Does Your Running Partner Have Four Legs?

Boredom Buster Series


Each month Ren’s will give you tips and tricks to help bust through boredom. This month is all about running!


Many people start running for a variety of reasons and 2020 saw a huge spike in outdoor activities, with running being at the top of the list. Running is great for both your physical and mental health and running with a partner can ensure your commitment while also making the exercise more enjoyable. Of course no one said your running partner couldn’t have four legs. Running with your dog can strengthen the bond between you two and allow them to release more energy than they would be able to during a regular walk. So how do you get started? Ren’s has put together a step by step guide to help you teach your dog to run by your side.


Ensure your dog walks with a loose leash

The saying “you have to walk before you can run” is very true in this case. If your dog is prone to pulling or stopping suddenly then they are not ready to start running. To get your dog used to walking with a loose leash you must first get them to stop pulling. A harness will make it more difficult for your dog to pull especially if you clip it to the front. The next step is to stop walking when your dog starts pulling. Many dogs pull because they believe that is the best way to move forward. If you teach them that pulling results in stopping they will stop pulling. If your dog only starts pulling when they see another dog or a person simply turn the other way and say something like “this way”. By using this cue everytime they will understand that this is a command like sit or stay. When they turn and follow you be sure to reward them with their favourite treats. A treat pouch is an effective way to carry treats without having to hold them. The final step is to reward them when they are walking beside you.


Have running commands ready

Just like with any other command, running commands are important when you start running with your dog. Be sure to use simple words that are different from any other command your dog might know. The running command could even be the word “run”. Be sure to also have a command for stopping or slowing down. By teaching your dog these commands it ensures you both stay safe.


Start jogging a short distance

Remember the saying “you have to walk before you can run”? Well you also have to jog before you can run. Before you start the jogging lesson, get some of your dog's energy out by first going on a regular walk or playing a game of fetch. This will help your dog stay focused and calm. Once that is over, pick a place your dog is familiar with, this could be your backyard, park path, or sidewalk. When you start jogging, say your running command and allow your dog to follow. Then shortly after say your stopping or slowly down command. Be sure to praise your dog when they follow your instructions so they know to keep doing that behaviour. You can also reward them with teats, however, make sure they are not moving too fast so that they can properly chew. Treat pouches are a useful tool as they allow your hands to be free and ensure you will not run out of treats too fast. The more often you do this training exercise the faster your dog will learn.


Keep Practicing and Building

Once your dog knows their running commands you can start moving faster and going further distances. Be sure to also carry water with you, as like humans, dogs can become dehydrated as well.


Missing an item that will help train your dog? Ren’s carries all the necessary items to help you train your dog to be your running partner. Check out our running shop below!


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