Charlotte Foster
Are you a keen runner and your four-legged friend can never get enough exercise? Then go jogging with your dog! In this article, you will find out how to train your faithful companion to become a running partner and what you should bear in mind when doing so.
Jogging with a dog: is that even possible?
Yes, jogging with dogs is a fantastic pastime for both animal and owner – if the conditions are right. Not every dog is suitable for running and of course you can’t just start running either. As with everything, the four-legged friend needs some training when jogging so that he can get used to the new running situation.
Sport with a dog: When is it possible to walk with the dog?
Basically, you should never go jogging with a puppy. The effort is too great, even over short distances, since the growing dog’s physical condition, muscles, and bone structure are not sufficiently developed. Excessive stress can be detrimental to your dog’s development. Veterinarians, therefore, recommend taking your dog jogging from the age of about one year, or two years for large breeds. Even old animals are not suitable as partners for running training.
Dog and jogging: Which dog breeds are suitable as running partners?
There are breeds whose physique is usually absolutely unsuitable for running fast over long distances. This includes small dogs like Pugs, French Bulldogs, and Dachshunds, as well as large, heavy-weight breeds like Saint Bernards and Newfoundlands. It is best not to go jogging with dogs that have a lot of furs, a long back, and high body weight. Real marathon runners, on the other hand, are dog breeds like
- Border Collie
- Dalmatian
- Husky
- Australian Shepherd
- Weimaraner
- Jack Russel Terrier
- English Setters
These dog breeds need a lot of exercises and can’t wait to run with you.
How do you get a dog used to walk?
Before running, you should first consult your vet and ask if your dog is a suitable running partner. If the doctor gives the green light, you can start training. A prerequisite for relaxed runs is that your dog is obedient and listens to your commands with absolute certainty.
Keep the following points in mind when training:
- Before the jog, your dog should have some time to sniff and do its business.
- Take it slow at first: for the first few weeks, decide to do smaller laps, stopping every five minutes at first. Choose a slow to moderate pace. Gradually increase the pace and distance.
- Reward your four-legged friend either after each section or at the end with a treat and praise him extensively.
- Pay attention to the needs of your companion: pee and taster breaks are a must!
- When jogging with your dog, use a longer, loose leash so that you and your four-legged friend have enough space.
- If the dog walks next to you without a leash, it should be available at all times.
The weather conditions are also important if you want to go jogging with your dog: the four-legged friend cannot tolerate extreme heat or freezing cold – so only take him with you when the temperatures are moderate. The surface also plays a role: Dogs prefer to walk on forest or field paths. Asphalt is very hard and gets uncomfortably warm in the summer months.
Tip:
Your dog also needs the right equipment for jogging: special jogging leashes and a matching chest harness with soft padding are recommended for jogging with a dog. Illuminated harnesses ensure visibility and safety in the dark.
How do I know if the dog is tired from running?
Your running training should always be tailored to your four-legged friend: adjust your pace and distance to the dog. Warning signs that the dog is overwhelmed
- strong, fast, and persistent panting,
- a lag of the dog,
- pulled back lips,
- refusal of the dog as well
- limp after running.
Pay attention to the first symptoms of tiredness and then stop immediately. A dog that is regularly overwhelmed will be less likely to walk around with you.