When Can I Start Running With My Dog? Vet‑Backed Guide

A woman runs across a bridge with her dog at high speed, showing they are an experienced running duo

Short answer: Most healthy dogs can start structured running once their growth plates have closed and their bodies are fully mature—typically around 12–18 months for many breeds and up to 24 months for large and giant breeds. Always check with your veterinarian first, because age, breed, and health all play a role in when your dog is truly ready to run.

If you're wondering — “When can I start running with my dog?” — it's likely because you're wanting to step up the pace of daily walks or train with their 4-legged friend. While you may be eager to jump in and hit the paces, starting too early (or pushing too hard) can put real strain on their developing joints and ligaments. Vet-backed guidance emphasizes waiting until a dog’s musculoskeletal system is mature and tailoring your plans to your dog’s size and health rather than using a one-size-fits-all timeline.

In this guide, we’ll walk through:

How old your dog should be before you start running
How to tell if your dog is physically and mentally ready
Which breeds make better running partners (and which don’t)
A simple ramp-up plan to begin running safely
Key safety tips, from weather and surfaces to recovery
Recommended EzyDog® running gear to make every mile smoother

Why You Can’t Just Start Running With Any Dog, Any Time

When dogs sprint around the yard or wrestle at the park, they’re doing short bursts of activity on varied surfaces, with plenty of built-in breaks. That’s very different from a structured run on pavement or hard-packed trail, where your dog is repeating the same motion over and over for miles.

Veterinarians and canine sports experts warn that repetitive, high-impact exercise on an immature skeleton can injure the growth plates in a young dog’s long bones, potentially leading to limb deformities and earlier joint problems such as hip or elbow dysplasia. Many puppy-exercise guidelines also stress waiting until skeletal maturity before starting a running program.

Even in adult dogs, too much mileage, too fast—or running in extreme heat, on hot pavement, or when a dog is overweight or out of shape—can increase the risk of injury. The goal is to bring your dog into running as a canine athlete, not just a furry training partner trying to keep up.

A woman who is running with her dog takes a break to check on their health before continuing. the dog is wearing gear designed for hands-free running and control.

How Old Should My Dog Be Before We Run?

Most vets agree: don’t run long distances with a puppy. Instead, wait until your dog is physically mature and your vet has given the green light for a running routine. Expert guidance on running with your dog and vet-written puppy exercise advice generally suggest waiting until at least late adolescence, often between about 12 and 18 months (and up to 24 months for some large and giant breeds), so that growth plates have fully closed.

Dog Running Age Guide by Size

Every dog is different, but here’s a general guideline for when your dog can start regular running (not just playtime zoomies):

Dog Size	Example Breeds	Approx. Age to Start Structured Running*
Toy & Small (under ~25 lbs)	Cavalier King Charles, Mini Poodle, small terriers	Around 12 months+
Medium (25–50 lbs)	Cocker Spaniel, Border Collie, Aussie	12–15 months+
Large (50–80 lbs)	Labrador, Golden Retriever, Husky	15–18 months+
Giant (80+ lbs)	Great Dane, Saint Bernard, Mastiff	18–24 months+

*Always confirm with your veterinarian. Some vets prefer the cautious end of these ranges or slightly later for heavy, large-breed dogs.

What About Puppies & Growth Plates?

Your puppy will absolutely run on their own. That’s normal and healthy. The key is to avoid forced, repetitive running on hard surfaces, like jogging several miles with a six-month-old pup.

Some vets and canine rehab specialists reference a conservative guideline often called the “5-minute rule” for puppy exercise: about five minutes of continuous, structured exercise per month of age, up to twice per day, until growth plates close. It isn’t a rigid law or a substitute for veterinary advice, but it’s a helpful reminder to keep things short while your puppy is still growing.

Before your dog hits running age, focus instead on:

Short walks that gradually increase in distance and pace
Leash skills (no pulling, staying on one side, checking in with you)
Basic obedience (sit, stay, leave it, come)
Positive experiences in different environments and surfaces

This early work pays off later when you finally clip into a Road Runner™ Leash and head out for real miles together.

Older Dogs: When to Be Careful

On the other end of the spectrum, older dogs may not be ideal running partners, especially if they have arthritis, heart or respiratory disease, or are significantly overweight. Middle-aged and senior dogs (often around 7+ years, depending on breed) may not tolerate frequent or intense running as well as they used to.

If your dog is a senior, ask your vet about appropriate distances, pace, and surfaces. Sometimes brisk walks, short soft-surface jogs, or hikes are a better “retirement sport” than regular road running.

Which Dogs Are (and Aren’t) Built for Running?

Breed and body type matter. While almost any healthy adult dog can enjoy some running, certain dogs are better suited to it than others.

Dogs That Often Make Great Running Partners

High-energy, athletic breeds typically excel at running, especially if conditioned gradually; this lines up with many vet-written guides to running with your dog:

Herding breeds (Border Collies, Australian Shepherds)
Sporting breeds (Labrador & Golden Retrievers, Vizslas, Weimaraners)
Working and versatile breeds (German Shorthaired Pointers, Huskies)

These breeds tend to have efficient gaits, good stamina, and a strong desire to work with their humans when properly trained.

Dogs That May Not Be Good Running Partners

Other dogs need a more cautious or limited approach:

Brachycephalic (short-nosed) breeds like Pugs, French Bulldogs, Boston Terriers, and English Bulldogs often struggle with heat and breathing. Many are not suited for distance running at all.
Very small or toy breeds may do better with short runs or jog-walk intervals instead of long road sessions.
Giant, heavy breeds can be more prone to orthopedic issues; stick to softer surfaces, shorter distances, and a very gradual buildup.
Dogs with existing joint, heart, or respiratory disease may need modified exercise plans or should avoid running entirely.

When in doubt, talk to your vet. They know your dog’s health history and can help you decide if running is a good fit—and if so, how to start.

Health & Behavior Checklist: Is My Dog Ready to Run?

Before you type “what age can my dog start running” into Google again, use this simple checklist. Your dog is more likely ready for a running program if:

Your vet has cleared them specifically for running, not just “exercise.”
They’re at or near their adult size (growth plates likely closed based on age and breed).
They can walk briskly for 30–45 minutes without heavy panting, limping, or lagging behind.
Their weight is healthy (you can feel ribs under a light fat layer).
They have good leash manners and aren’t dragging you, zig-zagging wildly, or lunging.
They know core cues like “leave it,” “easy,” “stop,” and “come.”
They recover well after exercise and don’t seem stiff, sore, or reluctant to move the next day.

If you’re seeing big red flags—like heavy pulling, leash reactivity, or soreness after normal walks—address those before layering in running. A supportive harness like the X-Link™ Dog Harness, with front and rear leash attachment points, can help you regain control and reduce pulling while you train.

How to Start Running With Your Dog (4–6 Week Ramp-Up)

Once your dog is old enough and your vet has cleared you, the golden rule is: run your dog’s run, not your training plan. That means starting conservatively and increasing distance slowly, even if you could run farther on your own. This mirrors the gradual approach often recommended in guides to training your dog to run with you.

Here’s a simple starter progression. Adjust the pace, number of sessions per week (2–4), and rest days based on how your dog is handling it.

Week 1: Jog–Walk Introductions

5-minute warmup walk
Alternate 1 minute easy jog / 2 minutes walk for 15–20 minutes total
5-minute cool-down walk and water break

Week 2: Slightly Longer Efforts

5-minute warmup walk
Alternate 2 minutes jog / 2 minutes walk for 20–25 minutes
Cool down and check paws, joints, and overall energy after the run

Weeks 3–4: Building Continuous Running

Gradually link intervals together: 5–10 minutes easy running with short walk breaks
Cap total time at 25–30 minutes of mixed walking and running

Weeks 5–6: Finding Your Dog’s Sweet Spot

Optional: build toward 20–30 minutes of mostly continuous easy running
Keep at least one full rest day (or just a short sniffy walk) between run days
Increase distance by no more than ~10–15% per week if your dog is thriving

If your dog starts lagging behind, pulling to stop, or panting excessively despite cool conditions and breaks, back off. Shorter, happy runs beat one overcooked run that turns them off the sport entirely.

A woman and her dog showcase their gear they run with which includes a folding water bowl, hands-free bungee leash, and a soft padded neoprene dog harness made for agility

Safety Tips for Every Run

To keep running with your dog safe and enjoyable, keep these essentials in mind—they echo common veterinary advice on jogging with your dog and expert tips on safely running with your dog:

1. Watch the Weather

Heat: Dogs don’t sweat like humans. High heat + humidity = higher risk of heatstroke. Most vets recommend running early morning or late evening in summer and avoiding hot pavement entirely. If the ground is too hot to hold your hand on comfortably, it’s too hot for paws. For a deeper dive on heat and weather safety, explore more detailed guidance on running with your dog.
Cold: Very cold temps, ice, and road salt can irritate paws. Shorten runs or use dog booties if needed.

2. Protect Paws & Joints

Prioritize softer surfaces like dirt trails or grass when you can.
Check paws after every run for cuts, abrasions, or lodged debris.
Mix in lower-impact days (walks or sniffy hikes) to let joints recover.

3. Hydration & Fuel

Carry water for both of you on runs longer than ~20–30 minutes or in warm weather.
Use a lightweight, packable bowl like the Fold-A-Bowl included in the EzyDog Running Bundle to make hydrating on the go quick and easy.
Avoid big meals right before running to reduce the risk of GI upset or bloat.

4. Leash Etiquette & Awareness

Keep your dog on the side away from traffic.
Shorten the leash and put yourself between your dog and others when passing people or dogs.
Teach cues like “easy,” “left,” “right,” and “on by” to navigate turns and distractions smoothly.

5. Rest & Recovery

Build in rest days, especially after longer or harder runs.
Let your dog cool down in the shade and offer fresh water.
Watch for stiffness, limping, or reluctance to jump into the car or onto furniture later that day or the next morning.

An Infographic demonstrating the features and products included in the EzyDog Running Bundle. It showcases a woman and her dog connected by a hands-free Road Runner Leash and the dog is wearing a Quick Fit Dog Harness designed for long-lasting comfort and mobility.

Gear That Makes Running Easier (EzyDog Picks)

You don’t need a mountain of gear to start running with your dog, but the right setup can make the experience smoother, safer, and more fun for both of you. Here’s how to kit out your run with EzyDog.

1. Hands-Free, Shock-Absorbing Leash

A hands-free leash keeps your arms relaxed, improves your running form, and reduces the risk of dropping the leash if you trip or adjust your headphones. A built-in bungee also softens the jolt if your dog changes speed or direction suddenly.

Try: Road Runner™ Leash

Clips around your waist or shoulder for true hands-free running
Features EzyDog’s Zero Shock™ cushioning to absorb sudden pulls and protect both you and your dog
Fully adjustable 7-foot design to fine-tune distance between you and your dog
Soft, comfortable webbing and reflective trim for low-light visibility

2. Secure, Comfortable Harness

For running, a well-fitted harness is usually safer and more comfortable than attaching directly to a collar. Harnesses help distribute pressure across the chest and shoulders instead of the neck, especially if your dog occasionally pulls.

Great options from EzyDog:

Quick Fit™ Dog Harness — A secure, padded harness designed for active dogs. It’s easy to fit, waterproof, and built for all-day comfort, making it ideal for everyday walks that transition into shorter runs.
X-Link™ Dog Harness — A reflective, no-pull harness with both front and rear leash attachment points. Use the front D-ring when you’re still working on pulling, then switch to the rear for smoother, settled runs.
Chest Plate Dog Harness — A contoured, padded chest plate design for a secure fit and excellent control, especially for strong pullers.

3. Hydration & Convenience: Running Bundle

If you’d rather not piece everything together, EzyDog’s Running Bundle packages key running essentials in one set:

Quick Fit™ Harness for secure, comfortable control
Road Runner™ Leash for hands-free, shock-absorbing running
Fold-A-Bowl™ for lightweight, packable on-the-go hydration

You save compared to buying each item separately, and you’re essentially ready to step out the door once your vet gives the nod.

4. Be Seen in Low Light

Running early or late? Visibility is non-negotiable for safety.

Add: GO2 Multi-Color Dog Light

USB-rechargeable LED beacon visible up to 500m
Works with most harnesses, collars, and even leashes
Multiple color and flash modes to stand out in low light or night runs

Combined with the reflective trim built into many EzyDog harnesses and leashes, this helps you and your dog stay visible on roads and trails.

A dog stands in the forest at dusk, wearing an EzyDog express harness with attached GO2 dog light for visibility, demonstrating that visibility is important for safely running with dogs

FAQs: Common Questions About Running With Your Dog

Can I run with my 6-month-old puppy?

Generally, no. Most six-month-old puppies are still growing, and their growth plates are not fully closed. Vet-backed guidance on running with your dog and puppy exercise recommendations typically suggest waiting until at least 9–12 months for smaller breeds and closer to 18 months or more for large and giant breeds before starting regular running. Short, playful bursts and gentle walks are fine; structured multi-mile runs are not.

How far can I run with my dog?

There’s no universal distance. Some fit, well-conditioned dogs may comfortably run 5K or more, while others are happier with 1–2 miles at an easy pace. Factors like breed, age, conditioning, weather, and surface all matter.

A good rule of thumb: start with very short distances and only increase if your dog finishes the run looking eager, not exhausted. If they’re slowing down, dragging behind, or panting heavily in normal temperatures, you’ve gone too far.

Is it OK to run with my dog every day?

Most dogs do better with rest or light days in between harder runs. Just like human runners, dogs need time for muscles, joints, and connective tissue to recover.

Many active dogs thrive on a mix of:

2–4 days of easy to moderate runs
1–3 days of walks, training, or sniffy exploring
At least 1 full rest day per week

Let your dog’s energy, movement, and enthusiasm be your guide.

Ready to Start Running With Your Dog?

If you’re asking, “When can I start running with my dog?” you’re already thinking like a responsible pet parent. The key steps are simple:

Check with your vet about age, growth plates, and any health concerns.
Build a foundation of leash manners and short, brisk walks.
Start slow with jog–walk intervals and watch your dog’s body language closely.
Gear up with comfortable, purpose-built equipment like the Road Runner™ Leash and a secure running harness from our Dog Running Gear collection.

When you’re ready to go beyond “when” into the finer details of training, pacing, and communication on the move, be sure to check out our in-depth guide: How to Run With Your Dog.

With the right timing, smart training, and thoughtfully designed EzyDog gear, you’re set to turn everyday walks into shared adventures — one happy mile at a time.

a-girl-and-her-dog-sit-on-a-beach-connected-by-a-hands-free-dog-leash-looking-at-the-sunset