What dog breeds can run a marathon?
Other dogs such as Pitbulls and Golden Retrievers would prefer for you to take them on shorter, much faster runs. Dogs that were primarily bred for work, on the other hand, are far more inclined to run marathons. Some good examples are German shepherds, German shorthaired pointers, Weimaraners and Dalmatians.
For example, if you’re going for a 10K run, your dog will also have to complete that distance, keeping up with you the entire time. … There are many dogs who can run this way and enjoy it, and it is your job as the owner to decide whether a long, continuous run is the best thing for your pup.
The Physiology of Your Dog
One of the first things you will learn as a dog owner is that dogs need regular exercise for several reasons. However, not all pooches can endure the excessive stress of running marathons.
You can readily tell whether or not your canine friend is suited to long-distance running by, first of all, examining his muscles. What do they look like? Are the muscles pumped up and short or long and sleek?
If your dog’s muscles appear pumped up and short like that of a bodybuilder, then stick to running short distances or sprinting.
But if his muscles are longer and sleek, it is an excellent sign that your dog is highly capable of engaging in long-distance running.
The dog’s breed is also a determining factor as to whether or not your canine friend can marathons.
Dog anatomy & how dogs run
Here are some of the unique features dogs have:
A dog’s paws – built for running:
Their paws are covered in tough, calloused pads. The more you walk and run with your dog on different surfaces, the more their paw pads will adapt to higher mileage and rough terrain.
One of the most common injuries I see while running with dogs is if the dog is not used to being walked on pavement, then they need a couple of weeks to build up tougher pads. If not, then sometimes they scuff up their pads and start bleeding.
A dog’s paw pads also help them grip different types of surfaces, according to MerckVetManual.com. And their nails also give them extra traction while they run.
A dog’s legs:
Dogs have four different gates, according to Merck. Similar to horses, dogs walk, trot, canter and gallop. And they have most of the same muscles, joints and ligaments as we do.
The dog’s coat is a factor:
As you know, dogs’ coats vary widely. Some types of coats are better suited for different types of weather.
For example, huskies and malamutes have thick coats that protect them even in sub zero weather. Retrievers such as Labradors and golden retrievers also have thick coats that protect them from cold water and cold weather conditions.
Dogs with shorter coats like my weimaraner do not have a lot of protection from the cold but their fur still gives them a little protection from the sun and heat.
Since dogs are not able to sweat like we do, they lose heat by panting. When you’re running with your dog in warm weather, be very mindful of how you will provide water, shade and keep your dog from overheating.
Even when dogs are panting, they still need to pause from panting in order to get a good breath, according to Merck.
I personally do not run with my dog using a Gentle Leader or any sort of head collar that fits over his muzzle because I do not want to prevent him from panting and cooling properly.
You can also help your dog cool off by making sure he drinks water, encouraging swimming or wading or spraying water directly onto his coat.