Instructions

• Step 1: Dry your dog afterwards Keep an old towel handy to dry off your dog after runs through rain or snow. It’ll help him stay warm and keep your house clean.
• FACT: Ultramarathon champ Scott Jurek used to run up to 30 miles a day with his husky, Tonto—the only training partner who could keep up with him.
• Step 2: Get your dog a checkup Have your dog checked over by the vet to make sure he doesn’t have any physical issues that would stop him from regular running.
• Step 3: Prepare for the run Dress for your run, grab an empty plastic bag, fill up your water bottle and load up a pocket with dog biscuits.
• TIP: Avoid running with your dog right before or after you feed him. Give his stomach at least an hour to normalize.
• Step 4: Check for ticks If you’re running in the woods or through fields, check your dog and yourself for ticks.
• Step 5: Use a short leash Hold your dog on a short leash so he concentrates on you and your pace. Too long a leash and he’ll fixate on squirrels, passing cars, clouds and whatever else it is that distracts dogs.
• Step 6: Start off on softer surfaces For the first few times, run on dirt, sand, or grass until his paws toughen up and his joints adapt to the pounding of running.
• TIP: Run for 20 minutes every other day. Each week add five minutes to the run time.
• Step 7: Don’t force the pace Avoid forcing the pace with your dog. If you do, they’ll hate running. It will take a few runs for your dog to develop the fitness and stamina to keep up with you.
• TIP: If you’re thirsty, it’s highly likely that your dog is as well. Map a route that allows for water breaks for both of you every 20 minutes or so.
• Step 8: Be sensitive to the weather Consider the weather and its effects on your dog. Hot asphalt and salted frozen concrete can hurt paws.
• TIP: Short-haired dogs may need doggie coats or sweaters to help them stay warm in sub-freezing temps.

You Will Need

• A three-to-five ft. leash
• A plastic shopping bag for poop
• Running shoes for you
• Comfortable athletic clothing
• Doggie treats
• A full water bottle
• A fanny pack
• Portable doggie dish
• An old towel