How to Train a Dog to Run With You: Jogging and Biking

By Tailwisp Editorial TeamUpdated October 17, 20263 min read

Running with a dog can be a joy, with benefits for both of you. It needs careful preparation, because dogs cannot tell you when they are too hot, sore or tired.

Is your dog suited to running?

• Age: puppies should not do sustained running until growth plates close, which varies. Ask your vet.
• Breed and build: retrievers, pointers and some herding breeds can be good partners. Short-nosed breeds, giant breeds and many small dogs are poorly suited.
• Health: have a vet check before starting. Heart, joint or breathing issues can make running unsafe.
• Weight: keep your dog at a healthy weight.

See how to train a brachycephalic dog.

Teach the skills first

Before you run, your dog should walk nicely on a leash. See how to teach a dog to walk on a loose leash. Also teach:

• Cues for turning: "left" and "right".
• A slow-down cue: "easy".
• A stop cue: "whoa" or "wait".
• A side: teach your dog to run on one side.
• Leave it: for distractions.

Choose gear

Use a comfortable, well-fitted harness and a leash with some elasticity, or a waist-worn running belt for hands-free use. Avoid retractable leashes. See best dog training leashes. For serious sport, see canicross for beginners.

Build up gradually

Begin with walks, then add short jogging intervals, such as one minute of jogging and several minutes of walking. Increase slowly over weeks. Watch for fatigue, limping and panting.

Surfaces and weather

Soft surfaces such as trails and grass are gentler on joints than concrete. Check the pavement with your hand, since hot surfaces can burn paws. Run in cool hours. Carry water. See dog hot weather safety and dog heatstroke.

Pay attention to your dog

Stop if your dog slows, lags, pants heavily, limps, refuses to continue or seems distressed. Let your dog stop to sniff and toilet. After runs, check paws and offer water.

Biking with your dog

Biking with a dog can be dangerous, especially if the dog pulls or darts. If you choose to do it, use a purpose-built attachment that keeps the leash away from the wheel, ride slowly, use quiet paths and keep sessions short. Many trainers suggest alternatives, such as running or scooter-free options. Never attach the leash to your handlebars or wrist.

Common mistakes

• Starting too young. Wait for maturity.
• Overdoing it. Build up.
• Running in heat. Choose cool times.
• Ignoring paw care. Check after runs.

Troubleshooting

• Your dog pulls. Practice loose-leash skills first.
• Your dog stops to sniff. Allow breaks, and use cues.
• Your dog zigzags. Teach side and turning cues.
• Your dog tires quickly. Reduce distance.

Warm-ups, cool-downs and recovery

Start every run with a few minutes of brisk walking, so muscles warm up gradually. End with a slow walk and a chance to drink and toilet. After longer runs, give your dog a day of lighter activity, and watch for stiffness the next morning. If your dog is sore, lame or reluctant, rest and ask your vet.

Check paws after every run for cuts, cracks and burrs. Trim hair between toes if it collects debris, and keep nails short. Dogs that run regularly may need paw balm or booties on rough terrain, but introduce them slowly with treats.

Remember that dogs love to please and often keep running when they should stop. Be the one who decides when enough is enough, and keep records of distances and recovery so you can progress safely.

The takeaway

Check health, build fitness slowly and prioritize safety. A fit, well-trained dog makes a wonderful running partner.