I like to walk the dogs. I like to walk these days for exercise – both mine and the dogs’ – but back in the day I ran. And Spike ran too, until he got too old.
Dogs are great running companions when they realize the objective of the outing is not all about them. In other words, a running outing is not a walk where they can sniff every leaf and pee on every mailbox.
Not all dogs like to run or would make great running companions. Here are a few factors to consider if you are thinking of running with your dog.
Dog Breed
If your dog is a potential running companion will firstly depend on its breed. Honestly, depending on your running ambitions, most breeds of dog, providing it’s in relatively good shape, will be a potential running mate.
Of course, if you are an iron man and you’re running an average 5-minute mile training pace – your short-legged Whestie is probably not keeping up.
Short-nosed breeds like Shi-Tzu’s and Pugs probably shouldn’t run at all, and especially not in hot or humid conditions. These dogs are known as a brachycephalic dog has a shorter snout which causes the airway to be shorter, which means all the parts that make up the airway get pushed closer together and breathing problems can result. Some examples of short-nosed breeds are Bulldogs, Pugs, Boston terriers, Shih-Tzus, Lhasa Apsos, Pit Bull Terriers, Chow Chow, Mastiffs, Boxers, and Pekingese.
But a longer-legged Lab, Husky, Shepherd can probably sustain a good pace for a good training run.
Dog’s Condition
Run with your dog if your dog is healthy and not carrying excess weight. In the case of an over-weight dog, a daily walk is the best bet for a healthy activity.
Also if your dog suffers from joint issues, pounding the pavement is not recommended. Wait until your puppy is older before running with it too as their growth plates can be susceptible to injury. A vet will be able to tell you at an annual appointment whether your dog is a good candidate for a running companion, especially if it is getting up there in age.
Pace
Don’t assume dogs can just naturally go out and run 5km easily. Some would be fine and could manage double that without batting an eyelid. But a lot of dogs are like us and need to ease into an exercise regime. Need to warm-up muscles beforehand and build endurance and fitness over time.
Temperament
The good running companion must first be a good walking companion and understand the dynamic and expectation between you on one end of the leash and it on the other. You don’t want to be tripping over the dog on your run. The dog must bet trained to the extent it will obey commands both on and off the leash.
The Right Kit
Whether you use a leash or harness will depend on what you and the dog are comfortable with. A harness may well restrict shoulder movement so keep an eye out for that. Most serious runners who run with their dogs use some form of hands-free leash and waist belt.
One of the best hands-free running leashes on the market is the Kurgo Quantum Leash. It can be converted into 6 different leashes and leads just with a simple Carabiner adjustment. It can switch from a 6-foot lead to a shoulder or waist leash for hands-free use, and to a double dog walker. It has a floating padded handle for comfort and support.
Conclusion
Running with your dog has profound benefits – both physical and mental for both of you. Particularly a high-energy dog that craves stimulation – it is almost an essential daily activity. Also, destructive dogs will benefit tremendously – channeling their boredom and destructive behaviors into an enriching and stimulating action.
But at the end of the day, run or walk – just get out and do it! For both of you!