Running With Your Dog: How to Get Off on the Right Foot

Running with your dog can be a healthy and rewarding experience for both of you. So, how do you get started? Below are tips to help prepare you and your furry friend to hit the pavement--and do it safely!

Ready to Run?
There are a few pieces of equipment needed to begin your run: an adequate leash for your dog and running attire for you. Although you can use a leash and your dog's flat collar, a safer and more comofrable alternative to consider is running with a hands-free leash that clasps around your waist and a harness for your dog. *

A hands-free running leash in use!
Photo from Dog-Milk.com

Get Ready
The first step to training your dog to run with you is to decide if he or she will run on your right or left side. Once you have decided this, you will stand with your dog on the proper side of you and adjust the leash length so that it forms a gentle curve downward--not too taught and not touching the ground. Next, practice walking with your dog, rewarding him or her with treats for staying on the correct side of you. Once your dog has mastered staying on the appropriate side, add short periods of jogging into your walks. Slowly, over several days or weeks, lengthen the periods of jogging until you are jogging for the entirety of your route.

Be Attentive
Your dog's running stamina is dependent on many factors--outdoor temperature, fitness level, ability to breath appropriately, orthopedic and overall health. Therefore, it is important to be aware of how your dog is tolerating exercise. In particular, pay attention to:

• Panting - excessive panting with the tongue hanging out the side of the mouth
• Tongue Color - purple-tinged
• Stride - limping, difficulty keeping up with your pace

If you notice any of the above signs, it is time to slow down or stop running. Remember, brachycephalic dogs ("short-nosed" breeds such as Pugs, English Bulldogs, Boxers, etc.) are especially susceptible to breathing difficulty because of their conformation. Therefore, for these breeds, it is particularly important to exercise in cool weather, avoid flat collars (opting for the harness instead), and pay close attention to their exercise tolerance.

Some of the more popular Brachycephalic Breeds
Photo from Dogs Arena.net

Explore the Area
Rochester, NY is fortunate to have a well-developed series of trails that welcome leashed dogs:

• Lehigh Valley Trail
• Erie Canal Trail
• Genesee Valley Greenway
• Railroad Loop Trail
• selected trails at Mendon Ponds Park

The above trails extend through a variety of landscapes including forest, fields, canal, and wetlands. It is not uncommon to spot wildlife as you are running by. Take a look around your area for dog-friendly trails for you and your pooch to explore!

Now that you and your pup are prepared, it is time to begin training together! Have fun and enjoy your time together outside!

*Prior to starting a new exercise regime, please contact your family doctor and your veterinarian to ensure both you and your dog are ready to run. 

Written by Sarah Funk-Goodling, DVM