What to Bear in Mind When Going Cycling With Dogs

What’s better than going on a nice bike ride in the great outdoors on a warm summer day? It’s even more fun with your four-legged friend! How do we get a dog used to running alongside as we cycle and what do we have to bear in mind when we going cycling with our dog?

How do I get my dog used to the bike?

In order to initially familiarise your dog with the unknown quantity, you shouldn’t get on your bike straight away during the first training sessions. At the start, you will merely push along your bike. Before the first walk with your dog and bike, your dog should at first sit and wait until it receives the command to run from you. Take your four-legged friend on a short lead and push the bike between the two of you.

What you have to bear in mind when going cycling with dogs:

• Make sure that your dog runs on the side away from the traffic.
• Never wrap the lead around the handlebars when you are out on your bike with your dog.
• When you push the bike, your dog should be on a loose lead and should always be at saddle height.

Occasionally change direction and the tempo. Let your dog dismount as soon as you stop. If this exercise goes smoothly, you can switch to the next stage of training.

© DoraZett / stock.adobe.com

How to begin cycling with your dog

Now you can sit on your bike and slowly start riding it. On the first few occasions, you should chooses walks or tracks with as little traffic as possible. Practise negotiating slight bends with your dog as well as avoiding obstacles. Only when you’re completely certain that your dog is following your commands can you go out on the streets. However, only increase gradually the tempo and duration of your trips.

Further tips

• Running whilst cycling is prohibited for young dogs up to the age of 12 months, sick and old dogs.
• Never feed your dog straight before going for a ride.
• It’s very exhausting for a dog to run alongside a bike, so you should avoid rides on hot, humid days.
• Factor in regular breaks for your dog to recuperate. You should always have water on hand for your pet during bike rides.
• When planning your ride, you should avoid long paved routes, because this coarse road surface is tough on sensitive dog paws.
• Avoid heavily congested roads, because car exhaust fumes are dangerous for you and your dog. Trips out in open areas are certainly more relaxing for you and your dog.