How to Run with Your Dog: Training Tips, Health & Safety, and Essential Gear
As a certified sports nutrition and ultrarunning coach, my formal background isn’t in dog training, but outside of coaching, I do have one in professional horse training—a skillset I’ve found surprisingly transferable to working with dogs. Over the years, I’ve owned and run with several types of dogs, from energetic trail hounds to laid-back hiking companions. I’ve often searched for comprehensive resources on running with dogs but found the information scattered across various sources. This article aims to gather all the essential tips, training advice, and gear recommendations in one place to help you and your dog get started on the right paw. Now let’s dig in! (Sorry not sorry for the puns).
Is Your Dog Ready to Run?
Before lacing up your shoes and grabbing the leash, it’s important to assess whether your dog is physically ready for running.
Age: Puppies should not start running long distances until they’re fully grown, typically between 12-18 months. Running too soon can strain their developing bones and joints. If you are unsure whether your dog is ready, please consult a veterinarian.
Breed: Some breeds are natural runners, like Border Collies and Retrievers, while others, such as Bulldogs or Pugs, may struggle due to respiratory issues. It’s important to consider your dog’s breed-specific needs before starting a running regimen.
Fitness Level: Start slow if your dog isn’t used to vigorous activity. Gradually build up their endurance by combining walking with short bursts of running, increasing the distance over time.
Training Tips for Running with Your Dog
Training your dog to run with you is all about patience and consistency, drawing on principles similar to those I’ve applied in my horse training.
Start Slow: Begin with brisk walks or short runs to help your dog adjust to the routine. Gradually build up distance as your dog gains fitness.
Leash Training: Leash manners are crucial. Teach your dog to run beside you without pulling, using positive reinforcement such as treats or praise to encourage the desired behavior. There are some dogs that prefer to run in front of you, but this is more Canicross style where the dog is usually attached via a elastic waist leash but runs in front of you. Know your pet, and if this is a tough decision, find a reputable trainer who can help you.
Consistency is Key: Dogs thrive on routine, so try to run at the same time each day. This creates a predictable schedule for both you and your dog.
Pacing: Dogs often sprint in bursts of energy. Use consistent verbal cues or hand signals to teach them to maintain a steady pace alongside you.
Commands for Control: Essential commands such as “heel,” “slow,” and “leave it” are critical for maintaining control, especially around distractions like other animals or busy roads. I even taught my German Shepherd ‘left’ and ‘right’ for upcoming turns! These quickly became valuable commands.
Sidewalk and Trail Etiquette When Running with Your Dog
Running with your dog can be a great bonding experience, but practicing proper etiquette ensures that everyone, from fellow runners to local wildlife, can enjoy the path ahead. Whether you're on a busy sidewalk or a peaceful trail, keeping your dog under control and being mindful of others is key. Here’s how to practice good sidewalk and trail etiquette while running with your dog:
Leash Your Dog: Always keep your dog on a leash unless you're in an off-leash designated area. Leash laws exist to keep both your dog and others safe. Use a hands-free leash to make running more comfortable for both of you while ensuring you maintain control over your dog in busy areas.
Yield to Other Pedestrians and Runners: Be courteous and yield the right of way to others on sidewalks and trails. If you encounter other walkers, runners, or cyclists, keep your dog close to you and step aside if necessary to allow them to pass easily. Teach your dog to sit or stay calmly when other people or dogs pass by to avoid any unwanted interactions.
Respect Wildlife and Public Spaces: Whether you're running through a park, trail, or residential area, it's important to prevent your dog from chasing wildlife or wandering into restricted spaces. Keep your dog on the trail or sidewalk to avoid disturbing natural habitats and ensure the safety of local wildlife. If you are in areas where there are poisonous snakes, leashing will also minimize encounters.
Pick Up After Your Dog: Always carry poop bags and clean up after your dog, no matter where you're running. Leaving dog waste behind on sidewalks or trails is not only unsanitary, but it can also harm the environment and disrupt the experience for others. Be responsible and properly dispose of waste in designated bins.
Minimize Barking and Distractions: Excessive barking can disturb other pedestrians, runners, and even wildlife. If your dog tends to bark at other people, animals, or loud noises, work on training commands to reduce barking or avoid areas with heavy foot traffic. A well-behaved dog makes for a more enjoyable run for everyone.
Stay on the Path: Always keep your dog on the designated path or sidewalk. Running off-trail or allowing your dog to stray onto private property or into protected areas can damage the environment and create safety risks. Stick to marked routes to protect local ecosystems and respect property boundaries.
Know Your Dog's Limits: Choose routes that match your dog’s fitness level and abilities. Not all dogs are suited for long runs, steep inclines, or crowded sidewalks. Pay attention to signs of fatigue, such as slowing down or excessive panting, and adjust your pace or distance accordingly.
Health and Safety Considerations
Running with your dog is rewarding, but their health and safety must always come first.
Hydration is Key: Just as with humans, staying hydrated is vital for dogs, particularly on long runs. Carry a portable water bottle and collapsible bowl so your dog can drink when needed. If your dog enjoys drinking from hoses, a running vest with a water bladder might be more convenient; you can simply squirt the water into the dogs mouth! (This is what I use)!
Weather Awareness: Dogs are more susceptible to heat than humans, so avoid running in extreme temperatures. Run in the early morning or late evening during hot months, and be mindful of hot pavement, which can burn your dog’s paws. When the air temperature is 85F or hotter, the pavement can easily reach 135F in the sun. When it’s 70-79F the pavement can reach 125F.
Paw Protection: Running on rough surfaces or hot trails can damage your dog’s paw pads. Consider using dog booties if running on uneven or hot terrain to prevent injuries.
Rest Days: Just like athletes, dogs need recovery days to avoid overexertion and injury. Make sure to schedule rest days between runs to let your dog’s muscles recover.
Regular Veterinary Checkups: It’s essential to ensure your dog is healthy before starting a running routine. Schedule regular vet visits to monitor their health, especially if they’re older or have any health concerns. If you are trail running or hiking with your dog, consider additional vaccines and medications for your pup:
Leptospirosis
A yearly vaccine for dogs that spend time outdoors, especially on walks, hikes, or at the beach. Leptospirosis is a bacterial disease spread by wildlife urine that can affect the liver and kidneys, and can also be spread to humans.
Bordetella
A vaccine that may be recommended every six months for dogs that frequent daycare facilities or outdoor off-leash dog areas. Bordetella is the main bacterial component in kennel cough, which can progress into pneumonia if left untreated. If you frequent any dog-popular trails or dog parks this should be considered.
Lyme disease
A vaccine that may be recommended for dogs that spend time outside in areas known for having a lot of ticks, which can transmit the disease.
Heartworm
A monthly prevention medication that is recommended for all dogs, even those that are inside only. Heartworm disease is transmitted by mosquitos and has been diagnosed in all fifty states.
Canine Influenza
A vaccine that may be recommended for dogs that frequent parks, go to daycare, or are kenneled. Canine Influenza is a highly contagious virus that is transmitted through aerosolized viral particles or direct contact with infected saliva and mucous.
Rattlesnake Vaccine
A vaccine useful for dogs who frequent rattlesnake wilderness. It can help increase a dog's chances of survival if bitten by a rattlesnake. The vaccine works by stimulating the dog's immune system to produce antibodies that help defend against the venom.
Essential Gear for Running with Your Dog
The right gear can make running with your dog more enjoyable and safe for both of you. Here are some must-haves:
Hands-Free Leash: A hands-free leash is ideal for running, allowing you to maintain a natural stride without having to use your arms and hands to hold a leash. Choose one with a bungee section to absorb any sudden pulls.
Harness Over Collar: Using a harness distributes pressure evenly across your dog’s body and reduces strain on their neck. Look for a harness designed for running to ensure it’s comfortable and secure. If your dog works and responds well in a collar versus a harness, then use that instead. Also, some dogs need training-specific collars, such as no-pull options, in which case you should use whatever is going to work best for the both of you.
Reflective Gear for Visibility: If you run in low-light conditions, ensure both you and your dog are visible with reflective leashes, harnesses, or vests. There’s even special collars and lights your dog can wear!
Portable Water Solutions: Carry a collapsible dog bowl and water bottle to keep your dog hydrated during your run, or consider using a pack with a bladder as mentioned earlier.
Dog First Aid Kit: When running or hiking trails, especially long distances you should carry an emergency first aid kit for your dog in case they get injured. And if your dog wears a pack, they can carry their own kit! Here’s what to include:
Sterile gauze pads and rolls
Medical tape and self-adhering bandages
Antiseptic wipes and irrigation syringe
Scissors with rounded tips
Tweezers for removing splinters or ticks
Dog-safe antihistamine (Benadryl)
Antibiotic ointment
Hydrocortisone cream for bites or rashes
Digital thermometer
Nail clippers and Quick Stop powder
Disposable gloves
Blanket or towel
Cooling vest or bandana
Dog boots or protective wax
Emergency contact information
Dog Booties (Optional): For running on rough or hot surfaces, booties can protect your dog’s paws from injury.
Cooling Vests (Optional): For summer running, a cooling vest can help keep your dog comfortable and prevent overheating. What are cooling vests?
Cooling vests for dogs are a fantastic tool to help regulate your dog's body temperature, especially during outdoor activities in warm weather. There are several types of cooling vests, and each type offers unique benefits. Choosing the right one depends on your dog’s needs and the conditions you’ll be running or hiking in. Let’s take a look at the most common types:
Evaporative Cooling Vests: The most popular type of dog cooling vest works using evaporative cooling, similar to how humans sweat to cool down. You wet the vest with water, and as the water evaporates, it pulls heat away from your dog’s body. This method is particularly effective when there’s a breeze, enhancing the cooling process. These vests are perfect for walks, hikes, or any outdoor activity under the sun.
Sun Reflective Cooling Vests: Reflective cooling vests use materials designed to reflect sunlight and UV rays away from your dog, reducing the amount of heat they absorb. While this method doesn’t directly cool your dog down, it slows the rate at which they heat up, making it a useful passive cooling solution, especially in bright, sunny conditions.
Phase-Changing Material (PCM) Cooling Vests: PCM cooling vests are a more advanced option that uses Phase-Changing Materials, which absorb and release heat by changing from solid to liquid form. These vests help regulate your dog’s temperature by absorbing excess heat as your dog warms up. After use, they can be "recharged" by cooling them down, ready for the next activity. PCM vests are particularly helpful for dogs involved in intense activities or in environments where preventing heatstroke is critical. However, they can be heavier than traditional vests and require monitoring to maintain their cooling effect.
Tips for a Successful Run with Your Dog
Warm Up & Cool Down: Start with a brisk walk to warm up your dog’s muscles and finish with a cool-down walk to help them recover after the run.
Be Mindful of Bathroom Breaks: Dogs may need to stop for a bathroom break, so always carry poop bags and allow for these brief stops.
Practice Good Sidewalk and Trail Etiquette: be courteous and yield the right of way, and keep your dog close or step aside. Teach your dog to sit calmly and wait as people or dogs pass. Pick up after your dog.
Watch for Signs of Fatigue: If your dog starts to slow down, pant excessively, or lag behind, it’s time to take a break. Don’t push your dog beyond their limits, especially during long or hot runs.
Awareness of Surroundings: Be aware of hazards like broken glass, sharp rocks, or unfamiliar animals. Stay alert to ensure both you and your dog remain safe during the run.
Running with your dog can be one of the most fulfilling and fun ways to stay active and bond with your pet. By following proper training techniques, paying attention to your dog’s health and safety, and investing in the right gear, you can set yourselves up for a successful and enjoyable running partnership. So, lace up your running shoes, grab your dog’s leash, and hit the road or trail for an adventure that will benefit both of you physically and mentally.
