Blog Layout

How to Know If Your Dog Is A Natural Runner

Lauren Pescarus • Sep 24, 2020

Best dogs to run with

Dogs can either be our best friends or the source of all our frustration, especially when we come home from a long day at work to a wound spring. Dogs need daily exercise to relieve their pent-up energy, or they will often turn to destructive behaviors out of frustration.

Running, an excellent way to burn a lot of calories in a short period of time, can be the saving grace of many a frustrated dog owner who is tired of coming home to scratched up doors. Want to learn which dogs make the best runners? We have looked into what makes an excellent running partner; breed, personality, and all:



Some Dogs Are Built for Running, Some Aren’t

Due to selective breeding, dogs come in varieties as tall as Great Danes and as small as teacup Chihuahuas. When people first started choosing how to breed dogs, each group started to choose traits that would work best for their needs. That’s why you see dogs that hunt only by smell, dogs that can run faster than people, and dogs that are completely useless for anything except companionship (I’m looking at you, Chinese Crested). This is also why some breeds are natural runners and some will be fine waiting for you on the couch.

Dog breeds who retain their traits as working companions, such as Weimaraners, Border Collies, and many other breeds, all have several characteristics in common. They have a lot of energy that needs an outlet. While high energy is not guaranteed when you have a working breed dog, it is more likely to have a German Shepherd with a need for speed than a bulldog who loves to run.

For those lucky enough to have mutts of mixed parentage, sometimes it is useful to determine their heritage to see whether they come from energetic stock. More likely, though, your mutt will have to show you what kind of personality they have before branding them a running buddy.



Don’t Discount Smaller Breeds

Corgis and poodles don’t have the best reputation for hitting the pavement, but they can benefit just as much from a noontime jog. Just like not all people will be sprinters, not all dogs will be made for marathons. Small breed dogs often have just as pent up energy as their larger cousins. Just because your dog doesn’t reach above your knee doesn’t mean they wouldn’t jump at a jog. Smaller breeds will only need a running partner who will go at a slower pace than may be usual to account for their shorter legs. For slower dogs Denver Dog Joggers offers Leisurely Dog Walks and Fast Paced Dog Walks.



Traits That Make for Good Runners

Luckily, the same traits that make energetic dogs excellent for running are also traits that make for an excellent running partner. When looking for a good running buddy, you want a dog that learns leash manners quickly and can focus on their partner for direction. Dogs who love to run will be energetic, well-trained, and able to focus on goals to make your run productive for you and for your furry friend. After all, who wants to stop and correct a dog who keeps running after squirrels when they are in the middle of their stride?

Most importantly, your dog should be fully grown and healthy. Puppies under one year of age sometimes are still adding inches, making their bones more likely to suffer from the stresses of running. Check with your veterinarian to make sure they are finished growing before choosing to run regularly with your dog to prevent health issues later on. On the other end of the spectrum, older dogs may need a different running program than their younger friends. A slow warm up to loosen their muscles and a shorter routine overall will make your dog just as happy as a marathon.

Dogs who make the best running partners want to run. Dogs who make the best running partners are focused, well-mannered on a leash, and are healthy and fit enough to keep up with their partner. Without a doubt, running is the best form of exercise possible when you have a dog with too much extra energy. If you want to come home to a relaxed and calm dog after a long day at work, look into finding your dog a running partner, today.

Have a potential marathon winner at home? Let us know how your energetic pooch shows you they make a great runner in the comments below!

By Lauren Pescarus

The Run Down

dog running
By Tamara Gilmore 24 Sep, 2020
Dog benefit greatly from daily exercise. Each dog is an individual, so their abilities will dictate the intensity level of their fitness sessions. Our Dog Runners and Dog Walkers are eager to cater to your dog's service needs. We offer dog walking and dog running services in Denver.
dog mess
By Lauren Pescarus 24 Sep, 2020
Your dog is telling you that it needs exercise. Learn what signals to look for that tell you your dog needs more exercise.
puppy nail clip
By Lauren Pescarus 24 Sep, 2020
Taking care of you canine athletes paws is an important part of a successful outing. Learn more about how to set your dog up so it can deliver a peak performance.
denver skyline
By Lauren Pescarus 24 Sep, 2020
Wondering what do with your dog in Denver Colorado? Lucky for you Denver is Pet friendly and ready to show you and your pup some Colorado adventures. Here are some ideas
cool dog swimming
By Lauren Pescarus 23 Sep, 2020
Make smart choices this summer and help to keep your dog as comfortable as possible during your outdoor adventures. Here are our tips for keeping your dog cool.
socializing dogs
By Lauren Pescarus 23 Sep, 2020
Tips for socializing your dog. Socializing a dog is more than just letting your dog interact with a group of other dogs. Read this article to learn more.
swimming dog
By Lauren Pescarus 23 Sep, 2020
Water provides some of the best ways to spend time with your best friend during those hot summer days. This article discusses some considerations before you head out.
Running puppy
By Lauren Pescaurus 17 Sep, 2020
A conservative approach is key when introducing your puppy to an exercise routine. Read this article to learn more about considerations before your hit the road with your puppy.
Dog Ticks Colorado
By Lauren Pescarus 11 Sep, 2020
Is our mostly tick free lifestyle in Denver coming to an end? Reports of an increase in tick numbers are on the rise. What can you do to keep your house , yard and dog tick free?
Sick Dog
By Darlene M 11 Sep, 2020
Wondering if your dog should see a veterinarian? Here are some tell tale signs that not all is well with fido.
Show More
Share by: