Have you been running with your dog for a while? How has your experience always been? Well, there’s one thing for sure – dogs can be great running companions. They can be your training partner, and this can boost your motivation and increase your likelihood to stick to your training program. The best thing about running with your dog is that they are reliable and can adjust to your pace. Dogs are always ready to get out and get some exercise. They are full of energy to expend and always happy to see you – they never have excuses!
If you want to make your pooch, your training partner, here are the best practices that you need to follow to keep him safe, comfortable, and healthy.
1. Talk to your vet
Don’t begin training your dog to run without first consulting your vet. You need to talk to your vet to see when your dog can start running. Small dogs can start running when they are six months old, but for larger dogs, you may have to wait until they are at least on year old to start. The vet will provide you with the guidelines for your specific breed as well as how much running your pooch can do once you begin.
By checking with your vet, you will also get more insights into your dog’s breed. Certain breeds can do distance running better than others. For example, terriers, shepherds, retrievers, and other working dogs are better suited for long-distance running than others. For small dogs, it’s best to stick to walking.
2. Start and build up gradually
When you’re confident you can start running with your dog, you need to start him out slowly, the same way you would if you were new to running. Building up gradually helps toughen up your dog’s pads and reduce the likelihood of injury. This way your furry friend can work his way up, and eventually, he’ll become a great runner and running companion. After your first session, check his pads for signs such as tenderness, bleeding, or raw spots. These are indicators that he overran, and he could need a few days off from running.
3. Keep your pooch hydrated
Staying hydrated is good for both you and your pooch. So, make sure you carry enough water for both of you. If you plan to run long distances, you need to know where to stop and refill your water bottle. Train your dog to drink from a water bottle or carry a portable dog drinking dish where he will drink from. Don’t allow your dog to drink water from puddles as the water in them is usually high in toxins and contaminants.
4. Prepare adequately
When running with a dog, your responsibility increases outdoors. If your dog is well-trained and socialized, your will have a relaxed run for other road users. Both you and your dog have to keep calm. Your dog should be used to a leash, must follow your guidance, react to your commands, and even be able to properly cope with stimuli from other dogs.
This is why running with a dog requires adequate preparation. Train your dog in a static environment and then introduce him to a dynamic environment. When your dog can strictly follow your commands, you’ll enjoy a relaxed run.
5. Be mindful of your dog
There are many distractions in different forms when running with a dog out there, including kids, people, other dogs, bikes, cars, other animals, and many others. Therefore, you must stay focused on your dog have your own distance or pace goals that you want to achieve. This is especially important in the beginning because your furry friend needs all your attention.
You must be aware of your dog’s needs and closely observe him to make sure he’s not lagging behind.
6. Stick to a paw-friendly route
Dog’s paws are highly sensitive and can get sore on a hot rough surface. The more cushioned the surface, the easier it will be on your dog’s paws and joints than running on hard surfaces like the road or sidewalks. Stick to trails that have meadows, forest soil, or sand.
Another important thing you can do is get a paw balm that you can use to protect your dog’s feet by applying it both before and after a run.
7. Listen to your dog
While dogs can’t talk, there are signs that you have to pay close attention to such as heavy panting, foaming at the mouth, slowing down, and glazed eyes. These are signs that your dog is tired or overworked. Therefore, you must give him several short breaks during a run so that he can drink water, rest, breathe or sniff. In case of the four aforementioned signs of exhaustion, immediately stop running and take an extended break.
8. Don’t let your dog pull you
When running with a dog, you don’t want him to pull you, because you wouldn’t enjoy a relaxed run. Therefore, you should use a 4-to 6-foot leash as this can help you train your pooch to stay by your side. A longer leash could lead to a chaotic run on the trail.
The best guideline to follow is to ensure your dog’s nose is even with your knee and your arm is straight down and holding the leash right by his collar. Maintain this position for a few weeks when you’re training your dog to run, and also during walks. You can find the best dog leash or harnesses for running on the market.
9. Don’t run when it’s too hot
Dogs are more susceptible to overheating than humans because they have heavy fur coats and they don’t sweat like us. Running when it’s too hot is not recommended, so don’t run in the midday heat. Whenever possible run in the shade and avoid hot surfaces. Also, watch for signs of overheating, including panting, foaming at the mouth, agitation, inability to staged, unstable movement, and glazed eyes. In case of any of these signs, thoroughly wet him with cold water and get him into a shade immediately.
The above are some of the best practices for running with your dog, which you can think about taking your pooch on your next run. You need to consider your dog’s breed since certain breeds are better suited for distance running than others. For, instance the best dogs for runners include retrievers, pointers, Great Danes, shepherds, collies, terriers, and hounds. Always be mindful of your dog in your runs.
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