How to Start Running with Your Dog: A Complete Guide to Benefits, Training, and Progression
Running with your dog can be one of the most rewarding activities you both enjoy. Not only does it benefit your health, but it also creates a stronger bond between you and your dog. But before you start pounding the pavement together, there are some important things to know. In this article, we’ll cover how dogs benefit from running, what criteria your dog should meet, and a step-by-step training plan to get started and progress safely.
1. Beyond Physical Exercise: How Do Dogs Benefit from Running with Their Owners?
Running with your dog is more than just a way to burn calories. In fact, it provides numerous physical and mental benefits for dogs:
Mental Stimulation: Running together engages your dog mentally, helping to reduce anxiety, boredom, and destructive behavior. It gives them an outlet for their energy, which can result in a calmer, more balanced pet.
Improved Behavior: Regular exercise, especially running, helps reduce hyperactivity and excess energy, making dogs more manageable at home. It can also address issues like leash-pulling, barking, or jumping.
Socialization: During runs, dogs can encounter different environments, sounds, and other people or dogs, which can help them become more confident and well-adjusted.
Better Bonding: Running together strengthens the bond between you and your dog. The shared experience fosters trust and companionship, which enhances your overall relationship.
Physical Health: Obviously, regular exercise helps dogs maintain a healthy weight and supports their cardiovascular health. It can also help prevent obesity-related diseases and improve joint flexibility, especially in older dogs.
2. What Criteria Does a Dog Need to Meet to Be Able to Run with Their Owner?
Before you start running with your dog, it’s crucial to ensure they are physically and mentally ready. Not all dogs are suited for running, and it’s essential to consider their age, fitness level, and training needs.
a) Age: How Old Should a Dog Be? How Old is Too Old?
Puppies: Puppies should not start running until they are physically mature, usually around 12-18 months, depending on the breed. This is because their joints and bones are still developing, and excessive running can lead to injury or long-term damage. High-energy breeds like Border Collies or Labrador Retrievers may be ready sooner, while larger breeds like Great Danes may need more time.
Adult Dogs: Most adult dogs (2-7 years old) are typically the best candidates for running. Their muscles, joints, and cardiovascular systems are fully developed, making them more capable of handling the physical demands of running.
Senior Dogs: Older dogs (7+ years) can still enjoy running if they are in good health and have been physically active throughout their lives. However, it’s essential to consult with your vet before starting, as some senior dogs may have arthritis or other health issues that make running painful or dangerous.
b) Baseline Fitness
Your dog should have a basic level of fitness before starting a running regimen. If your dog is sedentary or overweight, it’s essential to gradually build up their fitness with walks and shorter jogs before jumping into longer runs.
c) What Training or Skills Do They Need Before They’re Ready?
Before starting a running routine, your dog should be comfortable with the following:
Leash Training: Your dog should be well-behaved on a leash, not pulling or darting off in random directions. Proper leash training is essential for safety.
Basic Obedience: Commands like “sit,” “stay,” “come,” and “heel” are important, as they will help you manage your dog during the run. If your dog isn’t yet well-trained, focus on obedience training before introducing running.
Running in Different Environments: Your dog should be comfortable running on different surfaces (pavement, grass, trails) and in varying conditions (weather, crowds, noises).
3. What Kind of Training Plan Would You Recommend for Someone Who Wants to Start Running with Their Dog?
Starting slowly and building up gradually is essential to avoid overexerting your dog and yourself. Here’s a simple, progressive plan to help you and your dog safely get into running.
a) How Far Should You Go at First?
Start with a short, easy pace. If you’ve been walking regularly with your dog, you can begin by alternating walking and running. For the first couple of weeks, keep the runs short:
Week 1-2: Begin with a 5-10 minute walk to warm up, then alternate 1 minute of running with 4 minutes of walking. Repeat this for 20-30 minutes.
Week 3-4: Increase the running time gradually. Try running for 2 minutes, then walking for 3 minutes. Keep the total workout under 30 minutes for the first few weeks.
b) What’s a Good Goal to Work Up to?
Weekly Distance/Time Goal: Aim for 3-4 runs per week to start, with a total weekly time of 1.5 to 2 hours. Over time, you can aim to increase your total running time.
Goal for Distance: If you want to focus on distance, a reasonable goal might be 1-3 miles per run, depending on your dog’s breed and fitness level. For example, a smaller or older dog may do well with shorter distances, while a larger, more athletic dog could comfortably handle longer runs.
Gradual Progression: Progress should be gradual, adding no more than 10-20% additional distance or time per week. The goal is to avoid injury and ensure your dog stays comfortable throughout the process.
c) What Signs Should Pet Parents Look for to Know They Can Progress?
You should never push your dog too hard. Instead, monitor their behavior and health for signs that they’re ready to move to the next stage of training.
Positive Signs: If your dog seems energetic and enthusiastic during and after runs, with no signs of limping, exhaustion, or excessive panting, they’re likely ready to increase their intensity or distance.
Signs of Overexertion: If your dog is panting excessively, slowing down during runs, or seems stiff or sore after runs, you may need to scale back. Give them extra rest time and reduce the distance before progressing.
After-Run Recovery: Make sure your dog is recovering well after each run. You should see them bouncing back to their normal self within a few hours of the run. If recovery takes longer, it might be time to decrease the intensity.
Running with your dog is an enriching, healthy activity that benefits both you and your pet. By starting slowly, paying attention to your dog’s physical condition, and gradually increasing your running sessions, you’ll create a sustainable routine that keeps both of you in great shape. Remember to always listen to your dog’s needs, consult your vet if necessary, and most importantly, enjoy the time spent together!
