{"id":16026,"date":"2022-08-23T08:40:00","date_gmt":"2022-08-23T14:40:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/outwardhound.com\/furtropolis\/?p=16026"},"modified":"2022-08-23T06:29:37","modified_gmt":"2022-08-23T12:29:37","slug":"how-to-train-your-dog-to-run-with-you","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/outwardhound.com\/furtropolis\/dogs\/how-to-train-your-dog-to-run-with-you","title":{"rendered":"Get Your Tail on the Trail: How to Train Your Dog to Run with You"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

Pups always seem ready to run out the door for an adventure. Trail running with your dog is a great activity to get out and stay active together, but it requires some preparation (and the right dog trail running gear) to learn how to train your dog to run with you. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

You and your best buddy may be seasoned road runners looking to change your terrain, or maybe you\u2019ve been waiting for your furry friend to grow into their trail legs. Before you two head off the paved paths in your best trail running shoes, make sure you\u2019re both ready for what lies ahead.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Prep the Pup Before Hitting the Trail<\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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Most veterinarians suggest waiting until your dog is at least one year old \u2014 two years for some breeds like German shepherds or retrievers \u2014 before you start racking up the miles. Dogs\u2019 growth plates need to form fully to reduce stress on their joints, which can be a result of high-impact activities like running.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Your veterinarian can make recommendations about activity and distance for your dog\u2019s specific age, breed, or health conditions. For brachycephalic dogs<\/a> or smaller dog breeds like pugs, bulldogs, and Chihuahuas, who are not exactly built to run, sticking to short distances is the best way to keep from overexerting your best friend.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

In addition, be mindful of the terrain your dog’s paws will be exposed to. Dog booties are a good idea for protection against rough terrain, slippery surfaces, and hot pavement. Ruffwear is one brand that makes them.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How to train your dog to run with you<\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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Practice running and staying together in comfortable places first, like the backyard or up and down your driveway. Warm up with a walking pace for young dogs and slowly increase as time goes on. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Use this time to be sure your dog isn\u2019t too easily distracted and that you can regain their attention safely with voice commands or <\/span>treats<\/span><\/a>.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Commands Your Dog Should Know Before Trail Running<\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
  • Heel<\/span><\/li>
  • Sit<\/span><\/li>
  • Stay<\/span><\/li>
  • Leave it<\/span><\/li>
  • Down<\/span><\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n

    When it comes to training, build up your pup\u2019s endurance by starting with short, easy runs and slowly adding distance or mixing up the terrain. If you\u2019re going for really tricky trails, make sure your dog has experience jumping up and over things they may come across while you\u2019re running together.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

    Get the Right Dog Running Gear <\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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    Investing in a good dog leash and dog harness can be a lot more comfortable for your dog than a collar when running, especially if your buddy needs to be leashed the entire time you\u2019re out. If your pup tends to pull or get distracted easily, a harness attached to a trail running leash is the best way to maintain control and shift their focus when necessary. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

    Since you\u2019ll need to bring more items with you than you would for running alone, have a way to comfortably carry the items you and your dog may need. Lots of dog owners opt for a dog backpack that can easily hold a water bottle or hydration pack, water bowl, dog treats, dog poop bags, dispensers, or even your car keys and phone to keep you both hands-free on the trail. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

    Best dog trail running gear: DayPak<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
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    The DayPak is a saddlebag-style dog backpack that allows your pup to comfortably carry extra gear and essentials. It has a D-ring so trail runners can clip their bungee leash attachment (or any hands-free dog leash) to it from a waist belt.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    Because it’s a light-capacity pack, it’s great for longer runs as long as you don’t have your pup carry too much weight for him to handle. For beginners to dog packs, have your dog wear it without adding weight to the pack at first so he can get used to it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n

    The DayPak also features bright colors and reflective accents so you can always spot your doggy at night or in low-light conditions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    Your dog won’t get overheated either because it’s constructed with breathable mesh and adjustable straps to keep your dog comfortable and cool. Always make sure the buckles and straps fit your dog appropriately before heading out in order to keep your dog safe.<\/p>\n\n\n\n