A Complete Guide to Running with Your Dog
Tips, gear, and training advice
July 4th, 2025
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Running by yourself is fun, but running with your dog is better! There’s no easier way to get your and your dog’s exercise in at the same time.
A tired dog is a good dog, and taking your dog running with you has a myriad of benefits. From keeping them at a healthy weight to offering mental enrichment, running with your dog is a rewarding activity for you both. It’s also a great way to spend time together and build up your relationship.
Like hiking with your dog or getting started running yourself, there’s a lot to think about before taking your pup for their first jog. Health and breed suitability, age, training, and gear are all things to consider before you and your dog hit the road or trail.
As a certified professional dog trainer (CPDT-KA), longtime canine product tester, and someone who would never work out if a dog wasn’t included, I have tips, tricks, and gear recommendations for anyone who wants to spend more time outside jogging with their dog.
Who wouldn’t want to have this much fun? Credit: Jae Thomas
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Dog Running Gear Checklist
| DOG GEAR ITEM | PRODUCTS WE LIKE |
|---|---|
| Hands-Free Running Belt and Leash | |
| Non-stop dogwear CaniX Belt | |
| Non-stop dogwear Bungee Leash | |
| Ruffwear Trail Runner Belt | |
| Ruffwear Trail Runner Dog Leash |
Is your dog ready to run?
When to check with a vet
Always check with a vet before running with your dog and before starting a training program. Your vet will check your dog for normal range of motion, and can discuss what’s appropriate for your dog’s age, weight, and health status. If your dog is over or under weight, your vet may recommend working on getting your dog to a good baseline weight before beginning to run.
Age, health, and breed suitability
Your dog’s age, health status, and breed will partially dictate if they’re suitable to be a running companion. Dogs under one to two years old should not run regularly, as their growth plates are still open and this could damage their development. Older dogs also may have pre-existing conditions that can prevent them from running.
Avoid jumping into running with any dog that has conditions like hip or elbow dysplasia, or any dog who is overweight. If your dog has weight concerns, talk to a vet before starting any new activity training plans.
Some breeds are better for running than others, too. Sporting and working breeds that were bred to run far and often like German Shorthaired Pointers, Viszlas, and Huskies are great long-distance running companions for serious runners. Active breeds like Collies, Labs, and Goldens are typically happy to go on runs a few times per week, and many mixed breed dogs are energetic enough to be great running buddies, too.
Long-backed breeds, brachycephalic breeds, and heavy breeds may not be suitable to jog with you due to heat intolerance and breathing issues. This includes Basset Hounds, Dachshunds, Pugs, Bulldogs, French Bulldogs, and more.
Training tips for running with your dog
Transitioning from walks to runs and building duration
Build up the duration on your dog’s regular walks up to a few miles. Once you have walking duration down, you can start peppering in a few minutes of jogging. Jog with your dog for a minute or so, then return to walking. Slowly increase the amount of minutes your dog is jogging during their walk over time, and don’t push your dog if they don’t want to run.
Teaching leash manners and cues
Teaching your dog to run in front of you is a lot of fun, and it gives you a speed boost! Credit: Jae Thomas
Decide if you plan to teach your dog to pull out in front of you canicross style (also helpful if you want to train your dog to skijor or bikejor) or run next to you in heel position. If you want your dog to pull out in front of you, the following cues are helpful: stand/stay, line out (pull out in front), right and left turn cues, slow down, and “on by” (passing people, dogs, or other distractions).
If you plan on having your dog run next to you, reinforce your dog with treats every time they’re in the heel position at your hip. You can name this position “heel” or “with me” and ensure that you don’t allow your dog to break out of the position until you release them with a release cue, like “release” or “free.”
Using positive reinforcement
Reinforce your dog with treats or toys while training them to run with you. Always make sure that your dog is having a good time and is being rewarded whenever they’re in the right position.
What NOT to do
Never leash pop your dog (tugging on the leash to get them in the right position), yell at them, or force them to run if they don’t want to. Running with your dog should be a fun activity for you both, and punishing your dog while training will cause them to have negative associations with running.
Essential running gear for dogs and humans
Here’s what you’ll need to run safely and comfortably together:
Hands-free running leash and waist belt
A well-fitted running belt keeps pressure off your lower back, and a bungee leash absorbs shock. Credit: Jae Thomas
What to look for:
If your dog is doing any kind of pulling while you run together, you’ll need a bungee leash. Running with a static leash will feel much less smooth for both you and your dog–if you or your pup stops abruptly or makes a sudden turn, a static leash will feel jolty. A bungee leash does a much better job with shock absorption (and can also keep them safe physically).
If your dog is a strong puller, opt for a leash that is 100% bungee. If your dog is a light puller or doesn’t pull much, a leash with bungee segments works well.
Adding a canicross-style running belt to your bungee leash will make it hands-free and can take pressure off your lower back by distributing your dog’s pull force more evenly. For dogs who don’t pull much, a simpler running belt, like the Ruffwear Trail Runner does the trick.
Most dog running belts have one or two pockets to stash your phone and poop bags.
Recommendations:
If your dog doesn’t pull much, a simpler running belt like this Ruffwear option works well. Credit: Jae Thomas
Running harness for comfort and control
What to look for:
The type of harness you choose will depend on your dog’s running style. If your dog is a strong puller, opt for an x-back style canicross harness. If your dog is a light puller or tends to run alongside you, a well-fitting hiking harness will work.
Always make sure your dog’s harness allows for proper range of motion. Avoid “no-pull” style front-clip harnesses that cut across your dog’s shoulders at a 90 degree angle in the front, as this will severely restrict your dog’s range of motion and could cause orthopedic issues down the line. Also pick a harness that doesn’t cut into their armpits to avoid chafing.
If your dog’s harness bunches up, turns while they’re wearing it, or puts undue pressure anywhere on your dog’s body, it likely doesn’t fit properly. Consider trying a different size or a different brand of harness if you experience these issues.
Reflective elements on your dog’s harness will keep them visible in low-light conditions.
Recommendations:
A running harness safely distributes the force of your dog’s pulling. Credit: Jae Thomas
HydratHydration pack and collapsible dog bowl
What to look for:
Sharing water with your dog is easy with a running hydration vest—just add on a lightweight collapsible dog bowl you can bring along for the run. Some folks like bringing a dedicated dog water bottle, I find them too heavy and cumbersome for running.
Sharing water with your dog is easy, just bring a water bowl in addition to water for you. Credit: Jae Thomas
Any collapsible dog water bowl will work, as long as it’s small. Big water bowls take up too much valuable water, and your dog will waste more water if you have to fill up a big bowl every time you stop for a drink. Honestly, most collapsible bowls are similar quality, so buy one at your local pet store or simply get one from Amazon.
Recommendation:
Running is hard work. Credit: Jae Thomas
Dog running booties for rough or icy terrain
What to look for:
Dogs sweat through their paws, so be mindful of the weather before putting boots on your dog. If it’s too warm, boots could actually cause your dog to overheat. If your dog absolutely needs dog shoes for rough terrain, pick a sock-style boot that’s flexible enough for them to keep their balance, but durable enough not to get wrecked by rocks or rough trails.
If you’re running on snow-packed trails during winter, opt for a mushing-style fabric sock bootie to keep your dog’s paws from getting too cold.
Though there are plenty of dog booties for hot pavement, but if your dog needs boots to protect their paws from the heat, it’s likely too hot to be running with your dog.
Recommendations:
Light for your dog
What to look for:
If you’re running at dawn/dusk/night, keeping your dog visible is a good idea—especially if you’re off leash. Opting for a dog light that oncoming traffic, people, other dogs, and you can see will help keep your pup safe. We also recommend checking our Best Reflective Gear for Running in the Dark guide.
Recommendation:
Other Gear (Optional)
Cooling vest, GPS collar, ID tag
If it’s warm out and you have a short, single-coated dog, a dog cooling vest, like the Ruffwear Swamp Cooler Dog Vest, can help keep them at a good temperature through evaporative cooling. This is especially true for dogs with dark (brown or black) coats, which tend to heat up in the sun.
Dog cooling vests work best if your dog is running off leash with you, as they’re not as effective when used over or under a harness.
Dog cooling vests are most helpful in hot, dry climates. Credit: Jae Thomas
If you plan on having your dog off-leash while you run, ensure your dog has an ID tag or collar with your phone number and/or address on it. The Orvis Personalized Reflective Dog Collar is a good option to keep your dog visible. You can have your dog’s name and your phone number embroidered onto it in case they get lost.
A customized collar with your dog’s name and your phone number is ideal if you don’t want to worry about tags. Credit: Jae Thomas
A GPS dog collar is also handy to keep track of your dog’s activity and location.
Running conditions: terrain and weather tips
Road vs. trail running with a dog
Trail running is generally better than road running for dogs. Dirt and grass surfaces are easier on your dog’s joints, and have less of a risk for burning your dog’s paw pads. If you’re planning on road running with your dog, ensure they have a good warm up and cool down, and try to run at times when the asphalt won’t be too hot for their paws.
Heat safety: signs of overheating and paw protection
According to VCA Animal Hospitals, the main symptoms of heat stroke and heat exhaustion in dogs are excessive panting, dry/sticky gums, abnormal gum color, disorientation, and lethargy. If you notice any of these symptoms, stop your run and aim to cool your dog down while on your way to seek vet care.
If it’s hot enough that you’re considering putting boots on your dog to protect them from hot surfaces, it’s too hot to run with your dog. Wait until early morning or late evening when it cools down to take your dog for a jog.
Cold weather: jackets and booties
In extreme cold weather, putting a dog jacket on your dog before a run can help warm them up and keep their muscles warm during a run. If you’re planning on running in the snow or on icy trails, mushing-style booties can help protect your pup’s paws from the cold.
Hydration strategy
How often you offer your dog water while running will depend on your dog’s heat tolerance, their conditioning level, and their size. You can aim to offer your pup water every 15-20 minutes while running, or sooner if they seem thirsty. Check out our Best Running Hydration Vests and Best Running Backpacks guides for comfortable water carry options.
Keep your pup hydrated while running. Credit: Jae Thomas
How to tell when your dog needs a break
Physical and behavioral cues
If your dog starts dragging behind you or showing any other stress signals, you may have reached the end of the run. If your dog is reactive and is stressed out by bikes, other people, or dogs you may see while running, it may be best to work on the reactivity before running regularly so as not to stress your dog out.
Cooling down and post-run care
Try to walk your dog for at least 10-15 minutes as a cool down after running. Let them catch their breath and cool down—and avoid sticking them in a crate right after a run. Cooling down properly will reduce the risk of injuries and muscle soreness, and will help your pup regulate their body temperature.
Adding in a few canine conditioning-style stretches after walking your dog to cool them down is a good way to prevent injuries and muscle soreness as well. Just as humans should stretch after a strenuous workout, it’s helpful for dogs to stretch too.
Some good ones are “cookie stretches,” where you use a food lure to turn your dog’s head side to side, which stretches their spine, neck, and shoulders. “C stretches,” where you lure your dog’s head between their front legs, warms up their neck, and downward dog stretches loosen up their hips and legs.
When to stop or call it a day
If your dog at any point starts limping, showing stress signals, or has any signs of overheating, stop immediately. Check your dog’s paws often throughout your run to ensure they aren’t burning or getting damaged by the running surface.
Common mistakes to avoid
Skipping training or warm-up
Moving straight into running without properly conditioning your dog or warming them up is a recipe for injury or muscle soreness. Ensure your dog is used to jogging and slowly increase the distance they run with you. For properly conditioned dogs, warm your dog up for 10-15 minutes before running to increase their performance and decrease the risk of muscle soreness and overuse injuries.
Using the wrong harness
Never use a “no-pull” harness when running with your dog. These types of harnesses often cut across your dog’s shoulders at a 90 degree angle in the front, and restrict range of motion. These types of harnesses aren’t typically recommended by vets or trainers for walking, and running with one puts even more stress on your dog’s front end, and could cause orthopedic issues if used frequently.
The Non-stop dogwear Freemotion Harness is a favorite among my friends who trail run and do canicross with their dogs. Credit: Devin Walker
Running in extreme temperatures
Generally, dogs are more prone to overheating than humans since they don’t sweat like we do. Panting and releasing heat through their paws is the only way they can cool down, so hot temperatures will affect them more than us. Even if it doesn’t feel too warm for you to go for a run, it may be too hot for your dog.
During the summer, opt for early morning or late evening runs with your dog to keep them out of the heat.
Ignoring trail and park rules
Ignoring dog-related rules on trails and in parks can not only lead to tickets and fines, you can also ruin dog-friendly trails for other people. Following rules, keeping your dog on leash, ensuring your dog has a valid license and cleaning up after your dog ensures that dog owners can frequent outdoor areas with their pups for years to come.
Dog running etiquette
Leash laws and public space awareness
Always be aware of local dog regulations and leash laws before taking your dog out on a run. If dogs aren’t allowed on specific trails, avoid that trail. If dogs must be leashed, ensure your dog stays leashed up. Dog regulations on trails are often in place to protect the environment, so ignoring regulations can not only get you a hefty fine, but it can also disrupt wildlife.
Passing people and dogs
Not all people or dogs want to interact with your dog, and that’s OK! Ensure your dog is leashed up or under voice control when other people and dogs pass by. Pulling off to the side of the trail to let people pass is always a good idea, too.
Cleaning up and minimizing your impact
Always clean up after your dog when running with them, and please don’t leave your poop bags on the trail “for when you come back.” You’re not only littering on trail, but you’re highly likely to forget the poop bag, and someone else will end up cleaning it up for you…or not.
You can also help minimize impact while running with your dog by ensuring your dog stays on the trail, making sure they don’t walk or run over native plants, not allowing digging, and making sure they don’t chase wildlife.
About the Author / Why you should trust us
For about a year, Jae worked as a kennel and show assistant for an Alaskan Malamute breeder, and often ran with the Malamutes to keep them in working condition. Malamutes are driven working breeds who need a job, and the dogs Jae ran with often ran up to 7 miles with her. Jae alternated between teaching the dogs to run next to her and to pull out in front, canicross style.
Jae Thomas is an e-commerce journalist, editor, and dog trainer based in Colorado. She graduated from the New York University journalism program in 2020, and has written and edited commerce content for publications like Mashable, Apartment Therapy, Bon Appetít, Whole Dog Journal, Chewy, CNN Underscored, and more.
Jae is a Certified Professional Dog Trainer, Knowledge Assessed, and teaches agility, rally, and other dog sports at Canine Athletics Training Center in Boulder County. Jae uses her background in dog sports and behavior to test outdoor-focused dog gear focused on fit, comfort, safety, and functionality for dogs and their owners.
Jae shares her life with two dogs: mixed breed Miso, and Rough Collie, Dashi. Jae competes in conformation, agility, rally, herding, barn hunt, Fast CAT, and other sports with her dogs and is a pro at traveling, camping, hiking, and adventuring with canine companions in tow.
