Running With Your Dog
My dog Apollo is a great running buddy and I enjoy being able to share my favorite activity with my favorite guy. It’s fun but does take planning, patience, and even more awareness.
Running with your dog is a great way for both of you to get some activity in and especially if you have a very energetic dog it is a great outlet for them. Still it can present some challenges and there are a few things that you need to consider before running with your dog.
What breed are they?
Some dog breeds are more susceptible to hip or knee injuries. Know what impact running could have on your dog and plan accordingly. If they are more prone to these injuries don’t take them out everyday, give them a break and be aware of any strange strides when they are running.
If you have a little dog running fast will likely not be in the cards. Their little legs simply won’t be able to match your stride. Also, know how long of a run is safe for your type of dog. Something like a border collie could probably go miles while a chihuahua could probably go maybe a mile. Do your research and know what is healthy for your breed.
How old is the dog?
You shouldn’t be taking a puppy running. Wait until your dog is almost fully grown before planning to have them as your running buddy. Most will recommend that you wait until they are a year old, at least, before doing any serious running. When your dog is in their “adult” years that is the best time to have them run with you. Their bodies are full grown, they are healthy, and they have the energy to run.
When and where are you running?
If you run before the sun is up then prepare to have a light for your dog. This is my light of choice. It works great, isn’t bulky, and most importantly is super visible. We know as runners that cars rarely see us and if that is the case you can bet they don’t see your dog.
If you run on streets make sure your dog is on the curb side, especially if it’s an even slightly busy road. Are you running on a heavily used path or trail? Keep your dog in control so that you avoid any accidents with other runners, bikers, roller bladders, etc. Know how your dog reacts to different stimuli and prepare for the variety that you will encounter on your run.
What kind of leash do you want to use?
Leash choice is all about preference and comfort for you and your dog. Do you prefer the leash that wraps around your waist so that your hands are free or do you want to loop the leash over your hand? It is all about finding what is comfortable for you and what is safe.
A word on the leashes that wrap around your waist; make sure you have control over your dog as too many people use these and let their dogs run all over often cutting off others on trafficked paths, and if your dog is a heavy puller you’ll likely want to avoid this as I developed stomach issues from using this type of leash with an eager dog.
Be patient.
Running with your dog should be a fun adventure for both of you so let your dog smell, pee, poop and do their things. Some days you’ll have great consistent runs and others your dog is going to want to stop more. Let your dog do their thing. Don’t plan a heavy training day the same when you want to take your dog out. Keep it casual.
Give them breaks.
Don’t run with your dog every day. They need to recover just like we do. It should be fun for you and your dog to run together so don’t overdo it.
Know what you need and what your dog needs to make your runs together safe, fun, and a treat.
