Your dog and an active lifestyle

If you have difficulty finding a running partner, your dog is the perfect solution. No one will be a more enthusiastic and loyal partner.

Health should be our number one priority, without sport or exercise this is merely impossible. Running with your dog aids in the battle against stress. It’s a relaxant, improves circulation, builds muscle and positively impacts breathing. During running we release endorphins, which enhances mood and general well being. Our 4 legged friends are the best running companions. They’re always available and nearly always willing to go running. Running with your dog gives you and your dog a great sense of satisfaction. This is a great way encourage you to spend time more actively.

Running with your dog makes you closer. It will make your bond stronger, which will make it easier to discipline your dog. 
Running with your dog for a couple of kilometres is a great solution for dogs which require a lot of exercise, or simply for dogs who are bored at home. If your furry companion does not like being alone, then running with them in the morning, before work or school is a great idea. This will allow the dog to get tired, they will therefore sleep the majority of the time you’re not at home as their body need to regenerate, ready for their evening walk. 

I get asked questions about how to run with your dog. It is a good question. Quite often people struggle running with their dogs, but it’s something the dog has to learn. Just like the command, sit. I am no expert, but I will share my experiences and what worked for me, with you. I have a 9-year-old boxer called Zeus. My dog needs a lot of exercise. After his walks he becomes a very calm and chilled dog. 

Can every dog run?
Every healthy dog can run. The size or breed of dog doesn’t matter. What matters is the age. Experts suggest you shouldn’t run with a pup that is younger than one year old as during this period their bone structure continuously and intensively develops. If you are uncertain, consult with your vet. Exercise is a fundamental aspect of your dogs life. Dogs should be exercised daily, however the amount depends on the dogs physical needs. Dogs who are 2-5 years old need more exercise than dogs that are towards the end of their lifespan. 
Before running with your dogs you need to ask yourself a couple of questions. What is my goal? What predispositions does my dog have? Do I want my dog to run leash free, by my side, or working in front of me (Husky)? If the dog is to run leash free he must be very disciplined and focused on listening to your instructions. This means that he will listen to your commands, he won’t run up to other runners, bikers or people walking. I advise you check your local rules as not all areas allow dogs to be leash free. If you want your dog to run by your heel, a loose leash is a good option, or have a tasty treat in your hand. It is essential to positively reinforce your companion for good behaviour.

It’s important to remember that your dog, just like any human, needs time to build their endurance. Don’t run with your dog as soon as you leave the house, take them for a small walk first as they need to full fill their physiological needs. Only then should you begin running. My advice is to jog for a little bit, then walk, then jog, then walk, and continue the this cycle the first couple of times. The next step is to start jogging with your dog for short distances. Gradually increasing them. The dog whisperer, Cesar Millan says the greatest joy for a dog is the ability to leave the house with their pack leader (YOU). If your dog runs in front you need to teach them commands (right, left, forward). 

When to run with your dog?
During summer it’s best to run with your dog in the mornings or evenings. The temperature is then the most suitable for your pup. Avoid running and long walks during the boiling hot days. Choose running courses, which have lots of grassland instead of normal pavements. Hard surfaces negatively impact human joints and the pavement heats up which means your pups paws may get burnt.  Its best to run in places where your dog can jump into a lake or river to cool down. 

Let your dog rest.

During your run, continuously observe your dog. If he is breathing heavily, begins to run slower and slower or doesn’t want to move, you should give yourself and your dog a break. Then return home in a walk.

You shouldn’t put a muzzle on your dog whilst you are running. It inhibits the ability of your dog breathing normally. 
During you breaks remember to hydrate your dog. Always have a bottle of water with you for your dog. 

Huskies in Italy

Me and my family had the amazing opportunity to visit the Husky Village 

This adventure consisted of us being pulled on sledges by huskies through the snowy mountains and forests. It was a very unique experience. Our adventure began by the guide telling us how to control the sledge and what commands to give to the huskies. I could't stop stressing at first as there was so much information to process about the procedure and commands. Nevertheless, I was excited about this new experience. We were all allocated our sledges and pack of dogs. I had to have the strongest dogs as I was the biggest individual in the group. We began shortly after. I shouted a command at the huskies, and they were off. I no longer felt stressed, but happy and taking in the beautiful scenery of the snowy trees and mountains. When we arrived back at the headquarters we had some time to interact with the dogs. I highly recommend this experience as you don't get the opportunity to ride a sledge pulled by husky's everyday.