A Dog's Advice: How to Tell if I'm Enjoying my Run

Do you wonder if your dog enjoys running with you?

Woof! 🐾 It’s Clover here, your trail-loving running buddy! If you’re wondering whether your dog enjoys hitting the trails or pavement with you, let me give you some insight from a fellow four-legged perspective. 🐶🏃‍♂️

[Affiliate links to products earn a commission that helps us keep working for you! Please support our work by using the provided links!]

How to Tell If We’re Loving the Run:

I Get Super Excited When You Grab the Leash: If your pup is anything like me, the moment you put on your running shoes or socks or reach for the leash, I’m already wagging my tail and doing a little happy dance! That’s a surefire sign we’re pumped for the adventure ahead. The socks are my jam!
I Keep a Steady Pace: When we’re out running, if I’m trotting along happily by your side or even leading the way, that means I’m having a blast! A smiley face, relaxed ears, and a wagging tail are all indicators that I’m enjoying myself.
I Look Happy and Relaxed Afterwards: After a good run, you’ll usually find me stretching out, catching my breath with a big smile, and maybe even flopping down for a well-deserved nap. That’s my way of saying, “Wow, that was fun!”

Signs I Might Need a Break:

Lagging Behind or Stopping: If I’m slowing down, pulling back, or stopping frequently, I might be telling you I’m a bit tired or that the pace is too fast for me today.
Heavy Panting: When I’m panting a lot or drooling more than usual, it could be a sign I’m getting overheated or need a water break. It’s hard work keeping up with your two-legged pace!
Avoiding the Leash: If I’m hiding or looking uninterested when you get ready to run, I might be saying, “Can we just take it easy today?”

How to Make Our Runs More Fun:

Ease Me Into It: Just like you need to warm up, I need time to build my stamina too. Start slow, and let’s gradually pick up the pace.
Pick the Right Path: I love soft trails under my paws! Pavement can be tough on us, so whenever you can, let’s stick to grassy or dirt paths.
Bring Water: I get thirsty too, so it’s always nice when you bring some water for us both! I've learned how to drink from a water bottle, but my human also carries a collapsible bowl when we run. I drink the extra water that spills into the bowl while we're on the trail, and I have my own water bottle when we travel.
Watch the Weather: Remember, I’ve got a fur coat on—hot days can be rough for me, so cooler mornings or evenings are ideal. Do your summer lunchtime runs solo, please! My human got me a cooling vest for hot days, and I love it.

In short, most of us dogs love running with our humans—it’s quality time together, and we get to explore all those amazing smells! Just keep an eye on us to make sure we’re having as much fun as you are. Now, who’s ready for a trail run? 🐕🌲🏞️