Dogs make perfect running partners. No wonder, as they always have the enthusiasm to move. However, getting started is always challenging, even when it comes to running with a dog. We’ll share how to train your dog for jogging, what equipment you need, and other essential considerations.

Is my dog even suitable for jogging?

Whether a Labrador, Jack Russell Terrier, or Poodle – every dog is a great jogging partner. When I’m out with my running group, we are regularly accompanied by Donna, a French Bulldog. She runs ahead, and we follow. Donna is only satisfied when she has overtaken all of us, covering up to 16 kilometers with us.

Whether your four-legged friend is a suitable running partner does not necessarily depend on its breed. Instead, its health, age, fitness level, and weight play a role. Especially if your dog is a bit older or has a bit more weight, consult your veterinarian before the first joint running session. Your furry friend should not be too young either. The effort would be too much for puppies. So, it’s better to wait for about 2 years until your beloved pet’s bone structure is complete, and you can start running training.

However, fit dogs do not necessarily make good jogging partners. If your dog’s play and hunting drive is stronger than its obedience, you should work on it before the first training session. He should be able to walk with you, both with and without a leash! And even then, he might not enjoy the training or lose interest after short rounds. In such cases, it’s essential to accept it. After all, there are plenty of people who don’t enjoy jogging either.

What equipment do I need for running training with a dog?

While your furry friend doesn’t need specific running shoes, a jogging leash is indeed useful. After all, you can’t let your dog run freely on all paths. A good jogging leash can be recognized by

In addition to the leash, a running harness for dogs is part of the equipment. Unlike a collar, a running harness spares your dog’s throat and trachea.

When is the best time to go jogging with my dog?

The training time largely depends on the outside temperature. Temperatures up to 15 degrees Celsius (59°F) are considered safe. So, in summer, only the cool morning and evening hours are suitable for running with a dog.

However, temperature is not the only factor determining the training time. If your four-legged friend has just eaten, you can’t go out right away, even if the outside temperature is ideal. In such cases, you should wait at least 2 hours. Otherwise, your furry friend may experience stomach pain, and in the worst case, even gastric torsion in dogs.

Where is the best place for jogging with a dog?

Forests, rural paths, and dog-friendly parks are ideal for running with a dog. Avoid running through the city not only because of the many distractions but also due to the hard running surface. Always remember: Your four-legged friend doesn’t wear running shoes to absorb its weight.

How long can I jog with my dog?

The duration of running training depends on the age, body structure, and initially, the fitness level of your dog. For example, the aforementioned dog, Donna, used to run much further than 16 kilometers. However, as she has aged, she can’t cover such distances anymore. In general, let your dog determine how far it wants to run. Do not overstrain it. Plan sufficient water and bathroom breaks for it on longer routes. If it starts panting quickly and heavily, it’s time for a break.

How often can I go jogging with my dog?

After running training, your dog’s body needs time to recover, just like yours. Therefore, you should not run with it more often than every other day. Observe your dog during the days without training and only run with it when it’s fit.

Training for jogging with a dog

Do you remember your time as a beginner runner? Then you probably know that you didn’t immediately run 5 kilometers. And your pace back then likely doesn’t compare to your current running speed. Keep that in mind when starting running training with your dog.

Start with small, slow-paced runs. Choose a quiet route where your dog won’t be distracted. Let it relieve itself and sniff around beforehand. Call it to you, then start running. It’s important that it runs beside you, not in front of you, so you can better control the pace. When you notice any signs of distraction, verbally draw its attention back to you. Initially, take a running break every 2 to 5 minutes and praise it extensively. You’ll see, over time, your dog will become more focused on the running training. Once it has the necessary basic endurance, you can also jog larger rounds with it.

Conclusion: Things to consider when jogging with a dog

To make jogging with a dog a success, consider the following: