Train Your Dog To Run With You

Selecting A Specific Breed or Training A Puppy

If you want a dog that is a good running buddy, there are a few qualities you should consider. The dog needs to be in good shape in order to run, so older dogs with joint problems won’t meet your needs. You also need a breed that is both active and obedient (you don’t want a crazy dog pulling you side to side during a run). Some of the best running dog breeds include Weimaraners, Golden and Labrador Retrievers, English Setters, Rhodesian Ridgebacks, Malamutes, German Shepherds, Huskies (and more!). 

On the flipside, if you want a good running buddy you need a breed that isn’t brachycephalic (short-nosed dogs like bulldogs or pugs). These types of dogs are not suited to running as they overheat easily and have trouble breathing on longer runs. Also, be aware if you want to train your pup, that running isn’t safe in the beginning for puppies as their bones are still growing. Most breeds should wait about 12-18 months before picking up the pace.

Master Walking First

Training can be a slower process in order to get the dog used to the activity (and make sure they are well-behaved). Dogs should master walking beside their owners with a loose-leash (a leash that has slack and hangs sort of like a J shape) as when they pull on your run they could trip you up or choke themselves.

You also need to ensure that your canine is picking one side of you to stay on at all times. There isn’t a particular side that is better than the other; decide which side works for you and stick with it. Choosing a side is important because if your canine were to cross your path at higher speeds, that could mean serious injury for you both. Try reinforcing your pets good distancing with a treat and making it a habit until you’re confident that they are ready to pick up their pace.

Practice Direct Cues

Determining speed cues can help your canine better understand your expectation. When ready to start moving faster, cue your dog with a verbal saying such as ‘get moving,’ which will trigger the dog you’re about to enter into a jogging pace.

Subsequently, you can have another cue that will tell your dog to get into a running speed or for slowing down to catch both of your breaths and course-correct. By creating multiple signals, your dog will understand how to move accordingly.

Creating Endurance

 Now that your dog has mastered a steady pace and staying on one side of you, try adding small stretches of running into your daily walks. If all goes well you can increase the amount of time running on each walk. After several weeks your canine will have built enough endurance and strength needed for longer distances.