How to Train Your Dog to Run With You

If you are an avid runner and dog parent, the idea of ​​tying your four-legged friend to a leash and banging on the sidewalk together can seem like a lot of fun. And it could be! Plus, it’s a good way for both of you to exercise and stay fit – which is important given that about 55% of dogs in the US have few mongrels (if this 2019 survey of pet owners and veterinarians can be trusted).

However, there are a few things to know before you and your furry friend step out on the trail or sidewalk. For starters, not every dog ​​is a good candidate for running, especially long distance runs. And even if your puppy is built to be a great runner, there are a few things you’ll want to teach him to keep your walks smoother.

First things first: talk to your veterinarian

While you probably know your dog quite well and are in tune with her or her individual cues, dogs cannot tell us exactly when they are feeling bad or in pain. This is why it is recommended that you take Fido to the vet and get a medical report before starting any training regimen.

Another note: if your dog is a puppy, most veterinarians advise refraining from trying to teach him how to run until they are 18 months old. Their bones are not yet fully developed, making them prone to injury, says Russell Hartstein, coach, CEO and owner of the Los Angeles Center for Care for Dogs Fun Paw Care , Center for the care of dogs and their training.

But if your dog has been to the vet and is in great shape and is at least 18 months old, then it can be the perfect running companion for you. Read to get started.

Get your supplies in order

First, you will probably need a hands-free leash that allows you to move your arms like you would on any other run.

Warning from Hartstein: Never use a choke chain, serrated collar, or shock collar when running with your dog – the risk of injury is too high if you need to stop abruptly for any reason (or if your dog suddenly sees a squirrel – he just has to chase).

His recommendation: Use a flat martingale collar or harness like this . According to GearJunkie.com , a rear-mounted harness will probably be your best option because it allows your dog to “run without obstacles.”

Other equipment you may need:

• collar or leash with reflector for night jogging so riders and cyclists can see you are approaching
• a bag that can be worn around the waist that stores treats
• extra poop bags

Think about the cue

“This is a signal or command to alert your dog to a change in pace, so you don’t just jerk it on the leash,” Hartstein says. The signal can be anything – for example, the American Kennel Club (AKC) suggests Run or Let’s Go – as long as it is new and not something your dog associates with another team. You can also use some kind of verbal cue to tell them when to slow down (for example, “stop” or “hey”).

Start slowly

Even if you’re a seasoned runner , you probably remember learning to run by alternating walking and running intervals. While there is no exact equivalent for dogs, “starting at a slow, gradual pace is the default when teaching any dog ​​a new behavior,” Hartstein says. Try to start by walking on a free leash, ie when your dog walks beautifully next to you on a leash, rather than pulling it forward or pulling it forward, for 5-10 minutes. Like humans, it is important for your dog to warm up before a serious run; Plus, it will also give your furry friend the ability to destroy and sniff multiple trees, flowers, or fences (also known as Doggy Facebook).

Once you’ve decided which lines to use, it’s time to pick up the pace – slowly. To teach a cue stick, “alternate between short periods of jogging or jogging at your normal walking pace,” says Jerry Klein, AKC’s chief veterinarian. Just signal just before speeding up and then reward your dog when he hurries to catch up. Likewise, do the same when it’s time to slow down – signal Fido and then reward him when he does it right.

It will take several weeks for the dog to develop its stamina. Start off with short runs interspersed with vigorous walking. Gradually reduce the time you spend walking while increasing your run.

Ready to move on to something a little more challenging? Try a 5K training plan for dogs only (yes, they do exist!). Runner’s World has some good options .

Pay attention

Any puppy parent knows that your dog loves you and wants you to be happy. To this end, some dogs do not wail that way when they are internally unhappy, which means that you need to keep an eye on your four-legged friend and make sure that everything is in order with him.

Hartstein notes that a dog that loves to run with you will be motivated, enthusiastic, and ready to run. On the other hand, if your dog whines, cries, limps, hesitates, or his tail or ears are drawn in, he may not like it. “It’s important to remember that every dog ​​is different and its behavior depends on the context,” says Hartstein. “As a parent, you know your dog best. Is your dog’s behavior consistent with the context you are in? Does she exhibit “normal” behaviors or is there something abnormal in her behavior before, during, or after you run with the dog? “

As soon as you notice that your dog is lagging slightly behind or is having a hard time keeping up, it is a sign that he is tired and may take advantage of the break.

Running in hot weather

Is today a hot day? Keep your runs short and enjoyable. “Dogs don’t think about stopping drinking,” says Gary Richter, a California veterinarian and Rover consultant. “When he is left alone, he may know to stop and rest, but when he is with you, he will try to keep up, even if it is harmful to him.” Frequent short water breaks for Fido will help you ensure that he is not dehydrated and also give you the opportunity to make sure that he is enjoying himself.

One important note : While it is important for your dog to stay hydrated (and so are you!), Do not allow him or her to take large sips of water if possible, because this may increase the risk of swallowing too much air and Dr. Klein warns against bloating. Instead, give him or her small meals at a time and make sure there is at least a 10-15 minute “cooling period like a racehorse,” he says. Waiting for you to get home to feed your dog will also reduce the chances of bloating (in a similar vein, don’t run around with Fido right after he has eaten his breakfast).

Also, remember that the paw pads are very sensitive and hot asphalt or concrete can burn your dog’s feet. You can soften this with boots or paw wax, but it’s best to double-check if it’s safe for your furry friend to join you. You’ve probably heard of the seven second rule : Place the back of your hand on concrete for seven seconds. If it’s too hot for your hand, then your dog is too hot, so you should leave it at home or put on boots, but even if you choose booties, try to run short. “In hot or humid weather, I wouldn’t run long, fast or fast,” adds Hartstein.

Red flag signs to watch out for

Heatstroke is the biggest one, says Dr. Klein. If your dog has red gums, is breathing heavily, cannot catch its breath, drooling, vomiting, or bloody diarrhea, try to cool it down as best you can by wrapping it in a damp towel or even pouring out some water. his body and take him to the nearest veterinarian immediately.

Running in cold weather

Cold is generally a more serious problem for short-haired dogs who may need to wear a jacket ( this Weatherbeeta has a 4.5-star rating on Amazon ), but paving salt and ice can burn your dog’s paw pads. , therefore, it is recommended to put on ankle boots before leaving.

Can every dog ​​be a runner?

May be! But some dogs are marathoners and others are sprinters. Working dog breeds – such as Malamutes and German Shepherds – love exercise. Other breeds that love running: Golden Retrievers, Lab technicians, Wizlas, German Shorthaired Pointers, Poodles and Weimaraners.

Dr. Richter notes that small dogs are better suited for short distances as they need to take multiple steps to keep up with human steps. And brachycephalic dogs, also known as short-nosed dogs such as pugs, French Bulldogs, and Boston Terriers, breathe poorly, which means running can quickly become dangerous for them (especially in hot weather).

However, “All dogs are individual and I have worked with many German Shepherds and many energetic English Bulldogs,” says Hartstein. As with humans, it all comes down to knowing your dog, starting slowly, and paying attention. Soon, your furry friend will find his way.