6 Steps on How to Run with your Dog in 2022

Here are six steps to take before you go for a run with your pup.

People take advantage of their time off to hit the gym or run at home with friends and family. As time goes on, more people own dogs than ever before and they want to be by them while working out. 

Many runners might be wondering if these furry companions can come along for the ride!

The best way would probably depend on what type (or breeds) your pets fall under. Still, generally speaking, it's better than leaving them alone in an empty house since this may result in destructive behaviours like potty accidents caused by a lack of human interaction due to too long hours spent dwelling indoors.

Why Should I Run with my Dog?

The joy of running with your dog is unrivalled, especially if you do it often enough to lose weight and improve other aspects like mental health.

In addition, the change in scenery can be just what's needed when they're feeling bored or anxious; the sounds that arise from nature provide stimulating exploration for both mind and body alike!

Running with your dog is a great way to get them out of the house and help avoid destructive behaviours.

Vet surgeon John Burns has previously spoken about what you need for this activity. The fundamentals include running shoes or boots, travel water bottles, and cooling items so that both human companions and four-legged partners can take care of themselves during their run. 

1. Check your dog is capable

If you're looking for a long-distance running partner, it may be best to avoid breeds with short noses. Pugs and Frenchies are two popular brachycephalic (short-nosed) breeds that would not make ideal partners in this context.

They suffer from overheating quickly during hot weather conditions or prolonged exercise sessions where temperatures exceed 85 degrees Fahrenheit/29 Celsius.

Most dogs can handle being walked while at least partly restrained; however, finding your perfect match will take time! Personality type is the most crucial factor when picking out the right canine companion.

What kind of activities do you like? How much time can your spend with them each day or week if they're outside their regular hours at work etc.? This may seem like an obvious thing, but it's surprising how many people don't consider these details until after owning more than one breed!

Secondly, make sure to check with your vet before starting up on any exercise program. For example, if you have a puppy that's still growing or has joint issues, running may not be ideal for them, and it could cause injury, which would decrease the joy associated with this new activity!

2. Don't try to break any world records. 

If you want to hit your quickest time, it might not be the best idea for two reasons. First of all, remember that dogs need a lot more than just running around outside; they also have horrible potty habits and can become distracted quickly when something is interesting inside or near their favourite play area! 

3. Start slowly

So, you want to start running with your dog? That's great! But don't just clip on their lead tomorrow morning and take them for a 5K run. Can you imagine if someone did that to you when you have never been running before?

Dogs love to run and work up their endurance, so if you want a healthy pet full of life, they need to train just like humans do.

Start by doing an easy mile with your pup on flat ground or in low-impact exercises first before increasing the length of the distance they go each day as long as everything goes smoothly at first!

If they enjoy going farther than what is suggested, don't be afraid to try different routes that suit both parties' tastes; there are many ways around any obstacle in this world (even dogs)!

4. Don't run before they can walk.

We all know how noisy and distracting the street can be, which is why it's so important to make sure your dog has learned basic commands before taking them for a run.

You don't want their first time out is a nightmare with them pulling you and dragging you everywhere. Control first, then build momentum later. 

Even if you are confident enough to let them off the lead, you need to be confident that you can control, recall and trust them to stay close so that you can keep an eye on them.

5. Take some suitable Kit

There are many types of dog running belts and attachments you can wear when it comes to equipment. A key deciding factor will depend on what feels most comfortable using but be sure whatever belt or harness doesn't restrict any part of your dog's natural movement while running; otherwise, they may injure themselves. Try an EzyDog running belt from us; they work very well.  

6. Don't push them too hard.

And one more thing - dogs don't sweat through their skin. They pant. This means that if you push them too hard or corner your dog in a small space, they might hyperventilate and have difficulty breathing, leading to severe consequences!

So always let them catch their breath before going further with the training exercise(s). You and your dog must work as a team, and you will need to be aware of their body language to know how they are feeling or determine if they have had enough.

Conclusion

By following all of these steps, running will hopefully become a fun and enjoyable experience for both of you to stay healthy. You'll be able to bond with your pup in the process! Happy Running!