How Many Miles Can A Dog Run

Reviewed By Kyoko •  Updated: 09/03/21 •  9 min read
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Running is great exercise for pet parents! It’s also a great activity for your dog! Running wears off energy, which makes dogs tired. They don’t’ become bored and cause mischief (like chewing up the bedspread!).

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Would you like to have a companion for running? Or are you wondering how far your dog can run? Then you’ve come to the right place!

In this article, we’ll take a look at how far a dog can run, along with information to safely jog with your dog, and more.

Visit the Vet for a Checkup

It’s a good idea to take your dog to see the vet before you begin any type of strenuous activity such as jogging, hiking, and more. The goal here to make sure your dog’s healthy enough for such activities. If he’s not, then he could from joint problems, heart issues, etc. And consider that it’s much hard for dogs who are overweight or obese to run.

Another consideration is the age of your fur baby. Puppies and senior dogs really aren’t suited to strenuous exercise such as jogging. Seniors and puppies do much better at walking you. While senior dogs can be injured or suffer health issues from long-haul runs and hikes, the same goes for puppies. Their bones are still forming, and they lack the strength and stamina of an adult dog.

One more thing to factor into the equation is that brachycephalic dogs (they look as if their faces are pushed in) aren’t able to get enough air. They have a very difficult time when the temperature becomes too hot. So, these dogs aren’t really made for running. Instead, take them on a walk.

Back to visiting the vet, just talk with the vet about what you’d like to do (run with your dog) and ask for a complete checkup. If the vet gives you the go-ahead, then you’re all set!

How Far Can a Dog Run?

This depends on the condition, breed, and the age of your dog. Dogs who are fit may be able to run anywhere from 25 to 35 miles a week. And other dogs are able to do about 100 miles in a week. Wow!

Safe Running with Dogs

So, the vet has cleared your canine companion for running and other types of exercise. That’s great! There are also other things to be aware of when taking your fur baby out for a run.

Avoid areas that are filled with rocks, animal holes, uneven surfaces, and more. Rocks are sharp and can cut your dog’s feet. Stepping into an unexpected hole can also injure a leg. So, consider running on a grassy area. The grass is easier on your dog’s joints than running on a hard surface.

It’s OK to run your dog on the street or even sidewalks. However, you’ll need to keep the temperature in mind. As the sun becomes hotter, the pavement heats up. It can become hot enough to burn your canine’s toes and feet. You can test the pavement with your hand. It’s comfortable, then it’s OK for your dog to run. However, if the pavement’s too hot for your hand, then it’s too hot for your fur baby’s feet.

So, when it’s hot outside, choose the cooler parts of the day for your runs. This could be early in the morning or late in the evening. Either way, things will be cooler for you both!

And if you go for long runs, consider taking some water along for your dog. Dog’s don’t sweat as we do and need to stay hydrated when active. You might consider a smaller water bottle like the one below.

AutoDogMug Highwave Leak-Tight 22oz Portable Dog Water Bottle: this bottle carries about 22oz water, so is the perfect size for a normal jog. The bottle is BPA-free and has a leak-tight lock. All you have to do is squeeze the bottle and water fills the bowl! It’s that simple! When the dog’s done drinking, the remaining water will go back into the bottle.

If you’re wondering how to carry that water along on a jog, here’s the Athle Aposrt Running Belt with Vertical Bottle Pocket. This belt can carry a bottle up to 24oz, plus anything else you’d like to carry when you run!

Dog Breeds That Make Great Running Partners

Not every dog breed is made to run, so we’ve put together information on different dog breeds that make great jogging partners.

Dogs Great for Short Runs

Here are some dog breeds that have shorter legs, who are perfect for short runs.

Greyhounds: are some of the fastest dogs around. Keep in mind this breed is great for short jogs. When raced, they do short sprints. Another problem is Greyhounds tend to overheat. So, when taking your fur baby out, be sure to keep an eye on how he’s doing.

Whippets: these dogs strongly resemble Greyhounds but are much smaller. These small dogs are also great sprinters and runners.

Corgis: were bred as working dogs. In fact, they were used for herding cattle and sheep. They do have short legs, but they can run fast. However, they’re really not good long-distance runners because of those short legs. A corgi, however, would be the perfect running partner for short jaunts.

Dogs for Mid- to Long-Distance Runs

Labradors: they were bred as hunting dogs, used to retrieve birds. The dogs had to be fast and then bring the bird back to their pet parents. Surprisingly, Labradors are great endurance dogs that are capable of running several miles a day. The average length of run for this dog is about 10-25 miles.

Australian Shepherds: this is another herding dog that’s highly intelligent and needs to wear off energy. They’re built to run and can easily handle a 4–5-mile jog.

Beagles: as a running dog? It’s true! They are smaller, but they make great runners. This is because they were bred as hunting dogs.

Golden Retrievers: also make a great running partner for long-distance runners. These beautiful dogs love to run, swim, and more. They’re very athletic. A Golden Retriever is able to run about 5-10 miles. However, they don’t do well when temperatures are too high.

Pitbulls: have plenty of energy and endurance. So, they make a great running partner for anyone who likes to run mid- to long-distances. They’re also great at protecting you, as most people are not so eager to get tangled with a Pitbull. They can run between 2-7 miles.

German Shepherds: also make great running pals. They’re very intelligent and loyal dogs, and full of energy. They’re also working dogs. A German Shepherd in most cases will be able to run between 3-8 miles.

Labradoodles & Goldendoodles: these are designer dogs. The Labradoodle is a mix between a Labrador and a Poodle. The Goldendoodles area mix between a Poodle and a Golden Retriever. Both dogs are excellent runners.

Long-Distance Running Dogs

If you prefer longer jaunts, here are some dog breeds that make excellent companions for long-distance running.

Weimaraners: is a breed that originated in Germany, where they were bred as hunting dogs for large game. They’re very athletic and have the stamina needed for more strenuous exercise. This is a dog that will last for quite a while, as they have plenty of energy.

Border Collies: here’s a herding dog that has plenty of energy! But did you know they can also be a great long-distance running partner? Border Collies are very intelligent. They’ve also got plenty of energy and are great athletes. This is a dog that can easily run 90 miles a week.

Dalmatians: are another dog not many people would see as a good long-distance runner. However, these dogs were originally bred to run aside carriages and protect them from outlaws. They have great stamina!

Vizlas: are another great long-distance running dog breed. They were bred to be fast and were used as gun dogs. This is a dog breed that has the endurance to run with you on those longer jaunts.

Running Gear for Dogs & Their Pet Parents

We’ve created a list of running gear for you and your dog! Let’s take a look!

Babyltrl Big Dog Harness No Pull:  when you’re out running, a super comfortable dog harness is the best choice for your dog. This beats a collar, which can choke a dog who wants to run ahead! The harness gives you more control of the dog’s upper body. Plus, you don’t have to worry about choking him. This harness comes in different sizes and has adjustable straps to make the harness comfortable. The straps are reflective, which means your dog will be visible on the sidewalk or when running with you on a street.

Natural Dog Company Paw Soother Trial Stick: this is a dog paw balm and is a trial stick. You can try the product out and then buy a larger size if you and your dog are happy with the effects. Another option is to keep this with you for those hikes, long walks, etc. Keep a stick in the car or in your pocket! This balm is made to soothe rough, chapped, dry doggie paws. It contains moisturizers and is made from vegan sources.

Doco Hands-Free Dog Leash for Running & Walking: this is only a great idea if your dog is leashed trained. If your dog is excitable and runs at everything, is a strong dog, then you may not want to use this product. However, for leash-trained dogs, you’ll have a comfortable running experience without having t hold onto a leash. This is a jogging belt that fits men and women and it’s adjustable for a comfortable fit.

There you have it! We hope this article helps you to determine if your dog’s a good candidate for running. And we wish you both many safe and happy miles together!

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Kyoko

Kyoko is from a family of 3 and moved to New York with her parents and siblings when she was 13. Kyoko is fond of spending a great amount of time with pets, specifically her beagle Luna and cat Missy. Her boyfriend often complains that she spends too much time giving attention to their animals. Kyoko has written dozens of articles concerning pets and is aiming at owning a pet shop one day!

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