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Arthritis and Joint Pain Super Relief Kit

Old Timer, Turmeric & Yucca

USD $137.85
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Dog Running or Walking: Safety Tips

Pet Care Tips 4 min read
Young male dog walker walking five dogs and may also be Running with Dog along suburban street

Who doesn’t love to see a dog running free and having fun? But let’s take a closer look at that scene. You’re walking your little one on this beautiful trail, strolling carefree. The very next moment, your pup runs off chasing squirrels, and you’re losing control of the leash. Sounds familiar? Yes, seeing your little one zooming around all happy could sometimes be endearing. But it could also risk their, your, and other’s safety.

That being said, walking or running with a dog can be dangerous if the right precautions aren’t being considered — but what is the right way? Here are some easy tips to help keep our pups’ workout sesh safe for everyone around. 

Should I Encourage My Dog to Run?

Certain dog breeds aren’t well-suited for jogging due to their physical traits. For instance, brachycephalic breeds like pugs may struggle with breathing during exercise, while small breeds like chihuahuas may find jogging too intense and risk injury.

Puppies under one year old may not be suited for high-impact exercises because their bones and joints have not fully developed yet.

Additionally, we generally don’t recommend encouraging dog running if your little one has joint issues. This is because running or any other rigorous exercise may worsen the condition. For example, jogging may not be suitable for giant breeds like Great Danes because it could worsen their joint and skeletal issues, which are common problems in bigger dogs.

Light exercise and natural joint support like NHV Old Timer and NHV Turmeric can be very beneficial to your pup with arthritis or musculoskeletal conditions! These vet-formulated supplements have anti-inflammatory properties and may help manage your pup’s joint and muscle discomfort.

Lastly, puppies under one year old may not be suited for high-impact exercises because their bones and joints have yet to develop fully.

Essential Prep Tips for Dog Running & Walking

Before you do anything physical with your pup, you should consult and get clearance from a veterinarian first. Let a professional access your pet’s health and discuss appropriate exercise plans with them based on your little one’s specific needs. Once you have the okay to start your dog running or walking experience, keep these tips in mind:

Tailor Running Distance & Intensity to Your Pup

We talked about how some pup breeds aren’t suited for running, but even among dog breeds suitable for running, it’s crucial to understand their preferences in running styles!

Australian Shepherds, for instance, make excellent jogging companions due to their high activity levels. This type of dog typically excels in endurance and can easily keep up with long-distance running. So, if you’re training for marathons and happen to be an Aussie pawrent, you’re in luck!

Training with Voice Commands

a woman running with dog stops and standing beside her dog with secured harness and leash

Voice commands like the simple “sit” and “stay” can be very helpful during your strolls and jogs with your furkid. In the course of the walk, your pup will experience new sights, smells, and sounds. It is only natural to get excited when they encounter something intriguing. They might end up rushing towards other dogs, people, birds, or squirrels. Having voice cues can help keep them safe and make your trip less chaotic. It’s also essential to train your pup enough prior to the walk/run so they will listen and respond to your instructions.

On top of that, calming supplements like NHV Lesstress can help your pet’s excitability or anxiety during these outings. This herbal formula acts on their nervous system and helps to reduce hyperactivity.

Dog Running or Walking in Different Seasons

Extreme Summer and Winter weather may not be the right time to take your pup on long trips. Hottest days can cause heatstroke, while the coldest days with snow and ice can cause paw pad injuries. Take these factors into consideration to avoid accidents.

Know Your Route

Like many things in life, remember to do your research beforehand. Your path for the day should preferably be well-lit and not in the middle of nowhere. See if the area has a lot of rough ground or steep slopes because those could be hard on your dog’s joints. So, if you can, pick grassy regions or dirt trails to run on instead. And if you’re walking or running around your neighborhood, be mindful of the traffic.

Pack the Right Gear for Dog Running or Walking

A sturdy 4-6 foot leash attached to a well-fitting collar or harness is crucial for controlling your playful pup. Wrap the leash around your palm to avoid slipping. Also, we recommend opting for a short leash for better restraint, especially in potentially challenging routes.

Attach an ID tag with your dog’s name and your phone number to the collar for quick identification, in case of separation. However, since collar tags can be lost, you may also consider inserting a microchip under your furkid’s skin. They hold critical identification information and can aid in reuniting pups to their furmilies.


All in all, dog running and walking are great exercises to help keep your little one healthy! With the preparation, precaution, and supplement support, you and your pup can both enjoy the scenery in peace and with ease. If you have any other questions or concerns before going on your next outdoor adventure with your little one, please feel free to reach out. Our pet experts can help you with them! Happy jogging, everypawdy.

NHV Pet Experts

NHV Pet Experts

We have a dedicated group of pet expert professionals, including veterinarians, vet techs, and other pet professionals to guide you through any questions. We’re committed to your pet’s wellness and can offer additional tips, resources, nutritional advice, and more.

Published: October 3, 2023

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