Bring Water!

Always make sure that your dog is well hydrated. If you’re taking an especially long run, bring some water with you.

Harnesses for Small Dogs

Small dogs can have quite fragile necks. If your dog is of a smaller breed and hasn’t been trained to not pull on a leash, put it into a harness rather than attaching the leash to its collar. Or better yet, teach it some leash manners to make life easier for the both of you.

If Your Dog is Lazy, Get Excited

If your dog is lazy and doesn’t want to go outside, show it how excited you are about going for a run. Your dog will sense your enthusiasm and may be more cooperative. Praise your dog as it begins to put effort into the exercise. You may need to start off with some power walking as opposed to running to get your dog going.

If Your Dog is Hyperactive, Calm Down

If your dog is the type to go crazy at the prospect of stepping outdoors, running with it on a leash may seem next to impossible. What’s more, your dog will sense your own agitation and frustration and get even more wound up. Stay calm, don’t get angry or annoyed at your dog, as you go outside to run. If the dog senses that you are calm and in control of the situation, it is likely to settle down a bit on its own. Just like in the case of a lazy dog, you may need to start off with a few power walking sessions and some leash manner training before starting longer running sessions.

Pace Yourself

Unless you’re an active runner yourself, your dog is likely to be able to run for greater distances and longer times than you are. Remember to pace yourself. If you launch into a full-blown sprint you may be worn out by the time you reach the next street. This won’t provide much fitness benefit to your dog.

Let your Dog Run on Grass

Running on concrete or asphalt can be tough on your dog’s paws, especially if it’s not accustomed to running on such hard surfaces. Try starting out by running on grass, or allowing your dog to trot on the grassline next to the sidewalk.

Trotting – not Sprinting

Many people tend to think that running with your dog requires them staying in their “gallop”-type gait. It’s perfectly fine for your dog to trot next to you throughout the run. You can work a couple of quick sprints into your run, but for the most part your dog will be trotting alongside you.