Running Dogs - An Introduction

You look in the mirror and decide today is the day - it's time you get in shape! Your first goal is to run five miles. You hate running alone.. You look down at your best dog and say, "We're going to do this together!" At your feet rests a teacup Chihuahua. As bizarre as this scenario might be, it proves a point.

In this series of posts in the Dog Cafe, we're taking the time to examine the possibilities of running with your dog.

What makes a dog a running companion? While I used a teacup in the example, the reality is that not all dogs make for runners. Even if she looks like she could be. Athletic trainers take into consideration a person's health conditions prior to creating a workout regiment. Do the same thing for your dog. The first place to always start with your dog should be to ensure she is fully trained for the Structured Walk prior to running with her in any form, and you and your dog should visit your Veterinarian. Have her legs, joints and ligaments examined. Examine to find out if your dog has a healthy heart as many dogs suffer from heart murmurs which make runs impossible. For the running dog, make sure these issues are checked along with your typical annual exam. Just like a runner, make sure the dog's diet is also addressed. Dogs burn calories too.

Is there a general guideline of breeds that are best at running? Yes, some dogs are better built for stamina than others. However, even a highly bred dog used for that purpose alone can develop issues. I raised bird dogs. Having one with three knee operations was proof of that. There should never be an assumption made with your dog's health or build. We hope you have chosen to rescue your dog - this can often mean a mixed breed. Mixed breeds can be just as hearty as the pure breeds. Again, we suggest a visit with your Veterinarian. For an overview of pure bred dogs (PLEASE ADOPT), this list should come in handy from Runners World Magazine.

What are the age parameters? 9 months old to a year (to ensure full bone and muscle development) up to approximately 6 to 7 years old depending on the dog. Your Veterinarian can better help determine when she might need to retire. The most critical phase of a dog's development is in the beginning. Many hip dysplasia issues directly stem from the bone to muscle development.

Why is running my dog a good idea? By now, you have become a champion with our Structured Walks. You know the power of being a pack leader. You have encouraged everyone you know to get rid of their retractable leashes and can explain to them why. If you need a refresher on a step-by-step guide to make this happen, see our Tips on How to Properly Walk Your Dog. The purpose of the Structured Walk is two fold: 1) it works the dog physically, and 2) it works the dog mentally. These are the most important reasons that build the foundation for all other training inside and outside of the home. Dog should be fully trained for the Structured Walk prior to running with her in any form.Training your dog to run besides you, even on a bike, serves the same purpose. Dogs are most balanced when they rely upon you for direction with you in the position of pack leader.

Lastly in this issue, we'll briefly discuss getting prepared with essential active dog items.In brief, consider taking with you the following:

Water bottles, folding canvas water bowl, play items for the middle and/or end of the run, some training treats, and a doggy first aid kit (a great list of items for the kit can be found here from Petfinder). 

When I walk my dog, even while training for the structured walk for balance, I make it a fun experience. Running should be the same way. In the next issue of Running Dogs, we'll examine the details of the physical run. Until then, schedule a visit with your Veterinarian and get prepared.

Survival

As the first posting back to Caffeine in much time, I wanted to dedicate this to you my followers. I have not been in some rehab. I have not been locked away. What I have been doing is restructuring my life. Technically, I’m not even supposed to be here right now… so fuck it! We’ve got just one life to live.

It is the power of survival which moves us.

Regardless of how bad things go, it has been my experience that we have but a mere few options. We can continue on the current road, live life as best we can, and trudge the road to a perceived happiness. Or, we can realize that we have the power to embrace the freedom that has been given us to make our lives magnificent. 

Choose not the road of least resistance. If my life is any example, it has seen its share of painful experiences, the feeling of being let down, missed opportunities, loss, disasters and death… I can add to this list ad infinitum. Each one came with yet another experience. There is never a fall backwards – always a fall forwards provided I was willing to examine the painful situation and become willing to make whatever changes were necessary.

The motivation to change must come from within.

I don’t seek out from others stability. I do carry and keep myself around those with the right attitude. I change based off of my unwillingness to feel pain. I take the observations I see clearly, learn from them and move on. I recognize all that which brings unhappiness. I become willing to do whatever it takes to change that which is unacceptable. I take stock in my current moral inventory. Then fight with all of my might to obtain what I seek.

In the words of a famous musician, I’m not afraid to take a stand. Break out of the cage, stand up, face your demons, and put your life back together right now. If you can dream it, it can come true. Recognize those things which need to be left behind as hard as that is. Then walk through the fire of that life change.

I’m raising the bar on what to expect out of life. Walking through those flames will make you appreciate life and your abilities. What will you do today to make the difference in your life? What are you willing to do to make it happen? I’ve gone to hell and back literally. I had to show up. I had to create the resolve I was going to break the walls down to make it happen.

Will you?