Spring is around the corner and with that, many of us are getting back into the outdoor fitness routines. Temperatures are warmer, snow is melting quick, and trails are calling us. This season tends to bring a boost in motivation — whether your training for a marathon, or just want to start up the daily morning runs again. You’re not the only one with a little spring fever though, your dog is probably pretty stoked to get more time outside.
So. As you jump back into warm weather outdoor adventures, you might be wondering about starting to run with your dog. We’re here for it! Runs with your dog are often the best part of the day. And, they’ll make you better able to handle tough adventures as the season wears on. Here are some things to keep in mind to help you manage expectations and you rack up the miles together.
Don’t worry about pace
If your dog is new to running, you can pretty much forget about always running a certain pace per mile. Especially during the first weeks. Dogs get the zoomies, then they’ll stubbornly stop to sniff every single bush. They’ll chase after a squirrel and then bee line it to the nearest creek. This is just how it goes. Managing expectations looks like remembering this run isn’t a Boston Marathon qualifier event — it’s just the two of you in nature getting your heart rates up and enjoying yet another outdoor activity together. And honestly? That’s actually so much better.
Figure out your gear set up
My preferred way to run with my dog is with a Utility Pack worn as a crossbody. I keep it empty, with the exception of 2-3 poop bags, and my phone (in case of emergencies!). Once we get to the trailhead on our off-leash trail, I can easily pack our Ultralight Leash into the bag and start jogging with minimal annoying 'stuff' bounce.
Should we be going for a little bit longer of a run, you can also fill one of our Collapsible Water Bottles halfway, and then fold it to fit into the Utility Pack.
If you are running on the road or an on-leash area, you might want to consider going hands-free, and clipping your dog to yourself. The Hands-Free Rope Tutorial calls for one 10' leash and an extra carabiner.
Watch out for dehydration or overheating
Just like with long walks or hiking in warmer temperatures, overheating and dehydration can be common in dogs. When you start running with your dog, you’ll want to tune into their physical cues. Know what they’re capable of, what they aren’t, and what signs tell you they’re done for the day. For example, a lot of working breeds can easily take on up to half-marathon distance or more. They can lock in a pace and stick with you, even clocking a few extra miles in off-leash zones. Smaller and chonkier dogs might be better suited to short, easy runs. In any case, run with extra water, go early in the day, and be okay with turning back before your goal.
Excitement might overtake training
You may have trained your dog to walk on one side of you, sit at the crosswalk, not tug on the leash, and not cross in front of you. Your expectation? That they remember this training once the paces pick up a bit. The reality? Your dog gets too excited, does none of this, and tries to scavenge through the park garbage can. Here, shorter, lightweight leashes can come in handy as can quieter trails, and time to spare so you can stop, reprimand, and reward.
Pre-run fetch might be useful for active dogs
A lot of runners with dogs do notice a bit of leash pulling especially in the first mile or so of a run. If you have a super active breed, it might do you well to throw the ball for your dog a few times before starting into your run. This won’t tire them out but it can reduce that need for them to run a little too fast before settling into an easy pace.
Don’t forget about their rest and recovery
Runners are always being told to stretch, properly cool down, eat after tough workouts, hydrate, and get enough sleep. Your dog is no different. Watch for any limps or paw pad irritation and after a long run, they might need to eat and drink more than usual. Just like you do! If you’re still out when it’s time for them to eat, our backpacking bowl travels well for the car or trailhead. We always like to keep a couple of full BPA-free Nalgenes in the car with us as well for water reserves.
If your pup's paws get a bit torn up, you'll want to back off on the mileage for a little while and build up those calluses on shorter runs. Use some Pawjam for some TLC while the paws heal.
Every run is a win!
Every run with your dog is a win because you’re creating a lifestyle where you enjoy exercising, being outdoors, and appreciating the small everyday moments together. It’s their first time on earth too and though they’ll trip you, drag behind, or zoom ahead, they’ll love you just for bringing them with you.
