Running with Dogs?

A few runners in my neighbourhood run with their dogs.  I think they do it to exercise their dogs.  I wonder if their dogs enjoy it?

For running to have any benefits you need to keep running for a minimum of 30 minutes.  Generally at a ‘good’ pace.  In other words, not jogging.  Most of the runners I see have dogs who seem to be loping along but they all seem to be panting.  

In the warm summer months, even in the cooler morning hours, I have to believe it is uncomfortable for the dog.  We runners can wear less clothes but a dog generally can’t shed his/her coat to cool down.

I’ve seen oblivious runners cause their dogs discomfort when their dogs stop suddenly or veer from the running path.  Ouch…that’s gotta hurt the dog’s neck no matter how large the dog.

I don’t see the point of running with your dog.  If you focus on your running, you ignore your dog;  if you focus on your dog you have a sloppy run.  Seems like multi-tasking gone wrong. 

Take your dog to the leash-free dog park for a run.  Take your dog for a walk.  Leave your dog at home when you go running!

Until next time...

ThatRunninGuy