Exercising with a pet can be one of the most rewarding activities that an animal and its human companion can enjoy. For many people, running is one of the most popular forms of exercise to share with their pup. However, it is not always clear if running is actually good for a dog. In this blog post, we will be exploring the benefits and risks of running with your dog, so you can make an informed decision about the best way to keep your pup fit and healthy. Running can provide your pup with physical and mental stimulation, but it is important to keep in mind their age, breed, and specific medical needs when determining if running is an appropriate form of exercise. We will be discussing the necessary preparations that should be taken before going on a run with your pup as well as the signs to watch out for when running with your dog. By following these guidelines, you can ensure that your pup is safely reaping the rewards of running.
The Right Approach to Gear and Training
Keep your dog’s running gear as straightforward as you can for the same reasons that you keep your own equipment to a minimum. The more naturally your pet can move, the less equipment he needs to wear. Your pet only requires a collar or a back-clip harness connected to a fixed-length leash. Make sure your dog’s harness and collar fit properly and aren’t rubbing against anything before, during, and after a run. Retractable leashes should be avoided as they provide little control, especially when moving quickly, and they pose a risk to you, your dog, and other runners or pedestrians. Running hands-free is possible with leashes that clip around your waist, but they should only be used with well-behaved dogs who have some running experience. When you are out running in low light, reflective or light-up leashes and collars help make your dog visible. Most runners adhere to some sort of training regimen; for your dog to run safely, you should also do so. But while you work on developing your stamina and endurance, your dog needs to start with manners in order to be properly trained. Maintaining proper running form is difficult enough when you are running alone, but it becomes nearly impossible if your dog is pulling on the leash, which puts both of you at risk for injury. Make sure your dog understands how to walk on a loose leash before you start running with him. Start by teaching your dog to heel. Teach him to turn in response to a verbal cue once he is heeling. My dogs know to follow me when they hear the cue when I say “turn” and then turn either right or left. First, teach your dog to react to turns while out for a walk. Delivering a treat next to your leg as you change directions will encourage your pet to stay by your side. Your dog will benefit from cues like “jog,” “walk,” and “stop,” which can be used to let him know when your pace changes and prevent him from pulling on the leash or falling behind as you go faster and slower. Before you change your pace, wait a moment or two to give your dog a chance to adjust his speed appropriately. If you plan to run in a group or take part in a race, your dog should be well-socialized and at ease around both people and other dogs. Before you register your dog for a pet-friendly 5K, consult your veterinarian if your dog lacks manners around people or other dogs and consider enrolling in a positive reinforcement class to gain experience with this type of distraction.
Dogs must gradually increase their distance and speed just like people do. Start by alternating walking with short intervals of running. Your dog can gradually increase his distance and speed as he becomes more at ease running. Traditionally, it is recommended that runners increase their distance by no more than 10% per week; however, in his book Fitness Unleashed, my father, Dr. Dogs new to running should aim to increase their weekly mileage by about 5%, according to Marty Becker. Your dog’s body must adapt to longer runs just like yours does; for instance, paw pads need time to become tougher and develop calluses. If your dog runs too far without stopping to adjust, his paws might get rubbed raw. Because your dog cannot communicate verbally, keep an eye out for any signs that he needs to stop or slow down. Canines heat up quickly and frequently continue moving forward despite being hot or worn out. Your dog is less able to run in the heat because he is covered in fur and only sweats through his paws, not his skin. Dogs also primarily release heat through panting. Additionally, your dog may experience aches, injuries, equipment rubbing, or simply become too worn out to continue. Your dog has overdone it and needs to stop if he is panting excessively, having trouble breathing, or his normally pink tongue has taken on a blue tint. Call your veterinarian if stopping for a few minutes doesn’t work. Any type of shade or water may be sought after by dogs who are overheating. Consider slowing down the pace to a level your dog can handle if your pet lags behind, stops, or tries to lie down. Alternatively, you can call it a day and go get some rest and water.
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Dog owners should also consider their dog’s health, food intake, and weather beforehand.
Health is an obvious factor while deciding if your dog should run with you, as your dog may have an underlying condition, which can worsen with running, according to Health. Some dogs are also more prone to certain conditions than breeds, such German Shepherds, who are more prone to hip dysplasia than others. So, talking to your vet before taking them out with you is absolutely vital. Article continues below advertisement
According to Angi Aramburu, owner of Go Fetch Run in New York City, “a vet can let you know if there are any red flags and can provide advice about what’s safe and healthy for your individual dog in your individual surroundings.”
It’s also important to keep in mind that taking a dog for a run right after a substantial meal can result in fatal conditions like gastric dilatation and volvulus syndrome.
Extreme weather conditions are also strongly discouraged when running with a dog. If your dog is running on salted pavement without booties, below-freezing temperatures can result in hypothermia, frostbite, and salt poisoning, while excessive heat can result in conditions like heat stroke, dehydration, and paw damage. Article continues below advertisement.
Due to the smaller size of their respiratory tracts, these dogs overheat more quickly and have breathing problems. These dogs shouldn’t be allowed to run for very long periods of time.
For some dogs, both of these claims are true, while they are untrue for other dogs. There are numerous factors to take into account when deciding whether jogging is safe for your dog.
Strenuous physical activity can exacerbate your dog’s heart, respiratory, muscle, bone, and joint problems.
Use the five-second rule to determine whether the pavement is too hot for your dog and take frequent water breaks. If it’s too hot for you, it’s also too hot for your dog, so you have to hold the back of your hand on the pavement for five seconds.
Some breeds are genetically prone to developing these conditions. German Shepherds often suffer from hip dysplasia, for example. Particularly, your veterinarian should keep an eye out for these problems.
FAQ
Is it good to take your dog on runs?
The majority of veterinarians advise waiting until a dog is fully grown before engaging in any serious jogging—or, in Schwartz’s words, any “running other than puppy play”—to prevent developmental problems.
How much running is too much for a dog?
Generally speaking, your pet shouldn’t receive more than an hour’s worth of playtime or exercise per day, including walks. We must also be mindful of how many family members are walking or playing with our pet during the COVID-19 “stay at home” order, and for how long.
How far should you run with a dog?
Take your dog’s breed into account when determining how far to run. The typical dog can run between two and five miles, claims Sarah Wharton, proprietor of Oakland, California’s Marathon Dog Walking and Training.
Is running better for dogs than walking?
Dogs need to run in order to exercise, so simply walking alongside you at a human pace won’t do. Simply put, walking is not really exercising your dog.