Meet Colby, my training partner
A few times a week when I don't have time to ride or get in a lengthy workout, I grab the leash and asked Colby (my Jack Russell Terrier) if she wants to go hiking...without exception, she's always game. She doesn't care if it's raining, snowing, or hot as hell. She doesn't care if it's 9 am, 2 pm, or midnight. She's just happy to join in on the fun. She never complains, slows the pace, or gets bored. As a matter of fact, she doesn't mind if we're lost, walk the same trail a million times, or if we stop to take pictures. She's all in 100% of the time. She's happy, motivated, fun to be with and here's the biggest bonus, she always wants to go again, whenever...she never fails me.
So, do you have a dog? If you do...I would be willing to place a bet on the fact that he/she wants to be your training partner.
Now! Let's be real. I have nothing against tiny little dogs (my dog is one degree above tiny) but if you have...say, a Chihuahua and you are training for a ultra-marathon, well, he may be better suited as your stretching partner. So before you grab your brand new four-legged furry training partner and dash out the door for a run, let’s talk about what your dog is built to do.
Dogs, like humans, are all different. We all come in different shapes and sizes and, in many cases, our genetic makeup helps determine what we are best designed to do.
Certain breeds of dogs are meant to run & other breeds, well, not so much.
Good four-legged running partners fall in the category of excitable and like to run and play. Typically, these breeds include Labrador and Golden Retrievers, German Short-haired Pointers, Border Collies, mutts, Schnauzer, Jack Russells, etc.
In comparison, dogs that fall in the “not so much” department, include Boston Terriers, Pekingese, French Bulldogs and English Bulldogs. Additionally, if you have a super lazy dog, it will be as difficult as convincing your super lazy friend to go for a run. Keep in mind, whatever your lazy dog weighs might be what you have to lift and carry back to the car when he decides running isn't his idea of a good time.
I have referenced running but know that dogs can also join you on bike rides (if they have the personality and are properly trained for it; however, I would never suggest taking your dog on a road ride, woods or trails only please).
I ride mountain bikes with a few guys who religiously bring their dogs with them. These four-legged athletes are, in a word, "amazing"! They keep up with the bikes (often racing ahead on the trails), never get in the way or cause chaos and they don't rocket off after a squirrel or anything not outfitted in Lycra. It's almost as if they know they are there to run with the bikes, so it's totally possible to train your dog to join in on a mountain or trail ride.
Two additional points to consider before recruiting your dog as your new workout best friend.
1. If they are excessively muscled, they probably prefer to sprint vs. go for long runs. Greyhounds, Bull Terriers and Boxers fall into this category.
2. If their legs are shorter than their body height (Dachshund) or if they have a smooshed face and tiny little nostrils or pant and slobber a lot when they are just hanging out, sadly, they fall into the running hall of fame "no go" category.
So, how do you get your new training partner ready to workout with you?? The short answer is take it easy!
Pooch Basic Training Tips
Before you start running with your dog, make sure he/she is healthy and ready for the exercise. Dogs that are too old or too young might not be able to handle a running program. In fact, dogs that are younger than 18 months should stick to walking. Puppies' bones are still developing up to 18 months old and running can impact the development of bones for optimal long-term physical integrity. Walking with a younger dog will help build a strong base for a future running program. For dogs that are 18 months or older, start the same way you would. If your dog is new to running, don't set out for a 5-mile run. Start slow and build your mileage together. Consistency over time is the best approach.
How Far To Run
Start with a 10-minute run and then add 10 minutes each week until you reach your desired time or distance. A slow ramp up allows for the muscles and connective tissue to adapt and grow to the activity without injury. With time, your dog will adapt to your pace. Many dogs want to break out into a mad dash, or in total contrast, they may drag a bit behind you, giving you the impression they don't like to run. The dog just doesn't know what he/she is supposed to do. Your job is to teach him to be a runner, so be patient. In time, you will be running side by side at a healthy pace and if a 5K or 10K run is your goal, your dog will be racing you for the finish.
If you or your dog are in need of trail running gear, there are some Get Great Savings on Trail Running Gear at Eastern Mountain Sports (check out this link) (If you buy something through this link, I might earn enough to add a topping to the pizza I plan on ordering).
Leash Training Tips
Dogs that already behave on a leash will smoothly transition to running. A dog that pulls can be a bit of a challenge. Shorten the leash so your dog is forced to run by your side. Over time, she will get the picture and know what to do. Again, have patience.
Your training partners' safety if your responsibility, four things to pay attention to:
1. Heat stroke - The rule of 150 should never be broken.Temperature + Humidity can't be above 150. Per Dr. Justine A. Lee (DVM)
Temperature: 75 Degrees F
Humidity level: 80%
75 + 80 = 155 (too hot to train with FIDO!)
Dogs can overheat more quickly than you will. They have fur, they don't sweat, they don't know how to pace themselves and, most important, they will never tell you "no".
2. Check their pads frequently - Too much running (especially on pavement) can abrade their pads. If you notice any unusual wear or abrasion, bench your pooch until she heals.
3. Soreness - Yup, your training partner can and will get sore just like you do. They can twist a leg or pull a muscle, just like you do. So...start them out slow. A run, walk routine to get your both ready is a great idea. Slowly build up the distance and speed and stay vigilant to any changes in the way your new training partner is moving. This should be fun for both of you, so be sure to keep your pet safe and healthy.
4. Be sure to carry water and snacks for your dog - If you are thirsty, so is your training partner. It's your job to take care of their needs.They is are relying on you.
Last but not least! Reward your training partner.
Your dog's main goal will always be to keep you happy. Her love is unconditional. So be sure to treat your training partner with love in return. Praise is key; dogs love to be praised and have personal contact with you. So rub his head, belly, back...let him know he did a good job. Give her a few treats. God knows she earned it, so give her some special recovery food as a thank you for a great workout. There's a great company called Barkbox (check out this link) that sends out a box of pure fun and edible dog joy. (Yup, if you buy some thing through this link, Colby has already picked out what she wants to order from Barkbox with her tiny commission).
Colby In Recovery Mode
Remember, there’s an athlete inside all of us.
Be safe, have fun. 'Til later
Sarvary
