Have you ever wondered about your relationship with your dog? Is it strong enough with you being at work most of the day? Is going on short walks only stimulating enough? Well, how about including your dog in your weekly routines, like running? Running with your dog can provide much more than a physical workout.
BENEFITS OF RUNNING WITH YOUR DOG
It’s the ideal opportunity to strengthen bonds, increase fitness, and satisfy their dog training and mental stimulation needs. Whether you’re an experienced runner, or you’re just starting, taking your buddy with you can be incredibly beneficial.
How To Take Your Dog Running with You
If you’ve started to wonder how to take your dog running with you, you’re in the right place. Read this guide as we explore the benefits of running with your dog and beyond. The benefits of running with your dog are endless.
We’re going to highlight the biggest ones:
Improving the Physical Health of Both of You
Running can be recognized as not only an important exercise to keep you fit, but it also keeps your dog in healthy condition. Like humans, dogs need constant exercise to keep their bodies active, healthy, and in proper shape.
They need to run to maintain their body’s desired healthy weight, strengthen their cardiovascular system, help their growth plates development, and strengthen joints and muscles.
This could also help you stay on track as having a running partner would most likely ensure you won’t forget your fitness program.
Strengthening Your Bond
Shared activities create lasting memories. These are some of the most important aspects of relationships. Run with your dog! Gain confidence and reliability. The dog will gradually learn to follow your running trail, stick closely to you, follow your pace, and respond to your cues.
Important Stimulation for Your Dog
Running will bring your dog new sights, new smells, and sounds; all the things necessary for proper mental enrichment. It is also about filling up calories with energy. It fills in all the senses of your dog. A disciplined dog would hardly develop behavioral problems such as gnawing, barking, or digging.
Emotional Wellness
Running, both for dogs and humans, releases endorphins, the so-called “happy hormones“. It reduces stress, anxiety, and perhaps even depression. After a full day of hard work, a trail walk with your dog can prove to be very healing.
TIPS FOR RUNNING AND JOGGING WITH DOGGIES
We went over the benefits, you’re all warmed up to go on your first run with your furry friend, but now what? How to start running with your dog? Here are some doggie running tips!
Determine Your Dog’s Health and Its Breed Suitability
All dogs aren’t born runners. Examples of breeds that are enthusiastic about running a long distance are Border Collies, Huskies, and Golden Retrievers. On the contrary, short-nose breeds, e.g., Bulldogs and Pugs, may have a difficult time trying to breathe while they are strongly exercised.
Additionally, at what age can you start running with your dog? Consult a veterinarian before you start running, especially with older or overweight dogs or any dog with health issues in general. The same goes for age limitations, you should estimate, in consultation with a vet, at what age you should stop running with your dog. You want to spend time with your best bud, but you must do so safely.
Start Slowly and Steady
Endurance, like that of humans, is built up slowly in dogs. Gradually increase the distance and speed until your dog becomes familiar with running. Too much exercise can result in injury or heat exhaustion.
Gear for Running With Your Dog
Functioning harnesses specially designed for running will be the best choice. With a harness, you have control and can avoid accidentally hurting your dog’s neck, like with a traditional collar. Even better, invest in a hands-free leash. This leash goes around your waist, freeing up your hands while running, while giving the pup freedom to move around you.
Stick To Pet-Friendly Routes
Select a safe path or trail that is dog-friendly. Avoid busy places, and risky places that may injure your dog’s paws. Common good choices include parks, nature trails, or quiet neighborhoods.
Teach Basic Commands Beforehand
Running can be tricky, so it’s best to teach your dog some basic obedience commands like heel, leave it, and stop. This way, your first pup jog will be a success. Good basic canine training will keep your pet by your side, so you can actually end up running the trail instead of running after your distracted pet.
SAFETY CONSIDERATIONS OF RUNNING WITH YOUR DOG
Before you go on your first pup jog, it’s important to check several things off your list:
Weather Check Before Running with Your Dog
The most important thing is to monitor the weather conditions that can be extreme for dogs.
For example, dogs that easily overheat should not be running at the hottest times of the day in the summer. If you’re running in summertime, run either very early in the morning or very late in the evening. For winter, there should also be concerns. It’s important to know that cold weather may not be as comfortable for some dogs as it is for others. And don’t forget to check for potential frostbites or irritation on their paws.
Think like this: anything that would be uncomfortable for you while you run is more than likely to be uncomfortable for your dog.
Hydration Is Key
You already know to always carry a water bottle for yourself, but your dog should have one too. You can offer them water when you take breaks, but keep your eye out for situations where they seem like they’re getting tired. Carry portable dog water bottles or collapsible bowls to keep them hydrated while you’re on the move.
Inspect Their Paws After Running with Your Dog
Most dogs are shoeless and their paws can get cut, irritated, and burned when you go for a run. Inspect their paws at the end of every run and avoid places with hot asphalt and rough ground. Think about investing in doggie booties if your dog runs outside often.
Signs of Fatigue and Discomfort
Pups can’t talk, so you need to learn to read your dog’s body language. They can’t ask you to stop or take a break, so pay attention: If they are staying behind, panting, or showing any signs of discomfort, stop and rest. After resting, start by spending a couple of minutes walking first. If you see that your dog isn’t so keen about the run, try walking it off and cutting the run short. Dogs also need rest days.
HOW TO ENJOY RUNNING WITH YOUR DOG?
Your dog jogs can become enjoyable rather quickly. You’ll keep wondering why you didn’t start sooner.
Keep Your Routes Interesting
Engage your running dog with different trails and bring them around different environments. Different smells and sights can be stimulating and keep your trail running fun.
Encourage Play
All dogs love games! Mix your short sprints with breaks for playing fetch with your dog and keep it enjoyable and relaxed when running.
Rewarding Good Behavior
The big question still persists: How to train your dog to go running with you? Take some treats along with you from the first day, so you can reward them. Make sure to shower them with praises for good work during the run. If you keep it positive, your dog will always be motivated and ready to join you.
Cool Down Together After Running with Your Dog
After your run, take time to cool down. Walking for a couple of minutes has many benefits. This way the dog’s heart rate gets back to normal. Make sure that once you cool down, you give your dog some water. Some post-run stretches would also do both of you good.
WRAP-UP
Running with your dog is a great way to keep you active, build a relationship, and increase life enjoyment for both of you. Start slow, get the appropriate gear, and make sure safety is a high priority. Soon you’ll have a routine that benefits you both. Whether it’s trails or just up and down the block, each run is a chance for you and your four-legged friend to bond and make memories.
So, lace up your running shoes, pick up your running leash, and hit the trails with your best buddy- it’s time to create a healthier, happier life together!
Doggozila Magazine Healthy Tips for You and Your Dogs
Well, if running it’s not something for you, perhaps hiking with your dog or maybe on a dog biking would be more appealing! The great outdoors will keep you and your pup healthy and you will make a tons of memories while doing this!
