It seems many of us are looking to get pup and running as it is marathon season, with searches for ‘running with your dog’ up +100% over the past three months, according to search data. As part of their Pup and Running campaign, Canine Cottages is encouraging dog owners across the UK to explore some of the country’s most beautiful running trails, whilst boosting fitness.
With this in mind, Dr Emma Scales Theobald, Canine Behaviourist and resident dog expert at Canine Cottages, has shared everything dog owners need to know before lacing up their trainers, popping and grabbing their lead.
Taking your dog on a trail run can release “lots of good neurotransmitters” and help maintain a “healthy heart”
The benefits of running for our own mental and physical health are well documented. However, Dr Emma shares that it can also have many great benefits for dogs, both mentally and physically.
She says running “can have a great impact on their overall health, including helping them maintain a healthy weight, healthy heart, strong muscles and flexible joints. Trail runs also have fantastic mental benefits for dogs, providing excellent mental stimulation with all the sights, smell and sounds, and from interacting with their owner. It also releases lots of good neurotransmitters like endorphins, boosting their mood, making them happy and reducing boredom; as well as oxytocin from running with their owner and improving their bond”.
So, how can owners prepare their dog for running for the first time? Dr. Emma shares her top tips below.
1. Slowly build up difficulty over time
“Every dog is different and their ability to cope with a trail route can depend on many factors such as their breed, age, weight, stamina, the route’s terrain and the weather. It’s best to start with a short route and extra rest stops, then slowly build up the distance and difficulty over time.”
2. Create plenty of positive reinforcement
“Bring some treats and give them lots of praise and encouragement. Trail runs can be overstimulating for dogs at first with all the sights, smells, sounds and textures. Particularly if they haven’t been to that location before. When starting trail running, it might take your dog some practice to overcome wanting to stop and smell everything every few steps. You might find it helpful to walk the route with them first to allow them time to stiff everything and become familiar with the surroundings first. You could also offer treats to encourage them to keep running and stay focused on you. As with any new training, it can take a few sessions before your dog learns what to do on a trail run, but with lots of encouragement, treats and praise, they’ll quickly build a positive association and learn. The treats will also help to provide them a little extra energy boost for the run while their body gets used to the new exercise.”
3. Plan plenty of rest stops
“Dogs find running around so fun that they can mask the early signs of being tired, and needing water and a break. It’s therefore important to plan routes and schedule breaks accordingly. Watch for signs that your dog is getting tired and watch their recovery to see if the route was too much for them and needs to be adjusted or not.”
4. Watch for excessive panting or a “stress smile”
“Dogs typically love running and show this through their body language. They will have loose and bouncy body language, with a “wiggly” relaxed movement and a loose wagging tail. They will pant casually, showing a soft “smiling” mouth and can be easily settled. They will be responsive to you and your commands, as well as interested in their environment. Most of all, they’ll be keen to keep running.”
However, it can be harder to tell if they’re getting overexerted or stressed, as the signs can be subtle. These can include excessive panting and/or excessive drooling, and a tense “stress smile”.
They may also lie down but appear unsettled and reluctant to move. If they are not lying down, they may behave erratically or frantically, be difficult to settle, and no longer follow commands they would usually respond to. They might even avoid you and become disinterested in continuing. If they start to show these behaviours on a trail run, it’s important to stop and let your dog rest.
5. Always check paws their paws afterwards
“Quickly check their paws after every run to make sure there aren’t any cuts or sores, or anything trapped between the pads, such as small stones.”
Commenting, Sarah Pring, Digital PR Manager at Canine Cottages, said, “As the ‘runcation’ trend continues to rise, we’re seeing a growing number of people embracing outdoor holidays to explore the beauty of the UK at their own pace, and with their dogs by their side. The UK is home to so many breathtaking spots, from scenic woodland trails to captivating coastal routes, which provide a scenic backdrop for your fitness journey. These holidays allow travellers to connect with nature, enjoy fresh air, and experience the UK’s stunning landscapes in a whole new way.”
To view research on the UK’s best dog-friendly running spots, please visit: https://www.caninecottages.co.uk/guides/dog-friendly-trail-running
Photo by gabesdotphotos photographer: https://www.pexels.com/photo/a-person-and-brown-dog-running-together-11512085/
