How to Run with Your Dog Successfully

There’s nothing better than including your furry friend in your favorite activities. While not all public places welcome pets, the great outdoors is available to all and offers the perfect environments for both of you. By training your dog to run with you, you can soak in the beauty of nature while staying active together.

Key Takeaways on Running with Your Dog

• The practice of running with your dog requires a gradual process, so start slowly as you ease into the routine. Plus, it’s recommended to begin training your dog to run with you when they are between 1 and 1.5 years old

• To make this activity as enjoyable and safe as possible for your furry friend, our team recommends using a leash, booties, and other visibility gear for the best results

• Additional tips for running with your dog include staying hydrated, frequently checking for fleas and ticks, familiarizing yourself with seasonal risks, and finding a good trail

How to Run with Your Dog

The first thing to keep in mind when running with your dog is to start slowly and ease into the routine. It’s going to take some time for your dog to acclimate and be able to work up to running for longer periods of time. The first thing to mention when it comes to training your dog to run with you is that age matters. Puppies shouldn’t run as it can harm them in the long term. It’s recommended to typically wait until your dog is about 1 to 1.5 years old before you start training.

Besides age, there are some other factors that will determine a dog’s running capabilities including breed and health status. Some small dog breeds will be content with running shorter distances, as they don’t have the endurance of larger breeds.

In terms of how to run with your dog, some things you’ll want to do include:

• Master walking before running – It’s important that your pet is accustomed to loose-leash walking before you start running with your dog. This will ensure you can maintain control of your dog and that they will be less likely to run off on their own.
• Teach your dog proper commands – Having a good understanding of cues and training will help ensure your run is as safe and enjoyable as can be. Some commands you may want to teach your dog include “stop,” “easy,” “heel,” “leave it,” “wait,” and more.
• Build endurance – Just like you wouldn’t jump straight to a marathon, your dog needs to build up their stamina. The idea is to start with short walks and then gradually increase the distance, introducing jogging and then eventually running. While doing this, you’ll want to monitor your dog and observe their body language and general well-being.

Proper Gear in Training Your Dog to Run with You

It’s important when running with your dog that you have the right running gear, which will make everything more enjoyable and safer. Listed below are some of the essentials that you should always have on hand.

Leash

There are many leash options when training your dog to run with you. One possibility is a hands-free waist leash, which will help with balance in your running. Another option is a bungee leash that absorbs the shocks as you and your dog run. Lastly, there is the typical handheld leash if you’re looking for more control or need to be able to drop it quickly.

Visibility Gear

If you like running late at night or are an early riser, it’s critical to stay visible to cars. You can use a reflective harness or leash or a light-up collar to make sure you stand out.

Booties

If your dog will willingly wear them, booties can come in handy all year round! For hot weather, you’ll want to make sure you’re protecting your dog’s paw pads from pavement, blacktop, or sidewalk. To determine if it’s too hot to run with your dog, put your hand or bare foot on the running surface for ten seconds. If it burns or is too hot for you, it’s definitely not safe for your dog.

You also want to be cautious on cold surfaces, as ice and snow can cause frostbite. Also, avoid roads with salt, as it can upset your dog’s stomach if licked or ingested. To be safe, you can purchase booties for your dog, but always check for salt after each run to be sure.

Tips for Running with Your Dog

Running can be a different experience for each dog, so be sure to consider the following tips for running with your dog:

• Find a good trail – You’ll want to do some research in your area to find a good path for your runs. Some things to look for include areas being well lit and featuring low traffic. Also, dirt trails and grass are easier on dogs’ joints compared to concrete, so that’s something to keep in mind.
• Stay hydrated – Running will of course make your dog thirsty, so you’ll want some water on hand. However, be careful not to let them overindulge in water. Small, frequent sips are needed so your pet doesn’t get sick.
• Check for ticks and fleas – Anytime you’re outside you run the risk of exposing your dog to ticks and fleas, so when running with your dog in the woods, it’s important to check for these parasites afterward. Look between toes, on their tail, and around their ears. Additionally, you can ask your veterinarian for the appropriate preventative medications.
• Be aware of seasonal risks – Depending on the season, there will be certain concerns to keep an eye on. For spring, you could be dealing with possible allergens. For summer, you definitely want to be on the lookout for signs of overheating. In fall, you have wet leaves that could make paths slippery or leaves that hide debris. Lastly, for winter, you’ll need to ensure that it’s safe to walk your dog on a given day. It may be too cold for longer periods of time, posing risks of hypothermia or frostbite.
• Cool down slowly – Similar to warming up, cooling down is essential after running with your dog. Give your dog a few minutes to cool down their muscles, explore, and go to the bathroom before heading home.

Some other tips when you run with your dog include:

• Be aware of weather conditions, since dogs can’t handle the heat as well as humans can.
• Watch for signs that they’ve had enough, such as lagging behind you or excessive panting.
• Be aware of trail etiquette such as keeping your dog on the far side when passing other dogs on a leash. This helps avoid conflicts with a dog that may need more space.
• Know your water sources for dipping and drinking, especially in hot weather.
• Look for other features that you may want to check out or need access to such as garbage cans, snack stops, or even dog parks you can stop by.
• Run a few different routes yourself before taking your dog with you.
• Having a post-run plan is key to recovery for both you and your dog. After you run with your dog, give them plenty of fresh water and have a snack ready for them.

Start Training Your Dog to Run with You

We understand how exciting it is to always have a partner when it comes to exploring, but it’s important to be educated on how to run with your dog properly. By following the tips above, you’ll be able to create a positive and fun experience for both you and your furry friend.

And if you need a place for your dog to stay while you’re out running errands or taking a trip, choose Pet Palace! Contact our team today about booking.

Categories: Dogs, Pet Safety, Tips for Your Pets