Are Golden Retrievers Good Running Dogs?

Do you enjoy long-distance runs? Would a partner make it better? Well, Golden Retrievers are great running partners!

These working dogs have all the right qualities for an enjoyable and safe run. They’re smart, energetic, and athletic; they enjoy the outdoors, and they’re friendly and loyal companions. With the proper training, your Golden Retriever will be the best long-distance running partner you will ever get.

Let’s explore why most Golden Retrievers make such excellent running partners and how you can help your pup get started on the path to becoming a great runner.

 

Why Golden Retrievers Make Good Running Dogs

Golden Retrievers make good running dogs because they are athletic dogs and have a lot of energy. They also have a lot of patience, which makes them good at running long distances. Plus, they have the stamina to keep up with you.

Golden Retrievers are also very friendly and adaptable, so they will be happy to join you on your adventures.

Just like humans, some dogs love to run, and some don’t. Both you and your Golden Retriever will need to love runs for this to work.

Each dog is an individual with its own level of energy, competitiveness, and love for the outdoors.

If you’re a runner looking for a canine running partner, it’s important to consider all of these factors before choosing a breed.

 

How Fast Are Golden Retrievers?

How fast can Golden Retrievers run? On average, they can go as fast as 35 mph.

If you and your Golden Retriever are running long distances, then the average speed your dog will be able to do is around 12 mph.

Some Golden Retrievers can run a little faster than this. Overweight dogs and older dogs will run slower than this.

Running with your Golden when it’s old comes with risks. Make sure you look out for signs of hip dysplasia.

 

How To Train Your Golden Retriever To Be A Running Dog

Here are a few tips for training your Golden Retriever to be a running dog:

Start with short runs. If your Golden is new to running, start with short runs of a few blocks. Gradually increase the distance as they get used to it. You and your Golden Retriever will be able to go on long distances a few months into training.

Regular exercise will help build stamina. After two weeks of training, increase the distance. After a month, aim for a five-mile run a few times a week. This should be after a month of regular exercise once you can tell your dog’s fitness level is ready for this.

Use positive reinforcement. Reward your Golden with treats, verbal praise, or petting when they run with you. This will encourage them to keep up the good work!

Be consistent. Go for a run at the same time each day so that your Golden gets into a routine.

This will make it easier for them to follow your lead. You also need to show your little one who the pack leader is.

MAKE IT FUN! Mix up your route and let them stop to sniff and explore along the way. This will help keep their interest levels high and make running more enjoyable for both of you.

Be patient. Training your Golden Retriever to be a running dog can take time and patience. Don’t expect them to be able to keep up with you immediately.

It may take a few months before your Golden Retriever is running at their full potential.

By following these tips, you can help your Golden Retriever become a great fitness partner.

With the right training, they will quickly become an indispensable member of your family!

Leash training

• LEASH TRAINING IS A MUST!
• When you start leash training with your Golden Retriever pup, you need to choose a side that they must always walk on. Either your right or left side.
• Use command words that are simple and positive reinforcement.
• Loose leash walking will need to be taught before your Golden Retrievers’ first run.
• You can use a slack leash to see if your Golden Retriever is comfortable using a leash.
• Leash training will need to be done before you take your Golden Retriever running with you.
• Consider using a hands-free leash when your Golden Retriever becomes a pro runner.

 

Are Golden Retrievers Good Off Leash?

Golden Retrievers are great off-leash, and we can see why the American Kennel Club keeps voting them as one of the best dog breeds. (Golden Retrievers usually rank TOP 10 every year!)

 

Tips For Running With Your Golden Retriever

Assuming your Golden Retriever is healthy and up for the challenge, running with your pup can be a great bonding experience!

Here are some tips to make sure both you and your Golden Retriever have a fun and safe time:

Start slow

Just like humans, a Golden Retriever needs to ease into running. Start with shorter distances and slower speeds, gradually working up to longer distances and faster paces.

Pay attention to the weather

It’s important to keep your dog comfortable while running, so take heat and humidity into account when planning your route.

If it’s too hot out, run early in the morning or later at night when it’s cooler. You have to remember that you have shoes on, and they probably don’t, so the temperature of the tar or ground might be very hot for their paws.

If it’s raining, consider running on pavement instead of trails to prevent any injuries that might happen in the mud.

Carry water (and a bowl)

Dogs need to stay hydrated just like people, so bring along water for yourself and your dog. A portable dog bowl makes it easy to give them quick drinks throughout the run. A good rule of thumb is to give your dog about 1 ounce of water per pound of body weight per day. You can even carry a poop holder bag in case your Golden Retriever feels the need to go to the loo.

Carrying these items is important if you’re considering running with your Golden Retriever for a long distance.

Be aware of your surroundings

Be aware of other animals and people. Dogs can get excited when they see other animals and people on a run, which may result in them taking off after them.

Keep your dog on a leash until you’re both comfortable with them staying close by your side.

If you encounter another runner or pedestrian, remember to social distance. Move over to let them pass safely. You never know how other people feel about dogs.

Keep an eye on your Golden Retriever for joint disorders

Golden Retrievers are prone to getting hip dysplasia, usually when they become older Retrievers. Running with your Golden can make hip dysplasia worse. You should speak to your veterinarian about joint problems and supplements.

95% of Golden Retrievers have joint laxity. This high number is the reason for Golden Retrievers often being linked to this health condition.

 

Know When To Stop

It’s important for Golden Retriever owners to know when to stop running with their Golden Retriever.

If they are panting excessively, have droopy ears, or are lagging behind you, it’s time to call it quits.

Running in hot weather can be dangerous for dogs, so always make sure to check the temperature before heading out. If it’s too hot for you, it’s probably too hot for your Golden Retriever.

Long distances can be hard for your Golden Retriever at first, so make sure you can read their signals to tell when they are done.

 

Are Golden Retriever Puppies Suitable As Running Partners?

A Golden Retriever puppy should not run until all their bones have developed.

During the growing period, a puppy’s joints will be more prone to injuries.

You might have to wait until around 16 months to take this large breed out for its first run. Smaller breeds take around six months to fully grow all their bones.

It’s important for you to socialize Golden Retriever puppies first before they start to run so they aren’t so distracted by all the other dogs.

If you have adopted a dog from an animal shelter or something similar, make sure the dog is at a healthy weight before you start running with it.

 

FAQs

How far can you run with a Golden Retriever?

The answer depends on a few factors, including the age and health of your dog, as well as how active you both are.

The average adult Golden Retriever can easily run five miles without any problems. However, if you are planning on running longer distances with your dog, it’s important to build up their endurance slowly to avoid any injuries.

When can I jog with my Golden Retriever?

Assuming your Golden Retriever is fully grown, you can start jogging with them anytime! If they are still a puppy, however, you’ll need to wait until they are at least 16 months old before starting.

Golden Retrievers are relatively high-energy dogs, so they can handle longer distances than some other breeds. Just be sure to start slow and build up gradually. Both for their sake and yours!

Can a Golden Retriever run a half marathon?

Yes, a Golden Retriever can run a half marathon, but only if they are properly trained and in good health. Just like any other runner, a Golden Retriever will need to build up their mileage gradually to avoid injury.

 

Conclusion

In conclusion, Golden Retrievers make great running dogs with their energetic personalities and strong stamina.

They are loyal, loving, and intelligent companions that can keep up with you on your runs as well as provide a nice cuddle at the end of them.

Although they need to have some good exercise every day to stay healthy and happy, they don’t require a lot of time or effort, so they’re perfect for busy people who still want an active pup.

So, if you’re looking for a furry friend to join you on your morning jog or afternoon run, consider getting yourself a Goldie. A Golden Retriever run sounds so much better than a solo run. Barksinthepark has a load more information on Goldens Retrievers that is absolutely GOLDEN! (See what I did there?)