When faced with cold temperatures, icy terrain, and shorter days, motivation to exercise can be hard to find in the winter. If you’re an avid runner looking for a bit of extra encouragement to get out the door, your dog can serve as a solid training partner and an inspiration boost. Pups need daily exercise to maintain their weight and stay stimulated—which ultimately leads to better behavior—and that necessity doesn’t change when the temps drop. If you have an age- and breed-appropriate pet suited for running, follow these tips to get the most out of your snowy mileage.
- Make Sure Running is a Good (and Safe) Idea
From English Bulldogs to Corgis to Great Danes, not all breeds have a genetic makeup appropriate for running very long distances. And depending on their age, puppies of all kids may not be ready to tackle a jog yet, and running with them too early could stunt their growth. The general rule of thumb is five minutes of exercise per month of age, says certified dog trainer Siri Zakaras, who owns Life’s Trail Dog Training in Park City, Utah, but that truly depends on the breed. Larger, energetic dogs that are bred for athletic endeavors (hunting, working) tend to be the most natural runners—such as Huskies, Labs, Retrievers, and Cattle Dogs—but keep in mind that it’s possible that your specific pet may not have a tolerance for cold weather. If you’re unsure, check with your veterinarian first….
