9 Tips for running with dogs

Running is great for us as it keeps us fit and healthy, but did you know that running can be beneficial to your dog too? It’s true, running can be extremely good for dogs! Not to mention that you and your dog get to spend time together, which is so important for strengthening the bond between the two of you. It’s not as simple as seems, though. Following these tips for running with dogs will keep you both safe and happy.

One of the greatest benefits of running with your dog is that you’ll be more motivated too. Do you have days when you look outside and see that it’s raining and think to yourself, “Oh I’ll have to skip it for today and run tomorrow…” Well if this is you then those days are over. No more excuses! Your dog wants to go for a run and that’s it, you’re going.

You and your dog really will have fun together and it gives you both something to look forward to. Dogs need exercise to stay mentally and physically healthy and many behavioral issues can be caused by a lack of exercise. There are many things to think about before you decide to take your dog running, though, so follow these tips for running with dogs to keep everyone safe.

9 Tips for Running with Dogs

1. Get your dog checked out first

The first, and one of the most important tips for running with dogs, will need to be done before you even think about taking your pet out for exercise. Before your dog starts running with you it would be a great idea if you took her to the vet for a check up, just to make sure there are no issues that may cause problems.

Your vet will be able to thoroughly examine your dog to make sure there are no existing conditions that may be made worse by running. It’s so important that you do this, because certain conditions can flare up when too much physical activity is carried out.

2. How old is your dog?

If you have a puppy at home then you definitely shouldn’t plan on running with her until she has stopped growing. Wait until your puppy is one or two years old before you start running with her.

Older dogs probably aren’t the best pets to go running with either. They need to take things a bit easier than younger dogs and running should be avoided.

Older dogs can suffer from inflammation, just like we do when we get older. Running is probably the last thing on their minds, as it can be painful.

It doesn’t mean that your dog cannot exercise at all, and your vet will advise you on whether or not a middle aged dog or indeed an older dog should go running. Walking may be a better option, but indeed there are some senior pets that are still in shape to run with their owner.

3. Think about your dog’s breed

There are some breeds of dogs that absolutely love running, they were just born to run. However, there are many breeds out there that definitely shouldn’t run, like Bulldogs.

They are not born athletes and are happier with just a short walk. The best tip for running with dogs is to adopt a breed that enjoys the hobby. Boxers make great runners, along with Border Collies, Weimaraners, German Poiters and some Terriers.

If you have any of these breeds including Bassets, Poodles, Dachshunds or Shih- Tzus then be very careful. They are long backed and short legged dogs that can suffer from back problems. Your vet will advise on whether or not you should run with any of these breeds, but it’s likely that you should not.

Most dogs can easily be trained to run between two and three miles a day but remember to consult with your vet first as it’s better to be safe than sorry.

4. Your dog will need warming up

Just like we need warming up before exercise, our dogs do too. Make sure you prepare your dog’s body so that she’s ready for physical activity. This way she is far less likely to suffer from any injuries, and it only takes a few minutes to do.

Video: Golden retriever pups running for dinner, timelapse style

Start by stretching your dog’s muscles and joints. Go for a short 10 minute walk before you head off on your run, this really is all it takes to get your dog warmed up. Dogs also need to do strength training. Try going for walks with your dog in sand which is quite deep or for a slow hike. These activities will help to strengthen your pet’s muscles.

5. Help build endurance

One of the most important tips for running with dogs is not to start out too quickly. Your dog has to be fit before she can go running with you.

It’s no good just going off on a run and thinking your dog can run 7 miles with you – she absolutely will not be able to keep up without proper conditioning.

Your dog needs to be physically ready and strong enough to go the distance, just as we need to be.

If at any time you feel as though your dog cannot keep up with you, stop the run and take her home.

Dogs aren’t born fit, you have to work at it. Their bodies need to adjust to physical activity, just like us. Try running with your dog for short distances at first, go for 15 minutes during week one and then gradually keep on increasing the distance each week until you know your dog can make the full distance you want to run each day.

6. The run itself

Your dog can’t let you know when she’s feeling exhausted or tired or even in pain. You have to be the judge as to how she is doing. Your dog will do all she can to please you and will keep on going even if she is struggling. If at any time during the run you think your dog is in distress end the run and take her home for a rest and some water.

Video: Lightning Dogs of Power (Episode #9: Run, Blown, and Locked Away)

As you’re running with your dog, keep on looking at her face, breathing, tail position and also her gait. The pace of your dog is the key to how she is doing. She should be running next to you or in front of you. Your dog definitely shouldn’t be behind you struggling to keep up.

If you notice she is struggling behind, then that’s a good indication that you dog just cannot keep up anymore.

You may not think your dog’s tail would be included in any of our tips for running with dogs, but it can actually help you monitor her. Your dog’s tail position, and also her breathing, should be the same as they were at the beginning of the run.

If you notice her tail has dropped or she is breathing louder, this means that she is working too hard. Heavy panting means that her heart rate is way too high, and if your dog starts to foam at the mouth you should end the run immediately and give her some water.

Keep looking at your dog’s gait as this will be a good indicator as to how she is doing. Look out for weakness, fatigue and any injuries. Most dogs when really enjoying a run will trot, canter or gallop, just like a horse, but a dog in distress will run with a gait that shows pain. Keeping an eye on your dog at all times while exercising is one of the tips for running with dogs that could end up saving your pet’s life.

7. Watch your dog’s paws in different weather

Always look at your dog’s paws before and after a run. Hot weather can play havoc with your dog’s paws, as the ground they are running on could be very hot to touch (especially if you’re running on asphalt). Always test the ground surface with your hand before you set off on a run with your dog.

Cold weather can also cause problems as the ground can get frozen. This could cause your dog to develop frostbite. If the weather is very humid, you need to keep an especially close watch on your dog, because dogs don’t have sweat glands. Never let your dog become too hot on a humid day.

8. Look out for soreness

Our dogs can get injured, just like us, so it’s important that you keep a check on your dog for any signs of aches and pains.

You may think that all tips for running with dogs will be used before or during the run, but dogs don’t always show signs of distress until the day after running. Watch out for signs that may include a lack of energy, soreness, being lethargic or just very tired.

A dog that’s doing fine will be unfazed and will be ready for another run. A dog that’s in distress, however, will be less enthusiastic to go for a run again.

Video: K-9 UNITS never run from them

Dogs can develop ligament and back issues caused by tears when out running. Watch out for signs that could include leaning to one side or limping.

Your dog’s behavior can also be a clue. Any change in your dog’s behavior could indicate a problem. A dog who doesn’t want to move around much is likely to be a dog that’s in pain.

Reviews & Comments