Long Distance Runners

Join

Thinking of getting a dog to run with me

cowgirlslikeus86
cowgirlslikeus86 Posts: 597 Member
edited 9:18AM in Social Groups
I have never had a dog before but I am about to get one. I want to know how realistic it is to run with a dog and if any of you do it?

What breed do you have and was it fairly easy to train them to run with you?

I am thinking about a German shepherd or Carolina dog. I want a medium size dog that is going to be able to keep up with me :-)

exercise.png

Replies

  • faithog
    faithog Posts: 76
    My dog is my best running partner. I have a Doberman and he runs everything up to 10 miles with me (he could probably do more- but I don't want to let him hurt himself).

    He was very easy to train and loves to run... maybe even more than I do =)

    A few things to possibly consider:
    I do not run off road/ horse path with him and I walk if we ever have to cross gravel (to protect his paws). On anything less than 4 or 5 miles, I don't usually take water for him- but anything more and he has his own bottle that I carry. We're also careful not to go in the afternoon (during the summers) to keep him from burning his feet on the pavement.

    I would imagine a German Shepherd or Carolina dog would be a fine running partner! Just be careful- sometimes the larger breeds have genetic hip issues. I would recommend getting your dog checked every year (our vet checks my Dobe's hips at each annual- it's simple and quick).

    I am excited for you! I think you will see that dogs make wonderful personal trainers ;)

    Best of luck!
    -Faith
  • 3dogsrunning
    3dogsrunning Posts: 27,167 Member
    See my nickname. LOL.

    It is pretty realistic to have a dog run with you.

    Now, a few words of caution.

    If you are thinking of a puppy, it is not recommended that you do much running with them until they are fully grown. This age differs but expect 1-2 years for a large breed (I erred on the side of caution and went 2 years). Running with you is not the same as running on their own, just watch the gait. It can be stressful on the developing joints.

    The breeds you mentioned are both extremely high energy breeds. Great for a running partner, not so great on days you can't run them. A bored dog can be destructive. An energetic dog who is bored can be a nightmare (especially the intelligent ones, most working breeds are pretty intelligent). IF you are going to look at a high energy breed, you need to make sure you have the time to exercise them even when not running.

    Most breeds/mixes can run fairly decent distance. You don't need to necessarily get a high energy breed just for that. It does depend on what you expect to do with them though.

    Also, don't forget, when you do start running with the dog, they need to work up to it just like we do. Follow the same type of distance building plan you would with a person.

    I liked this article from Runner's World
    http://www.runnersworld.com/article/0,7120,s6-238-527--13611-0,00.html

    What is your weekly mileage like?
  • 3dogsrunning
    3dogsrunning Posts: 27,167 Member
    One more thing - German Shepherds - I love the breed, they are an amazing breed. They can also be very challenging, especially for inexperienced owners. They arent for everyone. Please, please do your research on any breed before you choose. IF you go with a mix, research all the breeds in it and expect any of the traits to appear.

    Edit - sorry I am in a rush and tying to answer. What I am trying to say is make sure the dog fits your life. You also want to know about health issues in the breed(s) and how to avoid them if possible.
  • Dizzle_65
    Dizzle_65 Posts: 249 Member
    Have a look at these http://www.canicross.org.uk/ I know you're in the states but they will be able to help.

    Some dogs struggle to cool down so depending on your climate that might be a consideration.
  • FoxyMcDeadlift
    FoxyMcDeadlift Posts: 771 Member
    My ex had a beautiful white Alsation who loved a good run. God i miss that dog

    Also, great article 3 dogs running.my mum has a Weimaraner, but shes at the end of her running days. I was wondering what dog i should look to get as a runner, and perhaps that article has swayed me as they appear in all the styles important to me (speed, but also distance and trail )
This discussion has been closed.

Categories