In spring, the first rays of sunshine draw us all outside and activities with our dogs are twice as much fun! Then you also see again many people who lead their dog on the wheel. If you follow some important points, this is a great workout for your dog and a nice hobby to do together. The musculature is built up and strength and condition of your dog is trained. The cardiovascular system is also trained and, as with us humans, sport puts you in a good mood!
To ensure that cycling with a dog is actually healthy, I recommend that you keep the following points in mind in any case:
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When is cycling with a dog taboo?
First of all, let’s look at the cases where your dog should never accompany you on the bike. This is the case if he is very overweight, he is growing (younger than 12-18 mon.) or very old. Even if your dog is suffering from pain, he should not run on the bike. But even if your four-legged friend is in poor health, he does not belong on the bike. Further, I recommend against running on the bike for very large, bulky dogs. Likewise, if you have a very small dog (with a long back). Your physique is simply not made for running on a bike.
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The equipment
It is best to lead your dog on a well-fitting harness that does not cut in. Thus, movements are possible to the fullest extent without the harness being a hindrance. Make sure the leash hangs loosely. You should not let your dog pull you by the wheel.
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The preparation cycling with dog
Please do not feed your dog before training. Running with a full belly is not good and you run health risks, such as gastric torsion. The cardiovascular system is also overly stressed. Optimally, your dog should have disengaged from the wheel before running.
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Warm up
Warm up your dog briefly before you go. This way you warm up the muscles and joints and reduce the risk of injury. When the dog’s body is warmed up, it is more elastic and can handle abrupt movements better. Also mentally prepares your dog so and is more focused. Here you will find suitable exercises for warming up: WARM UP – THIS IS HOW IT WORKS
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The underground
A soft, springy surface is great for running on the bike. Asphalt and gravel are less recommended, because the joints are much more stressed. Especially if your dog suffers from joint disease, be careful here. Forest and field paths are perfect for your tours. Movements are optimally cushioned here.
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The right workload
Especially after the winter break or as a beginner, the first units should be short and slowly increased. Build the workout slowly and sensibly. Start with a few minutes at a trot and then switch to a walk. Then follows the next unit at a trot. Give your dog a chance to build up condition slowly and healthily.
The trot is the optimal gait to run on the bike, because it protects the joints the best and is also the most energy-saving gait. You should always adjust the pace to the size of your dog. Long distances at a gallop are not good for your dog’s joints. If your dog slows down and switches to walking or pants heavily, please give him a break or stop training immediately.
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Watch your dog carefully
Are his movements and activity after running on the bike as usual? Does he move sluggishly or is conspicuously still? If so, you may have overworked him, because even dogs can get painful muscle soreness if they run too fast or too long. Then be sure to adjust the training load.
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Breaks are important
Train at most every other day. This gives the body the necessary time to recover and the muscles only build up during these breaks. Cycling with dog
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Cycling in the heat is taboo!
Running on a bike in high temperatures is extremely taxing on your dog and his cardiovascular system. Your dog is not cooled by the wind and it is warmer near the ground than at saddle height. In addition, the asphalt heats up, which can quickly become painful for your dog’s paws. So be sure to ride your bike in the early morning or late evening during the summer months. Otherwise, you are putting your dog at serious health risk. biking with dog
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Cooling and refreshment on the road
Give your dog breaks even while running. A dip in the lake or stream can be a welcome cool down if your dog has had a brief moment to cool down beforehand. On your outings, be sure to always have water for you and your dog to avoid overheating.
All the love, your Tina
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