Your Best Running Buddy?
Generally, you’re naturally an exercise person or you’re just not. These classifications are not a fixed state, sometimes those of us belonging to the latter category simply need some encouragement to get stuck into exercise. That’s why introducing an animal into your routine, or more specifically a dog is a smart idea.
Why your dog is your best running buddy
For those that need motivation, a dog can be the perfect push! And for those that find exercise natural (so jealous right now), they make wonderful running partners.
First, let’s check out the benefits of running.
Running: The Superior Exercise
Biologically, running is a truly superior exercise.
In fact, studies have shown that not only can it actually change our brains and bodies, but scientists say that our bodies have actually evolved to be good at running.
This means that our physiology, the shape of our hips and feet, the length of our legs, our ability to cool down by sweating, are all perfect for running.
If you think about it, it makes total sense. Humans were initially hunter-gatherers, who tracked their food for miles and needed to be able to run long and short distances in order to hunt and collect food.
Plus, we needed to outrun animals that saw us as food! So, we’re evolved to do it, but what are the benefits?
Benefits of Running
Scientists, doctors, psychiatrists—they all have one thing in common.
They endorse running, saying it can potentially be a miracle drug (consult your physician before beginning any exercise program).
The effects on the mind and the body are astounding. Running can improve cardiovascular health, strengthen bones, ease symptoms of depression, and can even fight cognitive decline.
Better yet, it doesn’t cost a cent to take up running, meaning it’s accessible to anyone, anytime.
The perfect exercise right?
Now, I’m not gonna lie, when you get into running for the first time or get back into it after a long break, it is going to be HARD.
But, after letting your body adjust for a few months, you will begin to enjoy this excellent form of exercise and maybe even become addicted.
Having a canine running buddy can be an excellent motivator, and to be honest, the right dog is just a pure joy to run with! Let’s check out some reasons why.
Top 5 Reasons That Dogs Make the Best Running Partners
Running is great, but running with a dog is even greater! Why? So many reasons, but here are a few reasons your dog is your best running buddy:
1. They Loooove Exercise
Dogs thrive on exercise, really, it’s their ‘Joie de Vivre’, so being taken on a run by their favorite person in the world will totally blow their minds!
2. They’re Motivating
Sometimes, we have the grandest of plans for exercise, but then, left to our own devices they don’t quite eventuate. This is where a dog comes in super handy.
Your dog needs walks, and plenty of them, so why not just turn that dog walk into a run? With a dog, you have a motivating presence to get you out there and active, even if you don’t feel like it.
3. Running with Your Dog is Multi-Tasking at Its Finest
Dogs motivate you to exercise, so by running with your pup you’re effectively and efficiently taking care of your own health and your pet’s.
This means instead of taking your dog for a long walk and then schlepping to the gym, you’re able to multi-task and tick those two off at once. Nice!
4. They’re Dependable
Unlike some running partners, dogs are dependable. They’re always ready to go on a run when you are—at any time of the day or night.
They don’t even sleep through their alarms and send apologetic texts after the fact. Again?
5. They Offer Security and Protection
Another bonus of running with a dog is that they can provide security and safety to their owners, meaning that you can run anytime without fear.
While it shouldn’t need to be like that, it’s nice to have an added layer of safety when running solo.
What Type of Dogs is Good for Running with?
Before you head off sprinting with your Chihuahua in tow, it’s good to know that not all dogs are created equally when it comes to running.
Some breeds don’t do well as running partners, so it’s important to run with the right dog.
While potentially any dog could make a good running companion, many of the best breeds for running are usually working dogs or other intelligent energetic breeds.
Some recommended breeds to go running with include:
- Shetland Sheepdog
- Jack Russel Terrier
- American Staffordshire Terrier
- Labradors
- Standard Poodles
- Boxers
- Kelpies
- Blue Healers
- Border Collies
- Siberian Huskies
- Australian Shepherds
- Rhodesian Ridgebacks
Things to Know Before Running with Your Dog
Before taking your dog for a run, make sure you think about a few things to make it a smooth experience.
Get an appropriate lead so that you can have your hands free while running. Do a test run of the route you intend to take without your dog first, to check if it will work with your hound.
Make sure you take some treats with you too, to keep your pal’s energy up!
Wrap-Up
Exercising with your dog is a fun and mutually beneficial way to shake up your routine, with many benefits.
If you’ve been putting off getting into running, grab your best friend and make a start right now! If you are looking to make your furry friend your ESA, click here for more information!
