Pets need exercise for almost the same reasons humans do—to keep their minds and bodies active, to prevent obesity and associated health problems, and to enjoy the outdoors. Fortunately, biking is a great way to give your dog the exercise they need while getting some fresh air yourself! While biking with a dog may seem simple enough, there are a few things to keep in mind to make sure the experience is enjoyable for both you and your pup. More importantly, safety should always be a priority when biking with a dog. Let’s get into some of the vet-approved tips on why and how you should bike with your dog.
The benefits of biking for both people and pets are many. Biking is a low-impact activity, meaning it’s gentle on your joints while still providing an excellent cardio workout.
For dogs, biking provides an opportunity to get out and explore the world in a new way. It also gives them a chance to bond with their human companions while getting some much-needed exercise.
Obesity is also a huge problem in the pet population, and biking is an excellent way to help your dog lose weight or maintain a healthy weight (9).
Dogs that are resistant to walking or running may be more open to biking since it’s a non-weight-bearing activity. This is especially true for dogs with arthritis or other joint problems. In this case, having them in a basket or backpack is ideal so they’re not putting any pressure on their joints.
Of course, all of these benefits are contingent on you and your dog being safe while biking. Keep reading for some tips on how to do just that.
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The most important thing to remember when biking with your dog is that safety comes first. That means taking the necessary precautions to ensure both you and your pup are safe and comfortable while on the move.
Here are a few tips to help you do just that:
Dogs are abled differently, and these abilities come down to their breed and genetics. Some dogs are simply better built for biking than others.
For example, short-legged breeds like dachshunds and basset hounds may have a hard time keeping up with you on a bike. Similarly, small breeds may have trouble breathing if they’re going too fast.
On the other hand, athletic breeds like border collies and Australian shepherds were practically born to run (or bike, in this case). These dogs will likely have no problem keeping up with you on a bike.
In addition to their abilities, you should also consider your dog’s health and physical state before taking them on a bike ride.
For example, puppies and senior dogs may not be able to handle the same level of activity as adult dogs. If your dog is pregnant, has joint problems, or is recovering from an injury, biking may not be the best activity for them.
It’s always a good idea to talk to your veterinarian before starting any new exercise regimen with your dog, just to be safe (8).
Bike carriers, baskets, backpacks, or trailers are all options you may consider for your dog that can make biking easier and safer for both of you (1).
An out-of-control puppy or dog that isn’t well-trained can quickly turn a bike ride into a dangerous situation. If your dog is prone to pulling on the leash, darting off after squirrels, or generally not paying attention to you, biking may not be the best activity for them.
You may want to consider some obedience training before taking your dog out on a bike ride. This will help them learn basic commands like “sit,” “stay,” and “come” that can be useful while biking.
Leash training is also important for biking with your dog. Dogs should always be on a leash when biking, and they should be trained to walk alongside you without pulling (2).
This can take some practice, but it’s essential for keeping both you and your dog safe while biking.
Some basic leash training tips include:
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You’re not the only one who needs the right gear for biking – your dog does too! Depending on how you’re biking with your dog, there are certain pieces of gear you may need, to keep both of you safe and comfortable.
For example, if you’re biking with your dog on a leash, you’ll need a harness that fits well and doesn’t restrict their movement. You may also want to consider the kind of leash that attaches to your bike so you can have both hands free.
If you’re using a carrier, basket, or trailer, make sure it’s the right size for your dog and that they’re secured in it properly.
You should also be sure to pack plenty of water and some snacks for your dog, as well as a first-aid kit for yourself and your pup just in case.
A GPS dog tracker can also be a helpful piece of gear, especially if you’re biking in an unfamiliar area. This way, you could keep track of your dog if they happen to run off.
And last but not least, don’t forget your bike gear! Be sure to wear a helmet and proper shoes, and consider investing in some bike gloves to make your ride more comfortable (4) (7).
A dog that’s never been around a bike before may be a little intimidated by the sight and sound of one. It’s important to start slow and let your dog get used to the bike before taking them on a ride (1).
Here are a few tips for getting your dog comfortable with biking:
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The terrain you choose to bike on can make a big difference in how enjoyable the experience is for both you and your dog.
For example, biking on pavement may be too much for some dog’s sensitive paws, and rough terrain like dirt trails could be tough on their joints. When possible, stick to grassy areas or soft surfaces like sand to make the ride more comfortable for your dog.
Of course, the terrain you can bike on will also depend on what type of bike you’re using. A mountain bike, for example, can handle rougher terrain than a road bike.
Whenever possible, it’s best to avoid hot pavement, as this can damage your dog’s paw pads (6). If you must bike on pavement, try to do so early in the morning or later at night when the pavement is cooler.
While biking, the weather can have a big impact on both you and your dog. If it’s too hot, for example, you may not be able to maintain a comfortable pace, and your dog may overheat.
Some signs that your dog is too hot include excessive panting, drooling, lethargy, and dark or bright red tongue (5). If you notice any of these signs, stop immediately and find a cool place for your dog to rest.
Your dog is at risk of heat stroke if their body temperature gets too high, so it’s important to be aware of the weather conditions and take breaks as needed (5).
Some ways to prevent your dog from overheating include:
If it’s too cold outside, you may need to dress your dog in a coat or sweater to keep them warm. You may also want to consider using booties to protect their paws from the cold.
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When biking with your dog, it’s important to be aware of your surroundings at all times. This means keeping an eye out for cars, bikes, and other potential hazards.
You should also be aware of the things your dog is smelling and looking at to make sure they don’t get too excited and try to chase after something. As a reminder, it’s important to keep your dog on a leash whenever possible so you can maintain control over them (2).
If you’re biking in an area with a lot of people or other animals, keep your dog close to you and make sure they’re not getting too overwhelmed.
Some dogs do better when they’re wearing a muzzle while biking so they can’t bark at or bite other people or animals. This is something you may want to consider if your dog is prone to getting too excited when they’re around other people or animals (3).
Biking with your dog can be a great way to bond and get some exercise together. Just be sure to take things slowly, choose the right gear, and obey all the rules of the road. With a little preparation, you and your pup will be biking like pros in no time!
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