How to Train Your Pup for the Iron Doggy

It’s a new year and you’re tired of making excuses. You’ve decided that this is the year you’re going to do it: compete in a marathon. You’ve been busy researching marathons online that are held across the country, the groups they’re “run” by (get it?!) and what it would cost to compete. Then one day you come across the Iron Doggy . Iron Doggy events are for runners and their dogs! How cool is that—you and your pupper can train together and race together; it’ll make for a whole new bonding experience!

Though your dog might love to run around you in circles at the dog park, that doesn’t mean he can or wants to go on endurance training runs. Before you lace up your Nikes and pull that martingale dog collar over your dog’s head, here are some things to think about.

Getting a Check Up

If you’ve ever tried to start an exercise regimen with a friend, then you already understand the struggle of trying to keep motivated when they call to cancel gym plans but suggest going out for drinks instead. This isn’t something you have to worry about coming from your four-legged jogging “pawtner.” Your dog will be more than ready to head out on leash for a good long walk. However, as much as your pup enjoys his walks, running long distance might present a problem, especially if he’s too young, too old or just plain out of shape.

In an interview with Vet Street, long-distance runner and dog trainer Bob Halpenny stresses that you can’t start distance training with your pup until they have reached at least 18 months of age. Your young pup’s bones are still forming, and if they should land on their paw wrong and tweak their leg, they could sustain a lifelong injury. Older dogs suffering from arthritis or pulmonary diseases will not be able to withstand the pressure of the training either. If you want to start a training program with your dog, veterinarian Marty Becker suggests taking your pup to the vet for a physical to make sure he can withstand the training.

Don’t Push, Support.

Once your pup’s vet (and your doctor) gives you the OK to begin this new exercise regimen, start the routine with a 10-minute run . You and your hairy running partner will need to build up your endurance. Starting out your training aiming for a five-mile run will only cause physical and emotional stress to you and your dog. Remember, the Iron Doggy is about getting out, getting healthy and having an adventure shared by you and your canine companion.

As you and your pup become used to the 10-minute jog, increase your time. The running blog Active tells us that the “gradual build up [as result of the training] allows the muscles and connective tissue to adapt and grow to the activity without injury.” Take care of yourself and your pooch, don’t overdo it.

Running on Leash

You and your running mate will be connected through a leash, forcing the two of you to run in sync with each other. Long leashes such as those that extend to six feet will not be of much use in the race as it will let your pup pull and run ahead of you, causing possible injury. You and your running mate will need to run in time with each other to be successful. Adorn your dog with a martingale collar and connect him to you using a hands-free dog leash or a handheld leash measuring at most two feet. By keeping in unison with each other you will stay in rhythm and keep from exerting too much energy early on in the race.

Are you ready to set a new goal for yourself this year? Are you ready to spend as much time with your dog as you possibly can? Register for the Iron Doggy. And for all your canine friend’s running apparel, visit Hot Dog Collars.