How To Run With Your Dog

When running with your dog you want to make sure that it is just as enjoyable for him as it is for you. Running is a great way to get your cardiovascular exercise, which will help improve your overall health. It is also a time for you and your dog to bond, and a good time to reinforce basic training.

Before starting any exercise program with your dog, you should have him checked out with a veterinarian to make sure that he is healthy and strong enough to start an exercise program.  Although your dog may seem healthy, just like a human he could have a hidden illness. Going to the veterinarian and getting a clean bill of health will give you peace of mind that your dog can keep up and that the exercise will benefit him.

Before running with your dog, check the weather report; you'll want to make sure the weather isn't too hot or too cold.  Your dog's paws can be damaged by even a small amount of ice on the ground.  Their paws can also be damaged by the heat of pavement, or the sidewalk. If the ground is too hot, it can cause pain and damage to your pet that might take a while to heal.  If you do want to run with your dog in winter or on hot summer days, there are special booties that you can get for your dog to protect his paws.

When running with your dog, it is best to keep him on a leash to protect him from danger.  This is especially important if you will be running in the city or near streets; without the safety of a leash, you have no real way to prevent your dog darting into traffic. While running, have your dog run next to you on your left side. If running near traffic, you should be facing the traffic flow. Remember to make sure that you are visible to the traffic passing you. If you're running at night, have some reflective clothing or some kind of reflector for you and your dog.

These simple tips will make running fun for you and your dog.  It may be difficult to get your dog to match your slower pace at first, but every time you run with your dog it will get easier and more routine.  Soon, both of you will be looking forward to the companionship of your runs!