Veterinary care now, pay later! - Find out more
Veterinary care now, pay later! - Find out more
Dogs can make the perfect running companions. They’re enthusiastic, energetic and they never say no when we ask. However, all too often we see dogs behaving badly en-route – herding their owners, running off course, getting distracted by other dogs or simply laying down in protest. The fact is running isn’t for every dog.
As a general rule, young dogs and very old dogs don’t have the physical characteristics to support high-impact exercise such as running. Puppies have bones and muscles that are still maturing, so it’s important to wait until they are fully grown (at least one year old) before you start running with them, especially if it is for long-distance running. If you have a dog that is starting to feel their age, eg. short on puff, stiff after a run, it’s best to consult your vet before beginning (or continuing) a running program. The age that this happens can vary widely between breeds and individuals.
Breed is probably the biggest predictor of whether your dog is a suitable running partner. Hunting and herding breeds like German Short-haired pointers, Jack Russells, Border Collies and Kelpies tend to suit long distances (over 10km), while Greyhounds, Pitbulls and Golden Retrievers suit middle distances (less than 10km). Dogs typically not suited to running include very large dogs (e.g. Great Danes), very small dogs (e.g. Chihuahuas) or dogs that have a tendency to overheat, such as pugs and bulldogs.
Running is a high-impact activity that requires your dog to be in moderately good health. For dogs carrying extra kilos, it’s a good idea to start a weight loss program before you introduce them to regular running. If your dog has a medical history of hip dysplasia or arthritis, running may actually worsen the condition, so it’s best to seek advice from your veterinary team before you start.
There will be some dogs who, despite being the ideal breed, age and health, do not like running. They may have a curious temperament that makes them easily distracted by every bush and shrub or they may simply refuse to run after a certain distance. If after a few weeks of perseverance you’re not making headway, you are probably best sticking to walking or alternative exercise options
The key to building a successful running program with your dog is to start slowly. Human runners are often advised to take a staged run/ walk approach to building running fitness. The same approach is recommended for your dog:
The great thing about running is you can do it any time, almost anywhere and it doesn’t cost anything. But there are a few essentials you need to take with you.
Even if your dog is well-trained, it’s a good idea to keep him/ her on a lead at all times. Retractable leads are not recommended as they have excess length which can easily tangle. Never use a choke collar as it can collapse your dog’s trachea (windpipe) – this can be particularly dangerous if your dog is already panting and short of breath. The best type of lead is a relatively short (1-2 metre) lead attached to a standard collar.
It’s important to keep your dog hydrated throughout a run. If possible, take a collapsible water dish or run a route where you know your dog will have access to clean water.
Running with your dog can be a very rewarding activity for the both of you. Follow the safety tips below and you’ll be well on the way to having the perfect running partner: