are natural runners, others may struggle or be unsuitable for strenuous activity. Always consult your vet if you're uncertain about your dog's capabilities.
Factors to Consider
Age and Health
Age plays a significant factor in a dog’s running ability. Puppies shouldn't run until fully grown because they are more susceptible to injury and are more prone to distractions. At the same time, they must complete vaccinations first. Senior dogs may struggle with health issues like arthritis or cognitive decline, making running uncomfortable or risky. Other conditions, such as heart disease, can also limit a dog’s ability to engage in strenuous exercise.
Dog Breed
Dog Breeds Known For Their Stamina and Energy
Several dog breeds are known for their athleticism and make excellent running buddies due to their high energy and endurance. These breeds are often well-suited for running and can keep pace with you. Remember, a vet check is always wise before starting any new exercise routine.
Here are the top choices:
- Labrador Retriever: Friendly and active, Labs have great stamina, making them good dogs to run with.
- Vizsla: Being agile and full of energy, Vizslas love running. Not to mention, they require regular exercise.
- Australian Shepherd: Aussies are very smart and active dogs that excel in long-distance running.
- Border Collie: Highly energetic, Border Collies need plenty of exercise and enjoy running.
- Weimaraner: Muscular and agile, Weimaraners have the stamina to keep up with a good pace.
- German Shorthaired Pointer: Athletic and bred for hunting, GSPs need regular exercise and are excellent running buddies.
Breeds That Are Not Equipped For Running
- Brachycephalic Breeds: Boston Terriers, Pugs, and English Bulldogs have short muzzles, leading to breathing difficulties during exercise.
- Small or Toy Breeds: Chihuahuas, Yorkshire Terriers, and Shih Tzus may struggle to keep up due to shorter legs, making them more susceptible to injuries.
- Giant Breeds: Great Danes and Saint Bernards are prone to joint issues, and jogging can exacerbate these problems.
Always consider your specific dog's health, fitness, and activity level before starting a jogging routine. Individual variations within breeds can impact their suitability for running.
Personality & Temperament
Lastly, consider your dog's personality and temperament. Some dogs thrive on high-energy activities, while others prefer a more leisurely pace. Assessing your dog's overall physical health is vital to ensure they can enjoy running with you.
How Far Can Dogs Run With You
“How many miles can I run with my dog?” you might ask. Well, did you know that the average dog can sprint at speeds of 15 to 20 miles or 24 to 32 kilometers per hour? Some high-energy breeds can go even faster! While running alongside your furry friend can be a lot of fun, keep in mind they can outrun you in some cases.
If your dog happens to dash off, a GPS tracker such as the Petcube GPS Tracker can be a useful gadget for tracking their every move in real-time, helping you find them more quickly.
Conclusion
Running with your dog can be a great way to enjoy nature and deepen your connection with your furry friend, all while keeping fit & healthy. Keeping these guidelines in mind when running with your dog helps ensure a safe, enjoyable, and rewarding experience for both you and your pal.
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