Dog running South Boulder, Colorado. There are many important keys to keeping your dog at its healthiest, one major factor in your dog’s health is the amount of exercise they get. If you have the time and inclination to go on long walks or take your dog running, it can be a great adventure for both you and your pooch. There are some basic safety precautions you should take, and dangers to keep an eye out for, both on and off the trail.
Before you take your dog on any long walks, and especially before taking your dog running, you should have them checked out by their veterinarian to make sure they are in good enough shape for the amount of exercise you plan to do. Not all dogs are suited to running. Dogs with short snouts, such as pugs or bulldogs, are prone to breathing issues when they run. A nice long walk would better suit those dogs, which can still mean a lovely time outdoors.
It can be a beautiful experience taking your dog running on the trails of Colorado, but you should know the risks involved before you set off with your pooch. With a little bit of proper preparation, you and your dog can enjoy the great outdoors to the fullest!
Know Before You Go
Before bringing your dog on the trails with you, make sure that dogs are allowed on the trail you have chosen. Some trails may have rules about dogs on and off leashes, so check with the park, or your county website, to see if the trail you want to use allows dogs. You should also check to see if unleashed dogs are allowed on the trails. When in doubt, leave your dog’s leash on for their safety, and for the animals along the trail, too.
Be aware of the area where you are going to be walking or running. How far is the trail, or how far do you plan to go on the trail? If you’re just starting out running with your dog, they may need to build up their stamina first. The best way to do this is to start with shorter walks first, to acclimate to the trail. As your dog gets used to the environment, and the activity level, you can increase the distances you walk. You can start running the trail once you know your dog’s stamina level, and how they act in the trail environment.
Watch Trail Surfaces and Surroundings
Running on a dirt or grass trail is easier on your dog’s joints and paws than running on pavement or gravel. You have shoes to cushion your feet- your dog is running barefoot! Those pads may be pretty tough, but they’re still not as tough as your rubber soles. Keep an eye out for rocky or sharp surfaces which could cut or puncture your dog’s pads, and also potholes, which can cause sprains or breaks if taken at running speed.
You will want to beware of plants on the side of the trail, such as foxtail grass, which can be very unpleasant if your dog gets into them. There are cacti and other toxic plants that you will want to learn the looks of, so you can avoid them. Here are just a few of the plants to be wary of:
- Poison Ivy, Poison Oak, and Sumac can all cause rashes and itching, as well as gastric issues if ingested.
- Cacti have sharp points that can be irritating to the skin, cause infections if they puncture the skin, or digestive issues if ingested.
- Foxtail grasses release seeds that will burrow endlessly unless they’re taken care of immediately. If you suspect your dog has a foxtail, go to your vet to have it treated.
- Certain flowers such as Lupines have toxic seeds that can sometimes be ingested by your dog. It is best not to let your dog run through these flowers.
It’s also important to keep an eye out for other animals, both on and off the trail. If it’s a popular dog trail, you may meet many other dogs along the way. If it’s a lesser traveled trail, you may encounter other wildlife which may spook your dog, or cause them to try to chase after the animal. Of course, if you know that Fido really likes to chase squirrels, then keeping him leashed while on a forest trail makes the most sense.
Warm Weather Tips
It is especially important in the late spring and summer to watch out for the signs of heatstroke in your dog when exercising outdoors. Dogs don’t sweat like humans do to relieve the heat. They pant, but they don’t have the same cooling mechanisms we do. In order to keep your dog safe in the heat, make sure to keep the pace slower, stop occasionally to rest and breathe, and offer plenty of water to keep your dog properly hydrated in the heat.
Mind Your Trail Manners
Trail running has an etiquette to it, just as with any social activity. Always clean up after your dog! You should always carry out any baggies of poop that you pick up after your pup. As well, if it’s a well-traveled dog trail, you may encounter baggies left behind on the sides of the trail.
If your dog poops on the way into the trail, then coming back for it on the way back is fine. If you know you won’t be passing that way again, take your baggies with you. Some trails even have bins at the trailheads for dog waste, so you don’t have to take it all the way home.
Keep Your Dog’s Wellness In Mind
Your dog should be able to drink water at any point along the trail, just like you! Bring an extra water bottle and a travel bowl, if you can. There are a lot of portable options which can make taking these items along a little easier. Be aware that drinking too much water can cause bloat in some dogs, so consult with your vet about what the right amount of water to give while exercising is.
Just like a human, it’s best not to take your dog running or walking just before or just after feeding them. Waiting an hour after feeding before you go on a walk gives time for your dog to digest properly. Waiting for an hour to feed your dog after any exercise means that they can calm down to a more sedate state before eating.
Dog Running South Boulder – Don’t Forget to Have Fun!
The most important factor of being on the trails with your dog is to enjoy it! Most dogs love to run around outside when they can, so you may want to try taking your dog out on a trail today!
Get Your Dog Running Today!
Off Road Paws has a dog running service that will take your dog out on the trails for you! We know which trails are best suited to dogs in the Louisville, Lafayette, Erie, Broomfield, and Boulder, Colorado areas. We also know how to care for your dog before, during, and after their time on the trail. So even if you don’t have the time or physical stamina, you can still give your dog the gift of a trail run!
Off Road Paws is veterinarian owned, and each member of the staff is well trained in dog safety. Our staff will give your dog the exercise they need with the one-on-one attention they’ll love. Contact Off Road Paws now to book your dog’s next outing.