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Benefits of Running with Your Dog

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In addition to staying in optimal shape and releasing stress, running with your dog will further strengthen the bond with your pet.
Benefits of Running with Your Dog
Last update: 03 February, 2019

Are you someone who enjoys outdoor workouts? Do you have a dog? In that case, perhaps you should seriously consider the idea of going for a jog or a run with it! In this article, we’ll tell you about all the benefits of running with your dog. You won’t regret it!

Why running with your dog is beneficial

Running with your dog can be very rewarding. You must take some precautions, of course, and make sure that both you and your dog are in good shape.

If you are in good shape, then get ready for the adventure! It’s likely that, at the start, as with most things in life, you’ll need to be a little patient with your dog until he gets used to running with you.

Keep in mind that dogs, in general, love to run and are naturals at it. So, sooner or later, you’ll have the ideal running partner.

If you like to run and you have a dog, consider the benefits you can get from running with your four-legged friend.

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Teamwork

In addition to staying fit and getting rid of stress, the practice of running with your dog brings other benefits too. For example:

  • It’ll further strengthen the bond with your pet.
  • Your dog won’t criticize you if you get tired halfway, or if you can’t keep up!
  • You’ll be motivated to go out and run because your pet loves to share this activity with you. It’ll show it with his waggy, joyful tail.
  • You’ll feel good about teaming up with your four-legged friend. And, who knows, you may even decide to register for a marathon!

Benefits for your dog

Of course, running will also bring many benefits to your pet. Exercising is essential to a dog’s physical and mental health.

  • The dog’s bones and muscles will be strengthened.
  • The dog will get rid of its excess energy and will be less anxious as a result. This will also improve its behavior inside the house.
  • The dog won’t be overweight and won’t have the typical health problems associated with obesity.

Remember to keep your dog well hydrated and to use the right leash (ideally one that attaches to its waist). Also, take good care of its feet and avoid running on surfaces that are too hard or when the temperature is too high.

Don’t hesitate to get professional advice, so that you can get the most out of this activity without it harming your pet’s health in any way.

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The 10 most suitable dog breeds for running

It’s important to know that not all dogs will be up for this challenge, no matter how much they’d love to run along with you.

If you’re seriously thinking about running with a dog, keep in mind that there are some breeds that are more suitable, due to their muscular strength and endurance. Among them are:

But, if your four-legged friend is not suited to this activity, remember that you have many other options to share time together. So, in addition to taking care of your health and your dog’s, both of you will have a blast as you bond and strengthen your friendship.


All cited sources were thoroughly reviewed by our team to ensure their quality, reliability, currency, and validity. The bibliography of this article was considered reliable and of academic or scientific accuracy.


  • Poole, D. C., & Erickson, H. H. (2011). Highly athletic terrestrial mammals: Horses and dogs. Comprehensive Physiology. https://doi.org/10.1002/cphy.c091001
  • Denny, M. W. (2010). Limits to running speed in dogs, horses and humans. Journal of Experimental Biology. https://doi.org/10.1242/jeb.052886

This text is provided for informational purposes only and does not replace consultation with a professional. If in doubt, consult your specialist.