Exercise is an important part of your dog's physical and mental health, just like yours. And although there are many fitting activities you can join him in, running with your dog is an excellent way to burn calories and relieve stress for both of you.
Lack of exercise is one of the most common reasons for the weight and behavioral problems many dog parents face. With not enough outlets to expend their energy, puppies and adult dogs can become destructive. Not only does chewing upholstery cause you major distress, but it can be dangerous for your pet. Wondering where to get started with your running partner? Look no further. Running benefits your dog in the same ways it benefits you—so don't be afraid to put your trainers on and hit the same roads and trails you'd jog on yourself.
Once you've decided to start, you'll want to make sure you have all the necessary items to keep both of you safe and comfortable. Be sure to check off the following every time you leave for a run with your buddy:
Check the weather. Dogs don't heat and cool their bodies like you do, so they can be more sensitive to extreme temperatures. If it's too hot your dog could incur heatstroke; too cold and frostbite can set in.
Before you begin, there are more personal precautions to take when running with your dog. First, you'll want to make sure running is something your dog actually wants to do! Not all breeds need much beyond a regular walk. A border collie or similarly active herding or working breed may love to join you for several miles, whereas a stockier lapdog doesn't want to move quite as quickly as you'd like. If running seems to be an enjoyable activity for both of you though, you're ready to take the next steps.
Perhaps just as important as the desire to run is the capability of your dog. Age plays an important factor when deciding how and when to run with him. For naturally large breeds, running long distances before adulthood is not recommended. This is because the bones and joints in your growing puppy are susceptible to injuries before they're fully developed. Even if your dog is old enough, however, a veterinarian checkup prior to any running is one of the best things you can do. Dogs are stoic animals and hide injuries and illnesses quite well from their pet parents. Your vet will be able to tell you whether it's safe for your dog to jog. If you notice your dog laboring or lagging behind, it is best to stop and let him rest or walk the rest of the way. Never force your pup to run with you as it could create health issues for him.
Beginning a run with the go-ahead from your vet requires very little training. Basic obedience is usually all you need for a comfortable run together. Nonetheless, making sure your dog doesn't pull you around or weave in and out of your legs is an important safety measure for both of you; letting him lead the run can put your own muscles at risk if you exercise regularly. You'll also want to make sure your dog can stop, sit, and stay should you need to wait at any traffic lights or cross crowded trails. Above all, start slow and work your way up to longer runs to avoid injury, just as you would if you were beginning to run on your own for the first time.
You'll notice that as your dog gets into better shape, he'll be able to go longer distances at faster paces. During your run, make sure to check your dog's feet for any torn pads or nails. Although your pup might start limping if he's injured, he might be so happy to be out with you that he doesn't notice or show it. It's up to you to make sure he's safe during exercise.
If running with your dog becomes a regular in your routine, you might also want to talk to your veterinarian about proper nutrition. Just like athletes, active dogs need more calories and varying foods than your average couch potato. Proper nutrition and exercise are paramount to keeping your dog healthy, and together they'll provide your best friend with a long, happy life.
Dr. Sarah Wooten graduated from UC Davis School of Veterinary Medicine in 2002. A member of the American Society of Veterinary Journalists, Dr. Wooten divides her professional time between small animal practice in Greeley, Colorado, public speaking on associate issues, leadership, and client communication, and writing. She enjoys camping with her family, skiing, SCUBA, and participating in triathlons.
Science Diet's breakthrough nutrition supports ultimate digestive well-being & healthy microbiome for dogs age 7+
Delicious braised beef paired with tender vegetables in a succulent stew
Hill's Science Diet Sensitive Stomach & Skin dry dog food is gentle on stomachs while nourishing skin & promoting a lustrous coat.
Chicken & barley entree with great taste and precisely balanced nutrition to support 5 essential building blocks for lifelong health
Supports healthy immune system, digestion, lean muscle & beautiful coat
Supports energy & beautiful coat. Helps keep immune system, joints, heart & kidneys healthy
Supports lean muscle and beautiful coat for adult dogs
Improves Everyday Ability to Get Up & Go
Hill's Science Diet Sensitive Stomach & Skin dry dog food is gentle on stomachs while nourishing skin & promoting a lustrous coat.
Supports lean muscle for dogs who prefer smaller kibble
Supports healthy joints, immune system, digestion, lean muscle & beautiful coat
Science Diet's breakthrough nutrition supports ultimate digestive well-being & healthy microbiome. Delicious food in a small bite size
Science Diet's breakthrough nutrition supports ultimate digestive well-being & healthy microbiome for dogs age 7+. Delicious food in a small bite size
Science Diet's breakthrough nutrition supports ultimate digestive well-being & healthy microbiome
Supports energy level & beautiful coat. Helps keep immune system, heart & kidneys healthy
Supports energy level & beautiful coat. Helps keep immune system, heart & kidneys healthy
Low calories & L-Carnitine help promote ideal body weight, support healthy mobility & maintain heart function
Chicken & Barley recipe with precisely balanced nutrition to keep adult dogs active and healthy.
A delicious complement to the nutrition of Science Diet Small & Mini dog food
A delicious complement to the nutrition of Science Diet Small & Mini dog food
Learn about the skin condition called dog mange: what it is, how to spot the symptoms, and treatments for both Demodectic & Sarcoptic types of the disease.
Learn if dogs have dominant paws like humans have dominant hands, and discover how you can determine if your dog has a paw preference.
Learn how to simply and inexpensively build a DIY dog ramp to help your dog get up & down more easily (great for senior dogs & those with mobility issues).
Are you wondering "Why does my dog hide their face?" Learn what your dog might be trying to tell you and whether you should be worried about the behavior.
Learn some great ways to involve your dog in your weight loss goals, including exercise & activities you can both do and healthy snacks for both of you.
Learn what types of dog behavior mean for your best buddy's health and well-being. Once you notice his signals and moods, you'll know how to help him.
Learn how giardia in dogs can wreak havoc on your pet's digestive system, how giardiasis gets diagnosed and how your dog's veterinarian might treat it.
Strokes in Dogs: Signs, Risk Factors & What You Should Do
With all the misinformation available online about dogs, it's time you got the true canine facts. Learn about some common dog myths you may have heard.
Do you think you might have an overweight dog? Learn the signs of dog obesity, as well as causes, potential effects and tips for prevention.
Discover how the field of dog science is giving us more and more insights into the inner workings of our furry best friends.
Barking is a normal behavior for most dogs, so you might be concerned if your dog isn't barking. Learn some causes why dogs don't bark.
Your dog has stopped eating, but why? Learn common reasons why he doesn't seem interested in food and how you can get him back to a normal eating routine.
Learn about dwarfism in dogs, including types of this condition, breeds that are prone to developing it & general effects dwarfism has on a dog's health.
Learn all about dog cone collars: Why your pup may need one, choosing the best type, how long they're usually worn and tips to help dogs manage their cone.
You know that bathing your dog is important, but how often should you do it? Learn the right dog bath frequency, based on their breed, lifestyle & health.
A deaf dog may now live a quieter life, but he's still the active, loving pup you once knew! Discover how to care for and communicate with your dog.
Are all dogs with white fur considered albino? Learn the characteristics of albino dogs, along with considerations if you're interested in adopting one.
Learn why your dog has that extra nail on the side of his paw, what it's purpose is and where it came from.
Learn about the many causes of your dog's itching, from fleas and ticks to allergies. Explore how you can prevent and address these problems in your dog.
Our low calorie formula helps you control your dog's weight. It's packed with high-quality protein for building lean muscles, and made with purposeful ingredients for a flavorful, nutritious meal. Clinically proven antioxidants, Vitamin C+E, help promote a healthy immune system.
Our low calorie formula helps you control your dog's weight. It's packed with high-quality protein for building lean muscles, and made with purposeful ingredients for a flavorful, nutritious meal. Clinically proven antioxidants, Vitamin C+E, help promote a healthy immune system.
©2025 Hill's Pet Nutrition, Inc. As used herein, denotes registered trademark status in the U.S. only; registration status in other geographies may be different. Your use of this site is subject to the terms of our Legal Statement. About our Ads. Cookie Consent Tool