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Dog Friendly National Parks

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dog friendly national parks

Your best friend is all in when it comes to any adventure, so imagine the tail wagging in store if you exchanged your usual jaunts for a journey to one of the United State’s best national parks for dogs.

Pets are allowed in all of the national parks to some degree or another, but there are usually strict regulations on where you can go with your four-legged friend. The rules are intended to ensure the safety of the parks’ wildlife, natural resources, other visitors, park employees, and your pet. These vast parks are home to regional predators, hazardous plant life, and rough, uneven terrain — all of which can prove dangerous to dogs.

There are, however, national parks where you and your dog can savor nature’s grandeur safely and fully. If the thought of hiking with your dog past stunning vistas or through primeval forests captures your imagination, read on to discover the best national parks to visit with your best pal and how to prepare for these walks of a lifetime.

HIKING WITH DOGS: TRAINING & SAFETY

There is no point in heading to one of these breathtaking destinations with an overexcited dog who exhibits minimal self-control. Before you go, be sure to read up on hiking safely with a dog so you and your best pal are prepared for this excursion and you have all the dog safety gear you’ll need before setting off from the trailhead.

The exception to the rules: The access restrictions at the national parks do not apply to service animals. It’s a good idea to let the park’s rangers know you are bringing a service animal in advance, so they can be prepared. There are sometimes particular routes to scenic locations for service animals, such as below the rim of the Grand Canyon where pets are prohibited.

NATIONAL PARK DOG RULES:

  1. The majority of national parks prohibit pets from hiking trails and backcountry.
  2. Most of the parks, however, allow dogs and pets in campgrounds, picnic areas, at paved scenic viewpoints, and on the paved roads that lead to these developed park locations.
  3. In all parks, dogs must wear a collar or harness attached to a leash no more than six feet at all times.
  4. Dogs should wear a personalized collar or identification tags with contact and medical information.
  5. Dogs should never be left unattended.
  6. Dogs should never be left in parked cars.
  7. Owners are expected to maintain strict control of their dogs so they don’t threaten wildlife or other park visitors.
  8. Extensive, ongoing barking is prohibited, as this can threaten wildlife and disrupt the peaceful environment people visit national parks to enjoy.
  9. Pet owners are expected to pick up after their dogs diligently.
  10. Pets are not allowed on ranger-led programs.
  11. Pet and human food should be stored in food lockers to avoid attracting predators.
  12. Pets are not allowed in public buildings.
  13. Pet owners not adhering to regulations may receive a citation.

Fast Fact: In the entire national park system, only Golden Gate National Recreation Area in California allows canines to romp off leash, at the park’s dog friendly beach beneath the Golden Gate Bridge.

Once you understand the unique preparations and considerations involved in taking your dog to a national park, it’s time to choose your destination. Below are the national parks with the most open policies for dog visitors. In the parks on this list, dogs are a common sight and you’ll be at ease knowing you and your best friend are in welcoming territory.

THE MOST DOG-FRIENDLY NATIONAL PARKS:

ACADIA NATIONAL PARK – MAINE

Located in Maine near Bar Harbor, Acadia is one of the most dog-friendly parks in the National Park System. At 49,000 acres, it is one of the smallest national parks. Acadia is treasured for its rugged, rocky coastline skirting the Atlantic Ocean, as well as its rounded mountains, lakes, and valleys sculpted by massive glaciers, some as much as two miles thick, that flowed over the region 20,000 years ago.

  1. Dogs on a leash have full access to 100 miles of hiking trails and 45 miles of carriage roads throughout the park.
  2. Dogs are allowed at the top of Acadia’s Cadillac Mountain, which is the highest point in the park at 1,530 feet and offers gorgeous views of Somes Sound off Bar Harbor.
  3. There are several “ladder” trails that people with dogs cannot access because they require vertical climbs up rungs set in the rock face.
  4. There are also multiple trails that are not recommended for pets by the park service. Though they are not prohibited, they should be tackled only by experienced four-legged hikers and their owners.
  5. Dogs and people are not allowed to swim in the many lakes of Acadia as most of them are public water supplies.
  6. Some, not all, campgrounds are open to pets.
Your best friend is all in when it comes to any adventure, so imagine the tail wagging in store if you exchanged your usual jaunts for a journey to one of the United State’s best national parks for dogs. Click To Tweet

SHENANDOAH NATIONAL PARK – VIRGINIA

Only 75 miles outside of Washington, D.C., Shenandoah is a peaceful oasis that includes 300 square miles of the Blue Ridge Mountains. It is a destination park for avid hikers and offers miles of dog-friendly trails. In Shenandoah, you and your best friend can hike past cascading waterfalls, through quiet woodlands, and along trails that offer gorgeous views of the Appalachians.

  1. Leashed dogs have access to 480 of the 500 miles of hiking trails in the park.
  2. Be prepared for the possibility of an encounter with a bear or a snake.
  3. Pets are allowed in all campgrounds and pet-friendly accommodations are available.

YOSEMITE NATIONAL PARK – CALIFORNIA

The almost 1,200 square miles of this expansive park in the High Sierras include beautiful waterfalls, a deep, mile-wide valley cut by the Merced River, giant sequoias, and the iconic granite monolith El Capitan. While trails are completely off-limits to dogs in Yosemite, pets are allowed in developed areas from which you’ll be able to enjoy the park’s legendary views.

  1. Leashed dogs are allowed on paved roads, sidewalks and most bicycle paths.
  2. They are allowed in campgrounds, except walk-in and group campsites.
  3. Be prepared for the possibility of an encounter with a bear.
  4. Dogs are also allowed in Wawona and Hodgdon Meadow, which are lovely, lesser-known locales in the park.

GRAND CANYON NATIONAL PARK – ARIZONA

The Grand Canyon is an immense geological wonder that draws five million visitors each year. The canyon is one mile deep, 277 miles long as the Colorado River flows, and 18 miles wide at its broadest point.

  1. Leashed dogs are allowed on trails above the South Rim of the park.
  2. Pets are allowed in several of the park’s campgrounds.
  3. Pets are allowed in all developed sections of the park.
  4. Except for service animals, pets are not allowed below the rim of the canyon.
  5. A kennel is available in the park for people with pets who wish to hike the inner canyon.

CUYAHOGA VALLEY NATIONAL PARK – OHIO

Not far from Cleveland, this park was founded in 2000 and includes land that was formerly used as dumping grounds. The park wends along the Cuyahoga River, through dense forest, and over rolling hills and farmland. The Towpath Trail follows the route of the Ohio and Erie Canal. The park also features several historic sites, including the Canal Exploration Center and the Everett Covered Bridge.

  1. Dogs are allowed on 110 miles of the park’s hiking trails.
  2. Dogs are allowed on 20 miles of the historic Towpath Trail.
  3. Pets are allowed in the park’s campground.

ROCKY MOUNTAIN NATIONAL PARK – COLORADO

Alpine lakes shimmer amid the hundred peaks that rise within the boundaries of the park, including Longs Peak, which is 14,259 feet high. Wildlife, such as elk, bighorn sheep, moose, mountain lions, bobcats, and bears roam the region. In the warm months, the park blooms with sub-alpine wildflowers and tundra flowers.

  1. Dogs are allowed on paved roads, in picnic areas, and in developed areas, many of which command breathtaking views.
  2. Dogs are allowed in the park’s campgrounds.

ZION NATIONAL PARK – UTAH

Over millions of years, the Virgin River has cut the deep and narrow canyon at the heart of Zion. The colorful, sculpted cliff walls create a dramatic backdrop for varied plant life. The mesas of the park are home to 68 species of mammals, including foxes, bighorn sheep, rock squirrels, deer, and the kangaroo rat.

  1. Dogs on a leash are allowed on the Pa’rus Trail, which is a lovely 3.5-mile long paved path.
  2. The path is popular with bikers, so be alert if your dog gets overexcited when bicyclists pass by.
  3. Dogs are allowed in all the developed areas of the park.
  4. Zion gets extremely hot; be sure you are prepared to keep your dog hydrated and cool on the trail.

Understanding and respecting the regulations put in place to protect the wildlife and wilderness will help you get the most out of visiting a breathtaking national park with your dog. While you may not be able to enjoy every trail or take in every view, you and your dog are sure to take magnificent walks you’ll remember for a lifetime.

Best Hiking Dogs

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Hiking with a dog can enrich the experience for both of you, and for your hiking colleagues, but is best undertaken with a canine who’s got the moxie. It’s wise to leave puppies and senior dogs with compromised health at home. And before you hit the trail  with any dog, ask yourself:

  1. Can he keep up? Engage in a vigorous outdoor play session to see who tires out first. If he did, he probably doesn’t have the endurance needed for a hike.
  2. Is he obedient? Place him in the company of other dogs —will he still come to you when he is distracted? If not, he’s not ready for the trail, unless you can keep him leashed for the entire hike. Work on obedience with him: a long-distance return and emergency “drop” on command are crucial for backcountry hikes.
  3. Does he have good hiking genes? With the few notable exceptions below, short-legged dogs should be left at home or only taken along on very easy, short trails. And shorter-snouted dogs—Boxers, Pugs, and French or English Bulldogs, for example—are susceptible to respiratory issues that make long-distance hiking difficult or impossible.
  4. Does he have a clean bill of health? Make sure your hiking dog has regular checkups, and keep his vaccinations and flea and tick preventive medications currently.
BEST DOGS FOR HIKING: TOP ADVENTURE DOG BREEDS Click To Tweet

Most healthy, physically fit dogs can handle a hike through flat terrain that lasts no longer than your longest regular walks at home. But if you really want to hit the backcountry with your best friend along, several breeds stand out as the best hiking dogs. Here we discuss a few of our favorites, along with a few honorable mentions.

THE RHODESIAN RIDGEBACK

So-called because of the characteristic “ridge” of hair running the length of his spine against the direction of the rest of his coat, this dog was bred historically as an African lion hunter. With his low-maintenance short hair and efficient stride, the Rhodesian Ridgeback adapts better to heat than most breeds and as such has no problem hiking in it. As much as he is sinewy and strong, the Rhodesian Ridgeback temperament is also fearless and loyal to a fault: if your backcountry hike will take you well off the beaten path, there is no other dog you’d sooner have by your side—he is hands-down the best protector against outdoor threats. And he has earned the moniker “Navy SEAL of dogs” for good reason: his thick pads can handle the roughest of terrain. Rumor has it the Rhodesian Ridgeback can keep pace with a running horse as far as 30 miles. Among the best outdoor dogs, this intelligent, faithful, hardworking breed makes a superlative hiking partner.

THE VIZSLA

A pointer of Hungarian extraction, the Vizsla is an exceptionally trainable dog. She is a natural runner who excels at speed, strength, endurance, navigating obstacles, and jumping—she is even a strong swimmer. And because of her short coat, she adapts well to hikes in warm to temperate climates. She is a good-natured gal who welcomes a hike of any duration and makes an excellent watchdog, an admirable trait for camping.

THE BERNESE MOUNTAIN DOG

Hardy, affectionate, intelligent, a gentle giant: these are all attributes of the Bernese Mountain dog, an animal who possesses a natural love of the outdoors and who craves an active lifestyle. A working farm dog from the Swiss Alps, he was made for drafting and droving (moving livestock); his German name, Berner Sennenhund, in fact, means “alpine pasture dog.” He can pull ten times his body weight, and because of this mighty work ethic has no difficulty at all packing in supplies for your backcountry adventure.

The Bernese Mountain Dog loves a large “playground” and thus takes a shine to hike. Easily trained and naturally obedient, he’ll stay by your side unleashed. His agility allows him to navigate rocky terrain effortlessly, and his heavy coat makes him an excellent cold-weather hiker.

 

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THE LABRADOR RETRIEVER

We can’t say enough good things about America’s most popular dog, your favorite, and ours. The family choice for thousands and for good reason, the Labrador Retriever loves running and playing and being outdoors in general. She has been described as weatherproof, waterproof, and tenacious—excellent qualities all. The consummate athlete, she is also friendly to a fault and loves to explore. This makes her a delightful hiking partner for you to be sure, but also for others you encounter since they’ll recognize her as a non-threatening, tail-wagging presence on the trail.

BEST DOGS FOR HIKING: TOP ADVENTURE DOG BREEDS Click To Tweet

Smart, trainable, strong, and hardworking, the Lab will agreeably pack in seven to ten pounds of gear in most climates, but does not like extremes. Bring a good stick or a Frisbee to satisfy her voracious appetite for play, and by all means keep her moving—Labs love to eat (she’s not picky, keep an eye on her) and are prone to obesity; give her loads of exercise to help maintain her girlish figure. She also loves to swim and enjoys hikes that extend her this opportunity. You really can’t go wrong hiking with a Lab.

THE PORTUGUESE WATER DOG

This cheerful fellow is a champ: he was made for hard work, herding fish, retrieving lost tackle or broken nets, swimming as a courier between ships or from ship to shore, and in general, shines in the surf—there is not much he hasn’t done. But in spite of his love for the water, he’s at home on terra firma, too. So if your hiking adventures will take you to the beach or the lake, he’s the top dog. Above all, be prepared for an active lifestyle: the Portuguese Water Dog is adventurous and thrives on daily mental stimulation and physical exercise. Like the Lab, he possesses a friendly demeanor which makes other hikers comfortable around him. But he also loves being within sight of you; this makes him an excellent companion on the trail, ill-suited to leave alone for long periods.

THE SIBERIAN HUSKY & THE ALASKAN MALAMUTE

They are distinct breeds to be sure but share some attributes, notably their propensities as cold-weather traction dogs. The Malamute is the bigger and stronger of the two (weighing between 75 and 85 pounds), comfortable over harsh terrain in cold climates: she can endure temperatures to an impressive 70° below zero. Her massive feet perform like snowshoes, her sharp claws grip the ice. Be advised she rarely barks and thus makes a poor watchdog; she may also exhibit a strong prey drive and a willingness to go after small animals.

Coming from the same genetic stock, the smaller Siberian Husky should not be overlooked as an excellent hiking partner. At 35 to 60 pounds she’s more compact than her Malamute cousin, but as happy in the snow and extreme cold. The Husky is sometimes seen as more social than the Malamute and generally makes a good family pet. She needs loads of exercise and is happy to cover long distances with you on the trail, especially in the cold. She has also earned a reputation as an escape artist with a strong prey drive. And like the Malamute, the Husky makes a poor watchdog: she may howl to identify with her “pack,” but is less willing to alert you to an intruder with her barking.

HONORABLE MENTIONS

  1. The Australian Shepherd is a plucky, hike-worthy canine. Nicknamed the “ghost-eye dog” because of his distinctive, otherworldly eyes, the Aussie is a herding dog known for his excellent work ethic, impeccable social skills, and protective nature. He’s ideal for an active family and makes a good companion for anybody who enjoys exploring different types of terrain. Steep inclines and long excursions are child’s play for him, and his agility and obedience are unmatched; avoid temperature extremes with this otherwise hardy dog.
  2. A German Shorthaired Pointer is an affectionate fellow with above-average intelligence. He’s a bit like our beloved Lab, marginally more difficult to train. And like the Lab, he started purely as a hunting dog and evolved into a worthy family pet owing to his winsome personality. He has a strong prey drive and will possibly bolt at the sight of a small animal, but makes a good guard dog, helpful in the wilderness; you will tire on the trail well before he does.
  3. The Jack Russell Terrier possesses an audacious spirit in a compact package. The Jack Russell has boundless energy and does not tire easily; she’ll stick by your side on the trail and makes an excellent watchdog at your campsite, alerting you to potential intruders.
  4. The Rat Terrier possesses many of Jack Russell’s admirable qualities, but barks less and is arguably more trainable; do not be surprised if she gifts you with a chipmunk or mouse, as she was made for pest control. If you love hiking but your lifestyle otherwise rules out a larger dog breed, the Jack Russell and the Rat Terrier each make a surprisingly praiseworthy companion animal for outdoor adventuring.
  5. And don’t forget the mutt! There are plenty of adoptable mixed breed dogs who make excellent hiking buddies. Just make sure your beloved mutt meets the benchmarks above.

Hike well, hike safely, and hike often, and by all means hike with your dog: including him in your backcountry adventures will make both of you experts, sweetening the experience and galvanizing the already-tight bond between you.

How to Hike with Your Dog

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Any seasoned hiker who routinely hits the trail with a canine companion knows having their beloved dog along for the adventure elevates the experience. Enjoying the reward of stunning vistas during a long hike takes on an added measure of joy with your tail-wagging friend by your side. However, backcountry treks with your dog require an added measure of preparation and awareness. Read on for tips to follow before you hit the trailhead and during your hike so you and your furry best pal can make the most of your outing.

HOW TO PREPARE FOR A HIKE WITH YOUR DOG

There are several steps to take well before you lace up your hiking boots and attach your dog’s leash. If possible, take a canine first-aid class. It’s unlikely you’ll need to utilize these skills, but you’ll be really glad to have them in an emergency. Also, make sure your dog’s vaccinations are current and he is treated routinely with heartworm and flea/tick preventive before you expose him to the great outdoors.

Other important precautions and preparations:

  • Make sure your dog has identification, preferably multiple sources. A properly fitted personalized collar, identification and rabies hang tags, and a microchip (a small electronic I.D. chip your vet injects subcutaneously) together improve the chances of his safe return if you lose him on the hike.
  • If your dog will wear a pack, practice at home first.
  • Familiarize yourself with the regulations on the trail you’ll be hiking. Most U.S. National Parks have tight restrictions on where dogs can hike, but some parks are pet-friendly. Most National Forests allow dogs on the trails.
  • Investigate how rough the trail is, and opt for a shaded trail that’s easy on the paws. Avoid sharp rocks, off-trail routes with steep drops, and hot floor surfaces. Avoid trails with heavy horse or mountain bike traffic. Avoid trails with ladders; never attempt to climb or descend one while carrying your dog.
  • Make sure there is a safe water source where you’re going, but also be prepared to treat your dog’s water as well as your own: dogs are as susceptible to Giardiasis and other water-borne diseases as humans.

WHAT TO PACK FOR YOUR HIKE

You’ll need to fine-tune what you pack depending on the length of your hike and whether you’re camping, but the following packing list is a good starting point for a day hike with your best pal:

  • A short-to-moderate heeling leash, preferably six feet in length, not to exceed ten feet. Some trails have regulations; check before you go. Avoid retractable leads. Thread your belt through the leash handle for hands-free hiking.
  • Consider a harness for a dog who will remain leashed for the entire hike.
  • Food, water, and treats. Consider adding Pedialyte to his water to combat dehydration; consult your vet. Give him treats formulated only for dogs.

How much food and water? Pack at least 50% more food than what your dog normally eats, and up to double his normal rations for a strenuous hike. Pack a quart of water for every three miles you plan to hike.

  • Dog first-aid kit with accompanying guide. Include a muzzle—an injured dog can become aggressive.
  • Dog booties. Sensitive paws may need help navigating a rough trail; booties will also protect your dog’s pads from salted, slippery, or very cold terrain. Be advised that dogs sweat through their feet and can overheat if booties are left on too long.
  • Poop bags and a trowel. If you are not burying your dog’s waste according to LNT (Leave No Trace) principles, you’ll need to double-bag it and pack it out with you. Before you go, find out the specific LNT requirements on the trail you plan to hike.

Leave No Trace Rules: Poop happens; you’ll need to deal with it—canine or otherwise—using the proper LNT practices for the trail you’re on. If you’re not packing it out, dig a hole in an inconspicuous space at least 200 feet (70 paces) from water sources, trails, and your campsite. The hole should be 6 to 8 inches deep (4 to 6 inches in a desert environment) and 4 to 6 inches in diameter. After burying the waste, refill the hole with the original dirt and cover it and disguise it with natural materials.

  • A dog brush and/or comb, and a tick key. It’s easier to deal with entangled seeds and other plant materials along the way and to discover ticks before they embed. A tick must attach for 24 to 48 hours to transmit Lyme disease.
  • A dog coat or vest for a short-haired indoor breed if you’ll be outside in cold, wet conditions; choose one with belly coverage for hikes in the snow.
  • A dog-specific personal flotation device (PFD) if you will be on a lake or river or plan to canoe.
  • Insect repellent with DEET. Test with a small dab at home first and look for adverse reactions—drowsiness, lethargy, or nausea. Apply to areas your dog can’t groom off: shoulders, neck, and around the ears, taking care to avoid the ears themselves and the inner ears specifically.
  • Bear bells; attach one to his collar and one to your belt or shoes to reduce the chance of a bear encounter.

Hiking with your Dog: Trail Safety and Etiquette

Without rules, anarchy reigns. It takes only a couple of dog-related incidents or expensive rescues to invite more dog restrictions on the trail. Observe a little wisdom and common sense to optimize your outing and keep everybody safe:

  • Give your dog an opportunity for water whenever you take a drink, every fifteen minutes to a half-hour, depending on the difficulty of the hike and the temperature. Discourage your dog from drinking stagnant water on the trail and look instead for clear, running water. If your dog drinks saltwater, encourage her to drink plenty of fresh water afterward. Sanitize any water you get along the way with tablets or a portable water treatment system.
  • Stay on the trail. Keep your dog on a leash that is ten feet in length or shorter.

1:1 is the best dog-to-human ratio for a hike.
2 is the maximum number of dogs to take on the trail with your group.
3 dogs make a pack and can intimidate other hikers.

  • Hikers without dogs have the right-of-way, always. Restrain your dog, step aside, and allow them to pass.
  • If your dog is off-leash and another dog is coming, leash your dog. Allow them to sniff briefly and then be on your way.
  • If your floppy-eared dog goes for a watery romp or swim, rinse out her ears afterward.

When the adventure ends, give your pooch a final bumper-to-bumper exam and remove any unsavory stowaways on her. Once home, follow up with a thorough shampoo to rid her coat of oils from poisonous plants she may have picked up on the hike.

Then start planning your next big adventure. There is infinite fun to be had on the trail; the more often you take your beloved companion hiking and backpacking with you, the more seasoned and acclimated she’ll become to outdoor adventure. Hike safely with your dog: you’ll rock her world.

NEW BADGE ALERT: Northern Lights Badge

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Adventure Dog Club Badge: Northern Lights Click To Tweet

As we get started in the New Year we are excited to announce our first Adventure Dog Club Badge! This badge is one of our special edition patches and will be tough to get but it is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for many. It is our northern lights badge.

Northern Lights Badge

To register for this badge please click here and indicate that you are interested in the Northern Lights badge. Once we get your registered and in our database we will send you a link to log in and get started!

The Northen Lights Badge offered by the Adventure Dog Club is one of our special editions. The purpose of this badge is to help the handler understand how to take better photos of the elusive Northern Lights and of his/her dog and help the dog to become easier subjects for photos. The badge requires the handler to gain a solid understanding of his/her camera and how to use it to get great photos. It also requires the dog to demonstrate skills that help him to be a better subject. The dog needs to have solid impulse control prior to training the required skills.

If you have further questions about the Adventure Dog Club please contact us.

Can I Run with My Dog?

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If you routinely run with a dog, you already know it can be the best part of your day: running gets both of you outdoors, infusing you with euphoria-making natural endorphins and bolstering the already tight bond that exists between you. Exercising with your dog does not require a gym membership, nor special equipment. It does demand an able mind and body and a willingness to do it. Your dog may be the best personal trainer you’ve had or are likely to have. He never complains about the weather, gently reminding you it’s time to run on the days you don’t want to go; he might even bring you his leash.

Prefer to listen? Check out the Dog Works Radio podcast below and subscribe for free on Apple Podcasts 

But should you run with your dog? Is he up for the challenge of exercise? Always eager to please and unrelentingly enthusiastic about going outside in general, he’s not likely to let on if he shouldn’t run—he may not even know it himself. Whether you and he are already seasoned runners or you’re considering fostering this special workout partnership, be advised: some dogs make better runners than others, and some really should not run at all. Know before you go: run safely with your road-worthy dog to reap all the benefits of this wonderful outdoor activity.

WAIT, HE’S A DOG—ALL DOGS WERE MADE TO RUN, RIGHT?

When we’re speaking of his ancestor, the wolf, the answer is yes. Ancient wolves could run as far as 60 miles (100 kilometers) a day in pursuit of food—they were built for it and accustomed to it; the modern wolf only covers about half that distance in a day. But the domestic dog has been fed from a bowl for hundreds of years—those roaming instincts were long ago pruned away.

Even an average runner is asking a modern dog to do something unusual: he is made to sprint, not to cover long distances. Running can strain his tendons and joints, especially if he is still young: a developing skeleton is at risk of permanent damage when it is pushed beyond capacity. The damage occurs when an immature dog’s muscles tire and can no longer support the frame; this results in bones abrading bones. Most vets recommend waiting until a dog is a year old before training him to run with you, and longer for large breeds.

Age notwithstanding, some dog breeds do seem more adaptable to long distance running with proper training and conditioning. The best running dogs tend to be young, short-haired, large-breed dogs with long noses. Other dogs are content with a brisk walk around the block; examples are short-legged dogs and toy breeds, dogs with short faces, and giant breeds. Resist asking your dog to go for a vigorous run if nature did not intend it.

PERFORMANCE DOG NUTRITION

Your dog became an athlete when you pressed him into service as your personal trainer. He’s more than willing to do it, but you owe him the best nutrition to meet the rigors of running: calories and nutrients are important to any runner’s diet—human or otherwise. Feed your running dog:

  1. A meat-rich diet
  2. A protein-rich diet
  3. A digestible calcium-rich diet
  4. Food with lots of micronutrients
  5. Food that contains “good” bacteria and enzymes

Watch for weight gain in a dog who is fed a high-energy diet but does not get enough exercise to compensate for it. And consider adding glucosamine and chondroitin to your senior canine’s diet for his joint health.

Remember: avoid feeding a dog an hour before or after a run to reduce the risk of gastric torsion, or bloat.

RUNNING REQUISITE: TAKE YOUR DOG TO THE VET

Dogs don’t complain: he may have a nagging health issue he can’t tell you about. Ask your veterinarian to give your companion animal a thorough bumper-to-bumper evaluation before beginning a workout regimen, and by all means make sure he is current on his vaccinations.

When you mention running, your vet will pay particular attention to your dog’s heart, lungs, and joint health. There are several potential health issues that may influence your running plans; better to be safe than sorry.

Your vet can also advise you about your dog’s predisposition to hip or elbow dysplasia and a set you on a course of treatment if necessary. And a senior dog may not be road-worthy: your vet will weigh in.

A preexisting condition in your dog does not mean you absolutely can’t run with him, but it certainly can and should shape your running habits. For starters, learn your dog’s normal gait and resting heart and respiratory rates as a baseline against which to measure the same during long-distance runs. And ask your vet to show you how to recognize a medical issue if it occurs during a run. Then hit the road: there is nothing like running with your dog to galvanize your already-tight bond with him.

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