I am a dog owner who loves to run, and I especially enjoy the feeling of running with my dog, which is both exciting and satisfying. Nevertheless, it is not easy to run with a dog, you have to be well prepared and have some knowledge of the way to do it. Then you can enjoy the joy of running together, and at the same time to ensure the safety and health of the dog. Here I will talk to you about my experience and teach you how to run with a dog happily!
Preparations on how to run with a dog
Well before running with your dog, you need to be fully prepared to ensure that the whole process is both safe and enjoyable. The following are a number of key preparation tips on how to run with a dog.
Understanding dog breeds and physical abilities
You have to know the breed and physical ability of your dog before you can run around with him. This is because different breeds of dogs have different physical abilities and stamina. There are a number of factors that need to be considered to understand how to run with a dog.
For example, border collie, golden retriever, weimaraner, spotted dog these guys, endurance enough, energetic, love the outdoors, running long distance that is a piece of cake. They are physically capable and have no problem keeping up with your pace, and running together is a pleasure.
It is not all dogs that are capable of strenuous exercise, however. Such as the bulldog, French bulldog, short respiratory tract, long-distance running high-intensity work they can not do. Their body may not be able to withstand it if you let them run hard.
There are also some dogs which are simply not good at running, or at least not for long distances. Shih Tzus, pugs, and these short-headed little guys prefer sprints or simply don't like to run. They are physically built in a manner that dictates that they are better suited for slow, leisurely walks.
As well as the breed, you have to consider the age of the dog. Puppies are not appropriate running buddies; their bones are not strong enough yet. Most dogs have to wait until after a year and a half, some even two, before they can start training a piece to run. The small dog's bones may close earlier than the larger dogs like Great Danes these, but it's always best to ask your vet how to run with a dog safely for their age.
Consult your vet
You have to ask your vet before you want to run with your dog to enjoy that fun time. The vet is an expert in dog health. That is why they can give your dog a full assessment to see if it is suitable for running.
They will look at how fit the dog is now, how good his heart is, and how flexible his joints are, as there are some conditions, like heart disease and joint disease, where running may make it harder for the dog.
The age of the dog is also important. If the bones and muscles of a puppy are still growing, too much running may not be good; and if the dog is old, it may not be able to run anymore. So, the vet will look at how old the dog is and give some advice on appropriate exercise.
The dog's weight and breed have to be considered as well. There are dogs that naturally love to run, such as Reindeer and Shepherds, and some may be suited to slow and easy movement. For a dog which is too fat to run it puts a lot of stress on the joints and is prone to injury. It will be up to the vet to look at the dog's breed and weight to give an appropriate exercise program.
Choosing the right running gear
How to run with a dog? First, we had to pick a super comfortable running collar for our dog. This collar should not only be the right size, not to strangle the neck, but also have enough wear resistance and softness, after all, it has to accompany the dog in the grass, the path all kinds of roll. Of course, the leash must be strong and durable so that I can control the speed and direction of the dog without worrying about it suddenly rushing out or bumping into something. Every time I see my dog wearing a collar, wagging its tail and running after me excitedly, I feel that I have chosen the right equipment!
Warming up before running
When it comes to warming up before running with my dog, I'm super serious! Typically, I'll start by taking my dog for a short walk, just to warm up. We will walk slowly and leisurely through the neighborhood to get the dog acclimated to the outdoors and for my muscles and joints to gradually relax. On the walk, I would interact with the dog from time to time, petting his head and complimenting him to let him know that we were in this together, so that he would be more excited and looking forward to the run that was to come.
When I feel that the dog and I are in a similar state, we will start an easy jog. At this time, I will pay attention to control the speed, after all, warm-up, do not need to run too fast, mainly to let the body gradually into the state. The dog seems to understand this, it will follow me closely, sometimes jumping happily, sometimes barking excitedly, it is really super cute!
Developing a running program
Once you've done your preparation, in order to ensure that how to run with a dog is both safe and effective, which you will need to make a reasonable running plan.
Learn to walk before you can run
First, train your dog in some basic maneuvers, such as how to sit. Then you will need to teach your puppy how to walk comfortably on a leash, in a relaxed J-shape, with your dog on your side. It is up to you whether you prefer the left side or the right side, which is as long as it stays consistent. For the beginning use a short leash, or if that's all you have, use only a long leash of about two to three feet.
Reward your puppy with lots of positive encouragement whenever he walks on your preferred side without pulling or zigzagging in front of you. Immediately stop if your puppy starts to pass you or cross in front of you and keep your hand by your side so your dog knows not to pull. As sometimes it helps to turn around and walk in the other direction, reward your dog with praise when he stays by your side.
Training dogs to run with speed cues
It is possible to start bringing in speed cues once your dog is used to walking on a leash. For instance, you can say “let's go” and start to pick up the pace. And then reward your dog when they obey correctly. Begin with short distances at first to provide your dog with time to get used to this new step. Which is a great step in learning how to run with your dog.
You can then introduce new speed cues, such as “time to run”, or whatever works for you, as long as you keep the cues the same. As usual, if your puppy obeys, reward him. Stay patient and calm and eventually your puppy will learn what you want and what you want them to do when practicing how to run with a dog.
Reinforce your running habits
Time to bring your dog up to speed when he has mastered these sprinting techniques with you by his side. You can start having your dog run longer distances with you, but start with shorter distances. Your first run together might be just half a block, mostly walking, with the occasional sudden run. Then you can do the same thing for the whole block and then around the corner.
Which is similar to how you start building up your endurance when you first start jogging. Eventually, you and your puppy can stick together for longer runs. It is also helpful to prevent injuries such as muscle and joint strain or muscle pulls as this gradual acclimatization to running for longer periods of time occurs.
Tips on how to run with a dog
However great your dog is at running, we care most for his health and safety. Remember to keep enough water and fresh fresh water on hand at all times. If you are going for a long run, you need to bring a folding tray or a travel water bowl to make it easier to drink. Keep an eye on him at all times, if he gets out of breath or can't keep up with you, that's a sign that it's time to take a break. If you run in the yard, PUPPHUB's Large Dog Bowls and Best Dog Bowls are great.
Speaking of safety, walk your dog on a leash unless it's in the kind of place where it's safe to spread out, like a dog park. Don't forget to hang a couple of poop bags on the leash, nature has to take care of things sometimes.
When you're running, your baby can be attracted to all sorts of things and suddenly lurch forward or turn a corner. So, every time before going out, we have to check the leash, it has to be strong and durable. When running, the leash should be a little loose so as not to strangle it, but it should be able to be pulled back at any time. If he is mischievous and doesn't run with us, we will give him a gentle tug on the leash as a reminder. But don't pull too hard so that it doesn't get uncomfortable. In case of emergency, for example, if it wants to run into the road, then we have to pull the rope tightly and pull it back, safety first.
Choosing a safe running route
Choose a safe running route how to run with a dog focus. First of all, the main road is too dangerous, too many cars, the dog rushes out or get hit will be trouble, have to avoid. Then, the place where there are few people is also not good, encounter bad people or wild animals are troublesome, more people to be safe. Where to run? I think a green belt or a park is good. The green belt is shaded by trees, the air is good, and the dog can cool off and drink water, which is very comfortable. Parks are also monitored, so it's safer and you can get help if you need it.
Notes on Running
There are several things you should keep in mind while running with your dog to make sure the whole process is safe and enjoyable.
Keeping the right pace
Every time I run, I am quite concerned about the speed, after all, the pace of the dog is not the same as our physical strength. Before I go out, I have to look at the dog's spirit, if it looks tired or not too willing to move, then I will jog or even change to a walk, after all, the dog's health and safety is the most important thing when considering how to run with a dog. If the dog is in good spirits, I start running slowly with him.
At this point, I have to quickly adjust my speed so that it can keep up, but I can't let it get too tired. Sometimes the dog adjusts its speed on its own. For example, when it sees a small puddle or wants to smell the flowers on the roadside, it will slow down. At this time, I also follow the slow down, and enjoy this leisurely time together while practicing how to run with a dog.
Relaxation and recovery after running
It is very important to do proper relaxation and recovery activities at the end of running with your dog. As this can help you relieve muscle fatigue, reduce the risk of injury, and prepare for the next run.
Relaxation activities for dogs
I always bring my dog to walk or jog a bit after every run. This step is very important for the dog's heart and breathing system in order to recover. As dogs are usually excited and want to look around at this time of the year, this walk or jog is a good time for them to have a good time as well. Then I start to massage the dog as soon as its heartbeat and breathing have stabilized. Now and again, I'll give the dog a little treat, like his favorite snack or toy, as a post-run treat of sorts. In this way, the dog's body relaxes and its heart is happy. Every time I see it so happy to enjoy the reward, I think everything is worth it!
Monitoring your dog's physical condition
Every time I run with my dog, I will take a good look at him, after all, as the owner has to be responsible! I check to see if he is in good spirits, and if he is still as happy as he used to be. If he seems tired or is panting more than usual, I have to be careful. If the dog seems to be fine on the surface, but its body temperature has already gone up so I have to feel its ears and nose to see if it's hot or not.
I would not be too careful if I found him tired, panting or with a high temperature. It is not like dogs can talk, they just hold it in when they don't feel well and only show it when they can't do it anymore. So we have to be more careful and patient in observing them.
Responding to special situations
As you run with your dog, there are some special situations that you may encounter. There are a number of these situations that you need to learn to deal with to ensure the safety and health of your dog.
Dog injury or discomfort
If your dog accidentally gets hurt or seems to be not quite right while running around in a sprawl. For example, it's panting or walking with a limp. You need to stop him from running at this point, and you have to hurry up and get in touch with the vet. You can try to help ease the pain and discomfort of your dog by doing some simple first aid before your vet arrives. For example, if you have injured your dog's leg, you can gently immobilize it and try to keep it still. In any case, don't panic and act quickly!
Meeting other animals or people
You may meet other animals or people during the running. You need to remain calm and keep your dog's behavior in check in such situations. Embrace avoid making your dog fight with other animals or aggressive behaviors. As well as, politely communicate with other people and explain your situation.
Conclusion
Running with a dog can be a fun and fulfilling experience, but there is still some preparation required to ensure safety and health. When learning how to run with a dog, it's important to first learn about your dog's breed, fitness level and age, as well as visit your veterinarian to make sure he's fit to run. Choosing the right running gear, such as a comfortable collar and sturdy leash, is also important, and don't forget to warm up before running to avoid injury. Slowly increasing the distance of the run, controlling the right speed and staying hydrated are all key points to keep in mind when running. Always watch your dog during the run and remember to relax and recover after the run. If you encounter any problems, such as the dog being injured or uncomfortable, deal with them promptly. With these preparations, running with your dog can both enhance your relationship and keep you both healthy.