Having two very large and active dogs, I can attest to the benefits of getting enough exercise. Not only is it healthy for them, and us, but I find Maggie & Otis are much better behaved if they are letting off some extra steam. (There’s not enough energy left over after a nice 2.5-mile walk or extra-long ball-chasing session to get into trouble around the house!)

So I found this New York Times article interesting.

Unfortunately, Maggie & Otis aren’t getting many runs lately, as I am 8 months pregnant. Also, Maggie is getting older and it’s harder for her to keep up a brisk pace even during walks. The mind & heart are eager, but her body isn’t quite on board anymore. Otis, on the other hand, loves to run, as Maggie did in her youth, and gets especially excited when joggers pass us on our walks. I may have to corral one of my running neighbors soon!

As noted in the article, if you are going to run with your dog or have someone else take them out for a spin, pay attention for signs of exhaustion. We always built up slowly in pace and distance and avoided the hottest time of the day during the summer. Make sure your dogs are hydrated and have plenty of water available for them. Don’t feed them right before or after a run; give them time to cool down. And watch their feet for wear & tear and other signs of injury. And depending on your dog, keep alert for potential distraction that could cause breaks. Otis has a horrible habit of trying to cross in front of me when we’re running so I’m watchful of not tripping over him.

Does anyone else run with their dog(s)? What do you enjoy about it? Any other tips to share?