One of the best ways to spend quality time with your dog while getting exercise is to run together. Running can improve fitness for pet parents and their pups, and it's a fun activity that dogs love.
Before You and Your Dog Start Running
Before you and your pup head out for a run, be sure you can handle the exercise and have a vet checkup for your dog. It's preferable to wait until your dog is fully developed before extensive exercise. A dog's bones are fully formed between seven and 20 months, depending on the breed. Small breeds like Chihuahuas develop faster. An older dog may have painful joint problems. Your veterinarian can determine if long runs are safe for your dog.
Benefits of Running with Your Dog
Dogs find joy in outdoor activities and exploring new places. When you run with your dog, you don't get stuck in your mindset. Your dog's excitement can be contagious and is an excellent motivator. If you've gotten into the habit of running the same route each day, it gets monotonous. When your dog starts running with you, the experience is new. Dogs always want to investigate new sounds, smells, and sights, which may lead you to new paths and trails you haven't explored before.
Your dog can keep you on track. Dogs instinctively know when it's time to take a break. Take frequent breaks to prevent injury and burnout. Your dog may want to investigate a new scent or take a brief break to enjoy the fresh air. Frequent breaks can prevent injuries to you and your dog.
Watch Your Dog for Signs of Fatigue
Always monitor your dog's heat tolerance. Dogs overheat faster than humans. If your dog pants excessively, vomits, or becomes weak, you should get immediate medical attention. It's best to go for our run early in the morning or later in the evening. Stay inside during the hottest part of the day and choose shaded paths for your run.
Tips To Keep Your Dog Safe
• Always begin with low-impact exercise. If your run is too intense to start, you run the risk of your dog suffering an injury. Start by alternating between walking and jogging. Take your time and let your dog explore the route before you start jogging. Give time for your pup to have a potty break before your run and bring bags for clean-up.
• Choose a path that suits you. Surfaces that allow for good traction, low-traffic neighborhoods with good lighting are best. Choose a grass or dirt trail that will be easier for your dog to manage and can avoid stiff joints from running on concrete. If you run in wooded areas, check your dog for ticks and fleas after the run.
• Be sure to check your local leash ordinances before running with your dog. Some cities, such as Louisville, Kentucky, require dogs to be restrained on a four-foot leash, while others may allow six-feet. You should plan to always leash your dog when running in order to protect those you pass on the path. A leash of that length allows your dog freedom on the run while you maintain control. You should train your dog to stay by your side while you run. The dog's nose should be at the level of your knees, and your arm should be down, not stretched out in front of you with your dog pulling.
• You should teach your dog the basic voice commands before you start running. The dog should respond to sit, stay, and come on request, especially off-leash. Another helpful command is "leave it." Teaching basic obedience is helpful when encountering other dogs and their owners.
• Protect your dog's delicate paws and avoid concrete or asphalt surfaces, and sandy beaches, which can scald a dog's paws. If you run in the winter, be careful on icy or snow-covered surfaces. Always check your dog's paws after a run.
• After a run, walk the last few minutes to cool down. Give your dog some exploring time before heading inside.
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