Breed, size, and age are important factors to examine before running with your dog.
Large, athletic breeds such as huskies, Australian Shepherds, Retrievers, Dalmatians, and collies are equipped for longer jogs, per Dog Time, while some are better for short bursts, such as Greyhounds, pit bulls, or beagles. Brachycephalic dogs (breeds with “squished” faces), such as pugs, Bulldogs, and Boxers, however, shouldnt go on runs at all, as their small respiratory tracts make breathing difficult. Short-legged dogs, such as Corgis or dachshunds, arent equipped for runs, either.
Older dogs and younger pups arent recommended to run for extended periods of time, either, because it can bring longterm damage to their joints and bones. While many older dogs experience arthritis and other conditions, puppies bones and joints are still developing when theyre young, especially if theyre a larger breed. Talk to your vet before jogging with your pup, to ensure their growth plates have closed enough, and that its safe for them to do so. Article continues below advertisement
Dog owners should also consider their dog’s health, food intake, and weather beforehand.
Health is an obvious factor while deciding if your dog should run with you, as your dog may have an underlying condition, which can worsen with running, according to Health. Some dogs are also more prone to certain conditions than breeds, such German Shepherds, who are more prone to hip dysplasia than others. So, talking to your vet before taking them out with you is absolutely vital. Article continues below advertisement
“A vet can let you know if there are any red flags, and can provide advice about whats safe and healthy for your individual dog in your individual surroundings,” Angi Aramburu, owner of Go Fetch Run in New York City told Health.
Taking a dog on a run after a large meal can also lead to fatal conditions such as gastric dilatation and volvulus syndrome, which is something to keep in mind, too.
Running with a dog in extreme weather conditions is also heavily advised against. Below-freezing temperatures can lead to hypothermia, frostbite, and salt poisoning if your dog is running on salted pavement without booties, while intense heat can lead to conditions such as heat stroke, dehydration, and paw damage, if the pavement is too hot. Article continues below advertisement
Dogs Often Get the Zoomies When Playing
Dogs can get pretty excited when playing, and it’s common for them to get the zoomies. (excited dogs also have a tendency to hump due to over stimulation)
When Laika plays with other dogs she almost always gets the zoomies – running around the yard, tongue out, looking happy as can be. There’s something endearing about a dog’s willingness to get silly, and it’s something I never tire of seeing.