Running With Your Dog

Do you wish you had a willing, eager, and able running partner, ready at a moment's notice to run wherever, and for however long you choose?  If you've got a dog, chances are that partner is right in your backyard.  Dogs need exercise just like us humans do--maybe even more.  According to veterinarian Elizabeth Lund's findings in 2006, published in JARVM, 34% of the canine population in the US is either overweight or obese.  Looks like our sedentary nature has spread to our pets.

If you are interested in bringing your dog along on your runs, but worried about its stamina, know there is no general rule for how long and how far a dog can run.  Each breed is different, but they all are healthier and happier when they get exercise.  Medium to large working/hunting dogs make great long distance running partners, but don't count out the small varieties.  A Jack Russell Terrier at 15" high, is small, but can run for 10 miles or more.  If you're curious about how far to push your pet, check out A Breed Apart published by Runner's World in 2010.  You'll find a helpful list of dog breeds along with what distances and types of running they are built for, whether it be running in the heat or cold, on crowded trails, short or fast runs, long or short distances.

When first beginning a running routine with your dog, it's important to start out slow.  Run a couple of miles the first few times, then work your way up to longer distances.  If your dog normally spends most of its time on grass and dirt, its pads may need to get acclimated to the hard surfaces of concrete, so check the pads after every run until sufficient callouses form.  Puppies shouldn't go on long runs until at least 12 months old.  Until that time, their bones are still growing.  The constant jarring from a distance run could damage joints, so wait until your pet is fully grown.  Heat can be tough on dogs too, so avoid mid-day heat when you're training with your dog.  If your dog starts to act woozy, gets a dark red-colored tongue or gets thick ropey saliva, stop immediately, get to a shaded area, and find some water.  No need to worry in cold weather--freezing temperatures may bother you, but your dog is running in fur, so he/she is just fine.

One more word to the wise--skip the retractable leash and use a short leather leash when running with your dog.  Keeping your dog in the formal heel position to your left--close-by and in control--will make things easier on you and everyone you pass.

Taking your dog with you on a run will not only give it the exercise it needs, but could also relieve destructive behavior.  You both will be happy campers when you're through.

LACE UP and grab the leash!