Everything you need to know about running with a dog

Having a dog requires you to be a little active because such pets need to move to feel normal. Some people even get a new dog so they can be more active and healthy. However, if you already have an active lifestyle and want to incorporate your dog in it, there  You can use your puppy as extra weight during your functional exercises; you can go for walks or hikes with your big dog or run with them. People who’d like to develop a running routine can include their dogs, as dogs love to run and walk and be with their best friends. Running with a dog can seem easy, but there are many things you need to know to make your pet feel comfortable and achieve the distance you need, from how long your dog can run to tips on how to run together. In this article, we will talk about everything you need to know about running with a dog.

• Check if your dog is an excellent running candidate

To know if your dog is suitable to be your running partner, you need to consider many things. First of all, think of its breed; breeds such as golden retrievers, Dalmatians, Huskies, collies, and gundogs, are more suitable for being long-distance companions. Dogs like Salukis and greyhounds are suitable for sprinting shorter distances. Brachycephalic or short-nosed dogs such as Shih Tzus, Frenchies and pugs, are not recommended to run in the first place, especially if the weather is hot. Another thing to consider is the age and health of your dog. If your dog is still a puppy it is not recommended that you take it running as their growth plate (at the end of their bones) is still growing. This could make them more at risk of injuries. Furthermore, if your pet suffers from any joint issues, better not take them on a run. Even if your dog is overweight and you’d like to take them running to help them shed away some pounds, it is better to ask your veterinarian about a better solution, so you do not hurt their joints.

• Start slowly

Your dog, just like you, needs to train to be able to run fast and long, so do not suddenly decide to take them on a 5K run if they do not have any previous running experience. Instead, you can start with short distances and increase it simultaneously when things go well. Find a place that you both enjoy running in and a distance that is suitable for both. There are many ways in which you can adjust to make this work. For example, if you do many rounds of running and pass by your house every time, you could take your pet on the first round and then drop them home. You could also pick them up on your last round to encourage you.

• Walk with them before you run together

Before teaching your dog to become a runner, you need to walk with them to teach them your pattern and how you would like your running routines. It would help if you mastered this before running together to avoid having grazed knees or other problems. Even if you can let them off the lead, you must be sure that you are still able to trust them to stay close and control them with recall so that you can keep a close eye on them.

• Do not push too hard on them

Keep in mind that dogs are not like humans and thus do not sweat from their skin; instead, they pant to lower their body temperature. Therefore, if you push them too hard, you can start hyperventilating and have breathing difficulties. So to avoid that, you need to pay attention to the signs your dog is giving you and stop whenever you feel tired, rather than push them to more than their limits. Stay aware of your pet’s body language for signs that they’ve had enough. Doing so will make running enjoyable for both of you and healthy, helping you bond better.

• Create rituals

Does your dog get excited when you hold their leash, knowing that it is time for a walk? Repeating the same routine before a run can help your dog stay calm. It would help if you had the calmness of your dog to make the best out of the run. Rituals or preparation routines can include: leashing your dog, having it sit next to you and wait for your go, putting on the harness, and others.

If you buy them a special running harness, they will differentiate between a regular walk and running time when you put it on them. Chest harnesses are perfect for running dogs. Even if retractable leashes are the most popular, they’re not the best for running. Instead, pick a leash 2 to 3 meters long and ensure it had reflectors and a shock absorber. If you’d instead run without having anything between your hands, you could get a cross-body leash or a belly strap. Keep in mind that leashes which you can attach to your legs are not recommended for runners.

• Be mindful

To run with your dog means that you and your dog need to allow lots of dedication to this. There are lots of distractions on the way for both of you: people, other dogs or animals, bikes, cars, etc. For this reason, it is essential to be focused on your dog and to set your own distance goals and pace. This is even more important at the beginning, where your dog requires all of your attention. Please note that it is very important to observe your dog closely, ensuring that your runner’s enthusiasm is not higher than your dog’s needs.

• Check the temperature outside before going out

Do you usually run even if it is cold or hot outside? Running with a dog requires that you check the temperature outside before taking this decision. It is safe to run with a dog when the temperature is between -10 and +15 degrees Celsius. If the temperature is higher, make sure you keep your dog in the shades such as the woods. You can also run very early in the morning or late in the evening during the hot months of the summer. However, avoid taking your dog out when the sun is blazing and the weather is scorching as it might suffer a heat stroke. Keep in mind that dogs cannot cope well with heat, especially humans, as they have fewer sweat glands than us.

• Make sure the running route is paw-friendly

Look for a surface or ground that is well cushioned to count as a safe option for your dog. Sand, meadows, and forest soul are the best options. Sand is a good option for both dogs and humans. Your dog’s paws are susceptible and can feel sore when they spend lots of time on hot asphalt, especially in the summer.

• You do not need to increase your dog’s food intake if they become a runner

Generally, you do not have to change your dog’s food if you take them up to three times per week for a run. However, you need to make sure that they are getting high-quality food always. You do not need to add more protein to their meals as long as they get 20 to 24% of their portion. The best way to know if your dog needs more food is to observe them; do they look more hungry than usual? Are they losing weight? If yes, you can increase their food rations.

What is also essential is that you provide enough liquids before and after the run. You might also need to give them some water during the run as well. Make sure that the water is somehow cool.

• Dogs can get sore muscles as well

Even dogs can get sore muscles from working out. Your dog’s muscle metabolism is somehow similar to ours. In order to notice that your dog has sore muscles, you will see that it is having some difficulties getting up, and its movements will become less grateful. Like us, sore muscles will show after one or two days of a workout or a run.

• Know when to give them a break

Your dog will need several short breaks while running to breathe, rest, drink water, and sniff around whenever it is possible. Try to allow your dog to run freely to make them happier. If you see any sign of exhaustion such as refusing to run, rapid and heavy panting, pulled back lips in extreme manners, a tongue that is dark red, or some excessive drooling, take a break immediately.

So whenever you decide to make your dog your running partner, make sure you abide by these rules to keep both of you healthy and happy. Enjoy your run together!

Sources:

https://www.runnersworld.com/uk/training/a775126/how-to-run-a-5k-with-your-dog/

https://www.runtastic.com/blog/en/9-tips-for-running-with-a-dog/