Whether you’re a marathon extraordinaire or a first-time pavement pounder, there can be many avenues to get into running. But what about running with your dog?
Your local gym, running clubs or even going it alone with an app are all easy choices to find great running programs for humans. Running programs to ensure you’d dogs fitness level matches your own? Those are harder to find.
Maybe you didn’t think about running with your dog before. But ask yourself – will running with my dog get me out of bed in the mornings? Will my dog come out with me no matter what? Will my dog be there to protect me if I do get into a spot of bother?
The answer to all of these is of course, yes. Your four-legged friend is your most loyal companion, and won’t come up with excuses not to join you for a run.
However, as your pet, their health and safety are in your hands. To get the best out of your running programme, we’ve put together this essential dog running training guide.
How to train a dog to run with you
There’s no one size fits all when it comes to choosing a running program for you and your dog.
There are multiple factors to consider, like your dog’s age, its weight and its breed. Some dogs are more inclined for running than others, so you need to think about how to run with your dog before you engage in a running plan.
How far can I run with my dog?
Generally speaking, the best dog breeds for running are larger dogs, such as:
- Labradors
- Huskies
- Border Collies
- Boxers
- Dobermans
For a dog that’s a healthy size and weight, and not yet in old age, you could run up to six miles or 10 kilometres.
Of course, this all depends on your own physical fitness and how much exercise your dog is used to – which is why it’s best to start with a dog running training plan to build up their stamina and strength.
How to train your dog to run long distance
When we say long distance, we mean up to six miles – roughly 10 kilometres. First things first: make sure you are comfortable running this distance.
Seasoned runners will be able to manage this comfortably in around an hour, while expert runners can manage it in as little as 45 minutes.
Of course, that’s not going to be the same with your dog if it’s not used to running with you. Ease yourself in with the following long-distance training plan:
Start with warm-ups and cool downs
Depending on the weather and your dog’s activity levels, you’ll need to have a brief walking break around every 20 minutes, or perhaps more if the weather is hot. If the ground is too hot to touch comfortably with your hands, then it’s too hot to go running with your dog. Similarly, avoid running in freezing temperatures where you could be exposed to black ice.
Start your run with three to five minutes of warming up, then 10 minutes of full running. Bring it down again with a five-minute cool down.
Week One
After practising this routine a few times, you should be ready for two to three-mile distances. You can plan your route using websites like Gmap Pedometer, which will measure out the distance from a destination of your choice.
You should run to a ‘leash training’ approach, whereby your dog stays around two to three feet away from you, ensuring the lead is nice and slack. Encourage good habits with treats as you start your running programme.
Try to head out three times in week one, for example Monday, Wednesday and Friday. Your pace should not be lightning speed – comfortable enough for you and your dog. Keep an eye on him/her to avoid pulling on the leash or tiring out your dog too easily.
Week Two
By week two, you should be able to increase your pace a little. Don’t go for anything drastic – measure it in miles and try to shave off 10 to 20 seconds per mile.
You can use apps like Strava or Runtastic to keep a measure of your pace.
In week two, you can add an extra 10 minutes to your run to see how your dog adjusts. If he/she responds well, then you can up the pace.
Week Three
By week three, you should be able to hit three and a half miles comfortably, even with a few more seconds shaved off per mile.
As you get towards the end of the week – again, focusing on three runs or one extra at the weekend if you’re so inclined – you can take this up to four.
Your dog should now be comfortable with long distances.
Week Four
Use week four to focus on distance rather than speed, as you need to build a solid foundation for your dog.
You should be able to hit five miles by the end of the week. You can also add in more runs as you and your dog build more stamina, up to five runs per week.
Week Five & Six
By week five, you can shave a few more seconds off your mile time, leading to a point where you and your dog feel tired by the end of it.
At the end of week six, your distance should be up to six miles, and even a little faster if you’ve built it up gradually.
It may take a while to get to week six stage, in which case, repeat weeks four and five – but always keep an eye on your dog’s response.
What about trail running with my dog?
If you’re looking for something a little different from pounding the pavement, you can always try trail running. Weimaraners, German Shorthand Pointers and Vizslas are best for trail running, which is essentially running on unpaved surfaces, often up and down hills.
As trail running is more physically demanding, it’s advisable to consult with your vet first. You may need to take more breaks for your dog to handle those hills, and you should also watch out for natural hazards. You may even need to take precautions like extra vaccinations or medications to avoid dangers from parasites.
But in short; as long as you take it slow and stead and build up gradually, there’s no reason your dog can’t come with you on your trails.
If you’re not sure if your dog is a suitable ‘running breed’ for trails or the pavement, ask your Vet at their next checkup.
What do I need to take with me when running with my dog?
Bring cool water with you to keep your dog refreshed, particularly in warmer weather. If you can plan your running route to include a river, even better – your pooch will love the opportunity to have a splash!
Don’t forget to look after yourself too. Keep enough water on you to stay hydrated, and don’t deviate from your planned route. The last thing you need is for you and pooch to get lost!
Finally, make sure you’re prepared with the right kit – a reliable dog leash and a sturdy pair of shoes. Some shoes may be designed specifically for trail running, including extra support to help you over bumps and hills.
And just like you might need to keep yourself stocked up with electrolytes, which you can find in energy gels or isotonic drinks, your pooch could probably do with some high energy snack bars full of protein.
Getting out and about with your dog is one of the best ways to improve your fitness, and improve that pet and owner bond. Plan your route, lace up and get outdoors – you won’t regret it.
