A question of race and morphology
Contrary to popular belief, not all dog breeds are cut out for running long distances and not all dogs are able to accompany their owner on their jogging session.
In reality, the ability of dogs to run long distances is largely related to their morphological characteristics and what their breed was originally developed for.
For example, Huskies have the ability to run long as their breed was specifically developed for their endurance and ability to pull sleds over long distances.Australian Shepherds or White Swiss Shepherds can also follow their master on their jogs as they have been specifically bred to spend long days in the fields herding and herding herds.
More generally, dogs of medium to large breeds, with long legs and light morphology will have an easier time following their master while jogging.
On the other hand, some dog breeds are not suitable for running at all. These include pugs, bulldogs, French bulldogs, boxers, Pekingese, shih tzus and any other dog with a flattened muzzle and flattened face that is grouped under the group of brachycephalic dogs. These dogs have narrower airways and they exhibit breathing difficulties that are accentuated by physical exercise and heat. It is therefore not safe for these dogs to run for an extended period of time.
Small dogs or short-legged dogs like the Corgi or Basset hound also have a harder time keeping up with humans when it comes to running long distances. They are obviously able to run but may struggle to keep up with their owner on a long run.
Don't try to take a big, heavy dog for long runs either, he just isn't made for that and you might hurt him.
A question of age
Even if your dog is "cut" for running, you should avoid taking him for a long run if he is too young or too old.
Puppies that are not fully grown, and whose bones and joints are still developing, can suffer permanent musculoskeletal damage if they start running too early.
In general, a puppy should not accompany his/her owner in his jogging until he has finished growing.Generally, it is not advisable to take a medium breed dog for a run before the age of 8 months, or even later for large dogs. The best way to determine if your dog is big enough to start running alongside you is to ask your veterinarian for advice. This will be able to determine if your dog's growth plates have closed enough for him to run safely.
Over-aged dogs may also find it more difficult to run. First of all, they no longer have the same endurance as younger dogs, and pathologies can develop with age that make physical activity more difficult, painful or even more risky for their he alth.
If your dog is older, have him checked regularly by a veterinarian to ensure your dog is still able to keep up with you over long distances.
A matter of he alth
Whatever the age of your dog and the breed of your dog, it is best to always ask your veterinarian for advice before taking your dog for a run with you.
All dogs are indeed likely to suffer from he alth problems that would make this activity particularly dangerous or inappropriate.
Heart, respiratory, muscular, bone, joint problems as well as obesity problems can indeed constitute contraindications for your dog.
Take advantage of a visit to your veterinarian, such as your dog's annual vaccination consultation, to take stock with your veterinarian and give your pet a little check-up to check that he is well able to accompany you in your sporting activities.
A matter of weather
Whatever your dog's physical abilities and state of he alth, you should always consider the outside temperature before taking your dog for a run with you.
So, don't take your dog for a run if it's too hot because prolonged physical activity will dangerously increase your dog's internal temperature. Always keep in mind that your dog does not have the ability to regulate its body temperature by sweating like humans. The risk is then that he is the victim of a potentially fatal heat stroke.
If the weather is hot, prefer to leave it at home, in the cool, rather than taking it with you.