Biking with your dog Bicycling with your dog Bikepacking with your dog How to teach your dog to bike Train your dog for biking Dog Biking & Bicycling Gear Is it okay to bike with your dog? Dog Bike Leash & Harness Biking with dog in backpack Dog Bike Baskets What is dog cycling? Is bikejoring safe for dogs? What is the best dog for bikers? Dog Biking Equipment Dogpacking
Every dog is different and training is going to look a little different for each dog. The most important thing is to make sure you do it at a gradual, slow pace. First of all, you should start with some basic obedience training, such as walking on a leash without pulling and moving to walking off leash as well as a basic recall. To become a good cycling companion, a dog needs to go through a learning curve similar to the one you experienced as a child learning to ride your bike.
Your dog should be comfortable around your bike, when you are both stationary and moving. He needs to be familiar with any equipment you use, and learn how to slow down, turn, and stop. And just as you started slowly on your first bike, the time and distance your dog accompanies you on bike rides should increase gradually. Some dogs are fearful of moving bicycles, so you may need to help your dog become comfortable around your bike.
First - Determine if you
have got a runner
or a passenger?
Before you get your heart set on having your pup run alongside you as you pedal, you must confirm they are up to the task. Be mindful of the fact that some dogs, including short-nosed breeds, dogs who are overweight or those who have health issues, are not built for runs. Not all breeds are meant for biking! Dogs that are brachycephalic (like bulldogs) have a hard time breathing normally, so rigorous exercise like biking is not a good idea. Large, heavy dogs and older dogs will not enjoy biking as it is too rough on their joints. Dogs with thick, heavy coats may also find it too uncomfortable. Of course, some dogs do love going on longer runs. To stay on the safe side, though, it is best to check with your vet before starting your pooch on any kind of new exercise regimen.
In your house or garage, start by holding your bike, calling your dog to you, and allowing him to sniff it. Praise him, pet him, and give him a yummy treat to reward his bravery. Lay your bike down, sit on the floor next to your bike, and repeat the exercise. You can even place treats on the tires, the frame, and the pedals, playing a game with your dog while he begins to associate this strange machine with having fun. Next, walk a few steps with your bike and encourage your dog to follow, using praise and treats. Continue to practice indoors, eventually adding your dog's harness and leash, and moving outdoors only when your dog is comfortable walking alongside you and your bike.
Outdoors, repeat the same walking exercise on leash. Move the bike so it wobbles, make some turns, walk faster then slower, even jog a little. If your dog shows any signs of apprehension, you have progressed too quickly. You may need to practice over several days before your dog will happily walk alongside you and your bike with distractions. When your dog handles these challenges with ease, teach him some cues for behaviors that you will use to guide him when you ride, such as "Slow," "Stop," "Easy," "Turn," and "Leave It."
While riding a bike requires less coordination between you and your pup, they will still need proper training to ease them into a passenger mindset. First, you need to train them to sit in the basket when it is off the bike. Make sure your dog can stay seated as you carry the basket around. If you have a trailer or wagon, practice rolling it around as you go on walks. Then, increase the stimulation. For example, carry the basket by the street you plan to bike on or play music while you circle the driveway. These activities get your dog used to distractions and decrease their anxiety. Next, you can slowly attach the basket or trailer to the bike. Consider walking the bike around a bit before getting on and riding. Make sure to practice this all in an environment with very few cars, people, or animals around, such as an empty parking lot, to build you and your dog's confidence.
If you and your dog are just beginning to exercise regularly or more strenuously, physical exams by your respective doctors are advisable. Your veterinarian can offer safety precautions regarding age, breed, weight, and thickness of coat.
Starting to ride Now that your dog walks happily next to you and your bike on-leash, it should be no problem to switch to the cord or leash of a bike attachment. Continue to practice walking with your dog attached to your bike, and if he shows no signs of uneasiness, get on your bike and pedal slowly. If you have gradually accustomed your dog to moving with your bike, he will likely be happy to trot alongside you. Take him for a slow, short excursion, using lots of encouragement, praise, and treats.
Future rides should increase slowly in time and distance, working up to a steady trot. After several rides together, you will begin to develop a feeling for your dog's natural pace. Your dog may try to keep up until he drops, never showing signs of discomfort, no matter what speed you ride. It is important for you to let him set the pace. Use a comfortable trotting pace for the bulk of your rides.
The frequency, distance, and duration of your rides with your dog depend on many factors. Age, breed, size, fitness level, coat, running surface, and weather should be considered. Keep your dog well-hydrated, familiarize yourself with the symptoms of heatstroke (see “Heat Stroke in Dogs”), inspect his paw pads often, check for harness chafing, and watch for signs of lameness or waning enthusiasm. Increasing distance and duration slowly will help prevent soreness and injury, allowing your dog's respiratory and musculoskeletal systems to adapt to increasing workloads.
Training your dog
to run alongside
your bike
If you have decided that your dog is the right body type and at the right fitness level to benefit from running with you while you bike, the most important next step is training. Your dog will need to learn to be comfortable with a moving bike, to stick with you despite distractions, and most important, to build up the strength and fitness for longer runs.
If your dog has not been around a moving bike before, start out by walking your dog next to the bike, with you on one side of the bike and the dog on the other. Reward your dog with praise and treats as you go, giving him a positive association with being next to the bike. As you move, work in specific commands you’ll need during your rides, such as slowing down, turning, stopping, or refocusing on you. For instance, as you walk your dog next to the bike, speed up and then slow down while giving a command like, "slooooow." As your dog slows to match the new pace, give praise.
Next up, leash your dog to whatever equipment you have connected to your bike for safe riding and walk your bike again with your dog attached, going through the same motions and allowing your dog to get used to being attached to the gear. Finally, it is time to hop on the bike. Start out very slowly, letting your dog simply walk or slowly trot alongside you. Go a short distance on a wide trail or path that gives you plenty of room with few distractions. You want to set up your dog for successful rides without scares or accidents, so that you create a strong foundation of enjoying these bike rides rather than being anxious about them.
Rules for the road Select a safe and comfortable place to ride. This is an important part of making bike rides beneficial rather than dangerous. Choose a place with soft ground if possible, such as park paths where your dog can be on dirt or grass. Avoid streets with traffic, even if there are bike lanes. Riding in the street with your dog in traffic is dangerous for many reasons, the most obvious of which is you run a greater risk of being hit by a car since the two of you as a unit become a much wider target in the road. If you have no choice but to ride in an urban or suburban setting, select a quiet neighborhood with little traffic and again, take it slow and be exceedingly careful.
Take the time to warm up. Spend 10-15 minutes at a walk or a very slow jog to allow your dogs muscles to warm up, even if your dog is athletic and fit. Just as with humans, hopping up off the couch and breaking into a run without warming up increases a dog's risk of a muscle tear or joint injury. Check often to see how your dog’s energy level and breathing are doing. Many dogs have a tendency to push themselves to the point of collapse, so be your dog's coach and make sure she does not overdo it. Allow time for the dog to have water, cool down, and catch her breath. This is especially important on warm days.
Keep the pace at a steady trot. As is true with most four-legged animals, this is the all-day pace that efficiently gets them from one place to another. It is the perfect pace for burning off energy without overdoing it. Never leave your dog unattended while tied to the bike. If the bike falls on your dog, it could not only hurt the animal, but possibly make him afraid of the bike. You will have to spend a long time training your dog to overcome that new fear.
Give lots of praise to your bike-ride buddy! Let your dog know he's doing a great job when he is sticking with you and avoiding distraction. Getting to run around while receiving plenty of encouragement will make your dog adore this fun form of exercise.
Embarking on a bike journey with your furry friend by your side isn't just a way to enjoy the great outdoors; it's a bonding experience that benefits both your health and that of your canine companion. Biking with dogs has become a popular form of exercise that combines the thrill of exploring dirt trails and the joy of spending quality time with your dog.
What Equipment
Do You Need
to Bike With Your Dog?
Water bottles - Several water bottles should be taken for both you and your dog.
Tire repair kit - Be prepared for repairs, and also carry a spare tire.
Cell phone - for emergencies
Money - for food or emergencies
Reflective equipment - A reflective harness or collar for your dog and reflective clothing for you
Equipment - Appropriate harness and leash for your dog to attach to the seat post. Hands-free dog leashes are perfect for both biking and scootering with your dog.
Snacks - Healthy treats and dog food keep you and your dog's energy up.
Dog bike trailer - To give your dog's health a rest!
Leashes There are many bike leashes on the market and some are safer and more durable than others. It took me some trial and error to find the right one. In my experience, bike leashes that attach to your seat give too much control to your dog and move the seat in unintended ways. I also dislike rotating bike leashes that allow your dog to run behind the back wheel and switch sides. With those leashes, there is a risk that the rear tire entangles the leash. It is much safer to keep your dog on one side, preferably the left, since that is where most dogs are trained to heel. Lastly, I am wary of bike leashes with "quick releases" that let you easily connect and disconnect metal parts. These seem convenient, but I had one break on me after a few uses.
Today, I use the "bike tow leash." It is a bit pricey, but it is the best leash I have tried. It keeps my dog a safe distance from the bike and on the left side. This stiff, yet flexible, leash allows the dog to take cues from the bike, while the low mounting point prevents the dog from controlling or tipping it. Moose, who's reasonably trained but not perfect, cannot destabilize the bike even if he tries to lunge sideways. By design, the leash does let him propel the bike forward, which has been a lifesaver for my tired legs on uphill rides. I joke that it is my budget-friendly electric bike. Whatever you do, do not hold or wrap a regular leash around your bike handlebars. If your dog decides to pull, you will lose all control of steering and may tip over. It is dangerous for both you and your pup.
Harness Along with a bike leash, your dog needs a well-fitted harness. Avoid attaching your dog to a bike by the collar. This can cause a lot of strain on the dog’s neck. A harness should fit snugly without restricting movement. I use Ruffwear's front range harness and connect my dog to the back clip. Once properly fitted and adjusted, it works wonders. It is also easy to put on and take off, it is excellent for walking with, and not too bulky. Do not forget to regularly inspect your dog's leash and harness to make sure they are in good working condition.
Gear for Running If you want your dog to run alongside your bike, get them a hands-free leash that attaches directly to the bike. Tow leashes are designed to absorb the motion of your dog's movement so it does not upset your bike's balance. That way, if your dog swerves or jumps, you are less likely to tip over, and you can keep your hands on the handlebar. These leashes for smaller dogs often attach to the wheel, while the ones for larger dogs may attach to the frame. If you are confident enough to ride one-handed, you could also hold a regular leash. Just make sure the leash is long enough to give your dog space. Ideally about an arm's length away or a couple of feet so that they are not on top of you. This distance prevents you from accidentally running over your dog's paw or kicking them with your pedal. It also gives your dog an extra second to react when you stop or turn.
Gear for Riding If you want your dog to be a bike passenger, they will need somewhere comfy to sit. Since your lap is not an option, you will need to get creative. For tiny dogs, they can relax in a dog backpack. These often have breathable mesh and peepholes for your dogs to look out of. Meanwhile, medium-sized dogs can sit in an open-air basket you attach to the bike. However, if you get a basket, you need to strap your dog in. He recommends a sturdy harness attachment to prevent your dog from leaping out. If you want a sturdier option, almost any dog can ride in a trailer or wagon behind your bike. This method is often the safest because it is lowest to the ground. Lastly, while some stores do sell dog helmets, they are not standard bike safety gear the way ours are.
The front basket Best for getting out the door quickly. One of the easiest ways to bring your buddy with you on your adventures is to pop them into your front basket... that is it! Simple, right? If you have already got a front basket fitted to your bike, there is not anything else you need in order to prepare ahead of time; so this is a great option for a short, spontaneous journey. If you are looking to get a dog basket for your bike, bear in mind that this is only suitable for certain bike designs. If you are an anxious pet parent, having your dog upfront also means your dog will be in view for the entire journey – just try not to get distracted by their cuteness!
Of course, this option won't exactly do the trick if you are the proud parent of, say, a labradoodle – but it could be perfect if you have a small breed. Nonetheless, even if you are dealing with a tiny teacup breed, do make sure your front basket is strong, stable and sturdy. It is worth keeping in mind the obedience levels of your dog, too – is he or she easily distracted, fidgety or easily scared? If so, this might not be the safest option for either of you.
The rear basket Best for longer journeys! Somewhat of a compromise between the front basket and the trailer, this rear basket gives you the best of both worlds: convenience and quick loading, combined with safety and comfort for your pooch for potentially longer rides. Cargo bikes with longer tails are perfect to fix large rear baskets onto, and are slick enough that you can leave it attached even for those journeys where your dog won't be along for the ride. They are a godsend for bigger grocery shopping trips or commutes to work, too! These rear basket designs are also a lot more spacious than front baskets (but less cumbersome than trailers, so have the potential to cater for medium-size dogs, too.
As with the trailer, with your pooch being behind you and out of sight, it is important to make sure they are secured in place. You’ll also need to take extra care to ensure hazards like long leads (which could get caught in the wheels or pedals) are removed, since your rear basket will not be enclosed the way many trailers are. Once these are taken care firmly of you can ride safe in the knowledge that your pooch is enjoying the wind in their hair!
The bike cargo trailer Best for bigger breeds or multiple dogs! A trailer bike attachment is a very safe and comfortable way to take your dog on your bike with you; so for longer journeys we would suggest this is the leader of the pack when it comes to options! While a trailer is not exactly the quickest or slickest option out there, it is nothing a little advance planning to set up won't fix. It's up to you how you spruce up your "woof-wagon" to make it a safe haven for your dog, but finding a way to secure them into the trailer is a must since they will be out of sight for the majority of your ride. Try a bungee cord or short leash to keep them in place. A massive pro when opting for the bike trailer is that it can carry larger dogs, since many bike trailers are designed to cater for kids. For this reason, many of them can also transport more than one dog – depending on the size of them, obviously – making it perfect for those with dog "families"!
The backpack This grab-and-go option just melts our hearts and is guaranteed to get some passers-by gushing. Smaller, lighter dog breeds are perfect for carrying in specially designed backpacks, as many dogs feel a lot safer being in close contact with their owner while on the bike – especially if they sre new to it. Something to consider when shopping, is finding a backpack that provides comfort not only for your dog but also for you – since you are the one who eill be carrying the load! Incidentally, you will also want to think about how long you will be able to sustain being in the saddle using the backpack option. It may be quick and convenient, but the backpack is only really suitable for shorter rides. Aside from being an option limited to use for smaller breeds, there are few cons to this adorable mode of transport for your best friend!
The bike leash Best for adventures! While less appropriate for road cycling, a harness and leash for your dog made specifically for bike rides has the potential to make for a really fun time if you are looking for a little adventure while giving your dog (and yourself!) some quality exercise.This is the perfect option for bigger dogs and keen athletes – who are both looking to rack up the miles! If your dog is powerful it is likely to out run you, so make sure you opt for a bungee-style leash to avoid sudden jerking. And an absolute must is a non-pull harness for your pooch that is every bit durable as it is comfortable. Most cyclists feel safer with long leashes on the bike to reduce the chances of colliding with their dog, providing you have got the space to play with!
On short and hilly trips, a well-conditioned dog may be completely fine with four-on-the-floor over several days. For longer distance, higher speeds, or multi-day trips, some sort of dog-carry option will be essential. Many folks with smaller dogs have had great success with front or rear baskets, and in some cases a backpack. Others with a large breed or two dogs have towed two-wheeled trailers designed for use with children on wide tracks and roads.
Since we are riding mainly off-road, and Mira tips the scales at 19kg (45lbs), a Bob Yak (or similar) single-wheel trailer has worked well for us in the past. Trailers have some inherent drawbacks, so we have switched to a mid-tail bike with a longer wheelbase. Whichever type of carrier you choose, it is imperative to pad the floor and walls well. The rough trails and hard-sided carrier could injure your dog. Wall/floor padding and a compact area that's just big enough for the dog to curl up in will help to keep a dog safe and comfortable during long days on bumpy trails. Some dogs may prefer to stand up. Take care to avoid sudden turns or braking that may cause your dog to fall out. This setup works while on the bike or while you are walking beside and pushing the bike. After all, with bikepacking comes hike-a-bike.
Trailer A single-wheeled trailer, such as the BOB Yak or Burley Coho XC, will allow you to use your current bike. The Robert Axle Project has thru-axle solutions for the BoB trailer and many other bicycle axle configurations. This setup allows you to tackle singletrack trails and urban sections with relative ease. The centre of mass is kept low and shared between wheels. These trailers are not really designed for live (non-static) loads or high speeds (40kmph+), so it is essential that you make the choice that's best for you and for your dog.
To improve comfort and to protect Mira, I contacted Scott at Porcelain Rocket to build us a custom padded and reinforced liner for the trailer. Rockgiest Bikepack USAnow owns the Porcelain Rocket designs and would be a great place to contact if you are interested in the best BoB trailer liner. With some creativity, and a few visits to the hardware and fabric store, you may be able to DIY pad the trailer basket quite well at home. A simple plastic splash guard, the type designed for MTB downtubes, mounted to the front yoke of the trailer is key in order to provide protection from spray / debris from the bike's rear wheel. We use RexSpecks to help protect dog's eyes from sun, wind, dust and debris as well.
It only required a few days of training in our local park for both Mira and I to become accustomed to the nuances of the trailer or basket. Attention should be paid to the leash to prevent entanglement with the rear wheel while the dog is in the trailer. This is a video of our training sessions. Unweighted trailers bounce on rough terrain and won't always track very well. This can shorten the life of the trailer wheel bearings. Spare bearings are simple to install and it may be useful to pack extras for longer trips in remote areas. This liner/trailer combo has proved dependable for covering big miles on dirt. Eventually, the downsides, mostly weight, length, and added mechanical anxieties, got me thinking about other options.
Cargo Bike or Basket Our current bike setup is the Salsa Blackborow. The Blackborow is a mid-tail fatbike with a robust rear rack. The extended wheelbase conveniently provides room for a padded basket on top of the rack. This design creates a surprisingly well-balanced rig that is stable at all speeds yet responsive enough to handle technical singletrack. The overall weight and length are also far less than with a trailer, and it handles well when unloaded. Mira is able to jump into and out of the basket many times a day. I use well-timed tension on her leash (connected to a harness) to help with this.
Remember that padding is key for your dog's comfort and safety. Mira is at home in her basket, and will stay in it without complaint, so much so that she will often fall asleep if I leave her and the bike leaned up against a wall outside a shop. If your dog is on the smaller side, then a padded basket mounted to a standard front or rear rack may be a great option for you. The height of a bike-mounted basket may also help to protect your dog from hazards such as aggressive dogs. Plus, it's easy to reach them should you need to while riding.
Dog Strollers Although these are not going to enable you to cycle with your dog, they might make more walking journeys possible. And like trailers, you can expect upper weight limits to range between 20kg and 50kg, which will accommodate a wide range of dogs. A stroller can really benefit a dog who is more senior, tires easily, has reduced mobility, or is a young pup. When your dog's energy is limited, a ride in a stroller could preserve it for maximum fun, stimulation and socialising once you've reached a dog walking spot. Models and price points vary greatly, so consider if you will require features such as:
Durable or light weight frame
Additional storage
Sun, wind and/or rain protection
Folding design for storage
The ability to convert to a bike trailer.
Cautions ! We strongly advise against placing packs on any dog while bikepacking, as the extra weight may lead to joint injury. In bear country or around livestock it is best to keep your dog on a leash. Dogs may return to owners with angry mama bears in pursuit. Agitated cattle are at risk of injuring your dog or themselves and ranchers will not take kindly to your pet harassing their animals. They will hold you responsible for any damage. Traffic patterns where we ride are mainly on the right side of the road. For this reason, I have trained Mira to run on the right side as well.
This way, I can help protect her from other vehicles when on the road. Make adjustments as needed. If leaving the bike unattended with a dog in the carrier, be sure the bike can not tip over and cause injury to the dog or bike. I will often connect the leash to a post as cheap insurance against this happening. The same applies if your dog is out of the carrier. Connecting the leash to a pedal or somewhere low on the bike will reduce the chance that an excited dog will be able to topple the heavy bike over on them.
Biking with your dogs can be risky if you are not prepared. Before you go pedaling into the sunset, you will need to get the right equipment and teach your dog how to be safe on the road. Biking with your dog the right way starts with getting all the correct gear. However, the gear you need depends on what you expect your dog will be doing, whether they are running alongside you or playing passenger in a biking basket.
First things first, a vet can help determine whether biking is safe for your dog. Certain breeds and individual dogs may have limitations or health conditions that make biking unsafe or uncomfortable for them. Here are some questions you might want to ask your vet: Can my dog handle the physical demands of biking? What are the potential risks and what safety precautions should I take? Are there any long term health problems associated with biking?
Prioritize Your Safety! Always wear a helmet, hydrate yourself, use hand signals to indicate turns and stops, and install a bike bell. Also, do not be afraid to use your voice to advocate for yourself and your dog if other trail users are behaving irresponsibly. Remember, if you get injured, your dog is left alone attached to a bike. So, take care of yourself and do not push your limits.
Size of Dog Matters When humans pedal bikes, they move really fast, so only bike with a dog that can keep up. Think twice before exercising with an energetic Chihuahua, terrier or hyperactive young puppy. Small dogs must run at maximum capacity during a bike ride, and it is impossible for them to comfortably maintain this speed. Additionally, biking with a dog under two years old is highly discouraged because adolescent dogs are still growing, and high impact exercise can cause permanent damage. Ideally, it is best to bike ride with healthy medium or large-sized dogs over two years old.
What age should you start training your dog to ride bikes with you? Puppies are not made for endurance, and if they run too much, too soon they can have some serious injuries to their growing bones and joints. At around 18 months, dogs are fully grown and can generally go on longer trots in the woods. I suggest first asking your vet for advice on if and when your dog would be up for long runs.
Schedule Regular Bike Maintenance and Check-Ups Regular maintenance and check-ups will keep your bike in great working condition. Before every ride, check tire pressure, brakes, and your bike leash. If you’re like me and know nothing about bike maintenance, schedule regular tune-ups with a professional bike shop or mechanic. They can perform a comprehensive inspection to address any issues. Tune-ups may include wheel truing, drivetrain cleaning, bearing adjustments, and other necessary adjustments or repairs.
Basic Training and Socializing Before biking with your dog, teach them basic obedience. Practice commands like "sit," "stay," and "heel" both on and off the bike. I also use the commands "look at me," "slow," and "wait." Your dog does not have to be perfect! It just needs to grasp the basics. Socialization is also important. Expose your dog to different environments, people, and animals to help them become confident and non-reactive. When Moose was a puppy, we took him to a dog trainer who taught us a game called "Observe Don't React." It is a simple game where dogs are rewarded with treats for watching and not reacting to various situations and stimuli. You start from a distance your dog can handle and get closer over time. We played the game on busy sidewalks, in front of grocery stores, and outside of dog parks. We went from a puppy who barks at everyone and everything, to a pretty calm dog. I always recommend the game to people who want to minimize their dog's anxiety and boost their confidence.
Introducing Your Dog to the Bike Gradually introduce your dog to the bike. Just put the dog next to the bike to get him used to the sounds and movements before trying to go for a ride together. Start by letting them explore and sniff the bike while it is stationary, rewarding them with treats and praise. Then try taking them out for short walks with the bike, and eventually, short rides in a safe and controlled environment. Encourage and reward your dog for good behaviour during the bike ride. Use verbal praise and treats to reinforce positive actions, like staying by your side, responding to commands, or navigating obstacles calmly. Positive reinforcement helps build a strong bond between you and your dog and makes biking fun for them. Once your dog is comfortable with biking, you can gradually introduce distractions like other cyclists, pedestrians, and dogs. The more exposure your dog gets, the easier it will be for them to remain calm around potential distractions.
Start Slow Just like humans, dogs need time to adjust to new activities. Begin with shorter rides and gradually increase the duration and distance. This lets your dog build up their stamina and adapt to the physical demands of biking. Before starting your bike ride, a short warm-up walk will help your dog stretch their muscles. It is also a good idea to end your ride with a cool-down to slowly lower their heart rate. Once the dog is comfortable being around the bike, you will want to start slow. Dogs need to build stamina to bike alongside their human, since their muscles and their paw pads are not used to running in this way. Biking is not like playing in the yard for hours. Try 5-10 minutes the first week for rides, and increase from there. Running on hard surfaces can be dangerous, so dogs must be conditioned before heading out for longer rides lasting more than a few minutes at a time.
Know Your Dog's Limits It is so important that you respect your dog's limits and fitness level. Pay close attention to their behaviour throughout the ride. Watch for signs of fatigue, stress, or discomfort, such as excessive panting, lagging behind, or reluctance to continue. Adjust your pace or take breaks as needed. Some dogs will push their limits because they are eager to please. This is the case with my dog and many other Labrador retrievers. To compensate for this, I take extra breaks and watch his behaviour closely.
Stay Attentive and Responsive Keep an eye out for anything that might distract or upset your dog. My biggest fear is off-leash dogs. Even a friendly off-leash dog has the potential to wreck us, so I only bike on designated on-leash trails. If l see an off-leash dog, or an out of control on-leash dog, I turn the bike around. If I do not have time, I stop the bike.
Position is Key Teach your dog to hang out on the side of your bike. Your dog should not cross over in front while you are riding. Better yet, use a safety device to hold your dog's leash in place. This way, you can use both hands to steer your bike. This device attaches to your bike and keeps your dog safely away from moving bike wheels. Before riding off into the sunset, attach your dog to this safety device and push your bike around for a few days.
Choose Dog-Friendly Routes Finding some good routes is key to enjoying your bike ride. Look for local parks, nature reserves, or trail systems that permit dogs. Off-road trails are great choices because they have less distractions, no car traffic, and are easier on your dog's paws. I like multi-use paths that are shared by hikers and cyclists. They have wide lanes and are perfect for biking. If you can find some, shaded trails can help prevent your dog from overheating. I also look for trails near lakes or rivers so that Moose can cool off in the water. As always, be aware of any local regulations regarding dogs in public spaces.
Be Mindful of Temperature Dogs are more susceptible to temperature extremes than humans. Avoid biking during the hottest parts of the day, especially when temperatures are high. Excessive heat can cause your dog to overheat or get burns on their paw pads from hot pavement. To play it safe, I have a rule of not biking with my dog when it is above 20°C (68°F). On days pushing near 20°C, we take it really slow. Every dog is different, and some handle the heat better than others, but my dog is not a fan of hot weather. On the flip side, if you bike in winter, consider dog booties or other protective gear to keep your dog's paws protected from the ice, salt, and cold. It is not uncommon for dogs to get frostbite on their paws.
What if you lose your dog on the trail? When training your dog, you should be confident in their recall abilities before heading out to the trail off-leash. They should know to stay with you at all times, regardless of distractions. If your dog does get too far away from you, make sure you have a well-rehearsed recall command. I have a very specific loud noise ("boop boop") that Annie Mae knows to stop whatever she is doing and get back to me. After that, if for some reason you and your dog get separated, make sure your dog is microchipped and wears a collar with your contact information.
Never Force Your Dog If your dog consistently displays fear, anxiety, or resistance to biking, do not force them to do it. Not all dogs enjoy biking. Find alternative activities that you can enjoy together instead. There are so many other fun things to do, like hiking, fetching, agility, frisbee, swimming, scent training, camping, canicross, skijoring, and dock diving.
Allow Your Dog to Set the Pace When walking, jogging or biking with a dog, it's important to allow your dog to set the pace. Dogs feel most comfortable trotting when they are able to cover ground effortlessly. Running at maximum speed is too much for a dog, so watch your dog's gait as you vary speeds on your bike. Slow down and watch your dog's movement for an easy trot, then adjust your pedaling speed to maintain that trot.
Check Paw Pads Frequently Your dog's paw pads will take a beating during bike rides, especially on concrete and asphalt roads. Starting slowly provides time for a dog's paw pad to adjust to rough surfaces, but sometimes it is too much. Before a bike ride, stand on a sidewalk or road with bare feet. If you are unable to stand on it yourself, then your dog should not run or walk on it. Hot pavement will burn pads, but excessive running on hard surfaces can burn pads too. Check your dog's paw pads often during bike rides. Choose sidewalks that have grassy areas. These will be much easier on your dog's paw pads.
Keep a close eye on your pooch while running It is important to go slow and monitor their health. Dogs do not have the same stamina as humans. He cautions against taking dogs out when it is too hot outside, or for long rides that humans on wheels would find easy. Remember this is not a bike ride for you, it's for your dog. "Avoid going long distances, going on rough trails, or in any heat. The ride should be slow and easy the entire time with opportunities for breaks. Check in with your dog constantly to make sure they are enjoying the activity and are not getting too tired. Once your pup is tired, it is time to pack it in for a rest.
Your biggest consideration when it comes to biking with your dog is safety - yours, your dog's and that of people around you. To ensure your safety, it can help to invest in an attachment that allows you to place the force of your dog's pulling low on your bike's center of gravity. If you bike along while holding the dog's leash in your hands, you are at risk of several problems:
Your dog can pull the leash out of your hands.
Your dog can pull you over sideways.
Your dog can pull on the handlebars and cause you to turn the bike precipitously.
Attaching the dog's leash to the seat post or back wheel axle reduces the risk of an accident.
USE A BREAKAWAY LEASH Additionally, if your dog is on a normal leash, he/she can go on the opposite side of an obstacle. If the obstacle is something solid, such as a pole or tree, then you might crash, if the obstacle is something living, such as a human, it can be disastrous for everyone involved. For that reason, a breakaway leash is recommended. And because the risk of an accident or even just sudden stops and turns is increased, it is especially important that the human bike-rider wear a helmet.
USE A BODY HARNESS
INSTEAD OF A COLLAR For your dog's safety, the dog should never run with a bike (or even worse, pull) while wearing any sort of neck collar, especially a tightening collar, such as a choke chain or martingale. It is extremely dangerous to ride a bike with a dog on a head halter of any sort. Your dog should always wear a body harness. Check frequently to see if the harness fits well and is not chaffing.
How Can You Safely
Bike with a Dog? Biking with your dog can seem simple: you pedal, and they run alongside you. But it actually takes a lot of training and discipline for a dog to keep pace with you. The following question checklist can tell you if your dog is ready to join you on the road. If you are not confident your dog matches every item on this list, you will need to train them more before it is safe to bike.
Do they know how to loose-leash walk? - Pet parents should ensure their dogs stay by their side on walks even if the leash is loose enough for them to run ahead.
Can they stay calm? - Before you bike, practice jogging or rollerblading with them to see how your dog reacts to speed. Make sure they do not get riled up and criss-cross in front of you.
Can they stay focused? - Biking may not be the best idea if your dog has a strong chase instinct. If your high-energy dog is distracted, they could lead your bike astray and lead to injuries.
Are they responsive? - Hartstein says it is important to get your dog's attention before making a turn so they know which direction to follow.
Which Dog Breeds Should
& Should not Bike?
Generally, biking workouts are best for larger and more active breeds, such as Border Collies, Labrador Retrievers, and Huskies. These dogs were bred to work and hunt, so they need at least an hour of exercise a day to get their energy out. Your dog does not need to be an all-star athlete to enjoy trotting alongside your bike. Just remember you will need to pedal slower for smaller dogs. A Cairn Terrier is not going to cover ground as quickly as a German Shepherd. That said, not all dogs are suited for this kind of workout. Brachycephalic breeds have flat snouts that are difficult to breathe through, so they easily overexert themselves while running. If you have a Pug, Shih Tzu, or French Bulldog, they will likely be happier in the passenger's seat when you ride.
How to Plan a Successful
Bike Ride With Your Dog
To make the bike ride fun for everyone, you will need to set your dog up for success. Make sure you have:
A safe location: - The best biking routes have little traffic or distractions. Make sure the surface your dog runs on is sturdy and dry.
Weather - appropriate outfits: When it is cold or rainy, give your dog a raincoat. When it is dark out, get a reflective leash.
A healthy Pace - If your dog is panting heavily and falling behind the bike, it is time for a break.
Fuel - Always bring water so your dog stays hydrated through the workout. A portable water bowl or water bottle works wonders. A treat or two for quick energy could not hurt either.
Be Careful
With the Weather! Above all, the safety of your dog is paramount, with the weather conditions being a significant factor to assess. Remember that the fur covering your dog will make your dog hotter than you, especially long hair breeds. Dog bike trailers can help to give your pet a rest! Try to limit the amount of time your dog is in direct sunlight and try to ride in cooler climates. It is also important to remember to take lots of breaks for shade and carry lots of drinks to prevent heat exhaustion. Here are the signs that your dog may be experiencing heat stress, according to the American Kennel Club:
Seeking shade Limiting movement or restlessness Choosing to sit or lie down Uncontrolled panting Nausea and vomiting Skin reddening
Excess saliva
You could also use sunscreen to give extra protection to your dog, especially if they have light skin or white fur, or are a hairless breed. It’s important to use specially formulated sunscreen made for dogs. The dangerous signs of heatstroke that require immediate veterinary attention are:
Confusion Excessive drooling and thickening of saliva Bright red or blue or purple gums Dizziness Rectal bleeding Refusing to drink water Lethargy Loss of consciousness Seizure
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