I am an avid animal lover and was the proud mama of 2 big dog – Duke and Brutus! Do you want to know a secret? Jogging or running with your dog can be the ticket to better health for you and your pet. It’s true. Not only is the experience good for our canine pals but for their masters, as well. Many dog breeds have bundles of energy and need to spend at least an hour per day exercising anyway. Daily exercise isn’t such a bad idea for the average person, either. Exercise helps us achieve an ideal fitness level, of course.
No two dog breeds are created equal. This has a direct impact on running with your dog. It is important to make sure what is good for you will also be good for your dog.
Tips for Running with your Dog
Visit the vet
Check with your veterinarian before taking your dog out for a run. Running around in the backyard is not the same as going on a jog for a couple of miles. Age, size and health are the most important factors in determining whether or not a dog should be running with you. Your vet can outline an exercise program that best suits your dog before you lace up your running shoes.
Choose the right place
Where you choose to run matters to your dog. Hard surfaces like concrete and asphalt can be tough on a dog’s paws. Debris can get caught in their paws and cause an injury. These road surfaces can also get quite hot in the summer and cause them to get overheated faster. Opt to run on a dirt road or grassy area that will be easier on your dog’s paws.
Love the leash
Many dogs are natural explorers. They will bounce from one tree or shrub to the next, so they can investigate new sights and smells. That’s one reason why keeping your dog on a leash is rule No. 1 during a run. Many communities have leash laws and not having a dog on a leash can result in significant fines. The leash will help you keep control over your dog, so they don’t harass random people, chase cats or otherwise get into trouble.
Ease into running
When you first start running with your dog, be careful to go at a pace that works for both of you. Your dog may not be accustomed to running as far or as long as you. It’s acceptable to start out with a brisk walk and work your way into a run. Allow them time to get used to going a couple of miles before you make them run that far. Check out this article for more tips on training your dog to run.
A final note: the generally accepted threshold for running with your dog in the warmer months is 85 degrees Fahrenheit. Anything hotter than that can do damage to their sensitive paws. Good luck and have fun out there!