Mountain biking, trail riding, or off-road biking are fun ways to get exercise and enjoy being outdoors. Bringing your dog makes it even more rewarding!
Exercising just for the sake of exercising can be a boring, tedious task. Nevertheless, we all need it to achieve optimal health. There are many benefits: weight control, heart health, muscle tone, lung capacity, and release of endorphins into the brain. All of these same benefits apply to your dog, so why not enjoy a way for both of you to exercise together?
Dogs are Pack Animals
Dogs are pack animals. You should be seen as the pack leader. It is their nature to want to be with their pack and follow the pack leader. Dogs also need exercise, just like we do, only they can move faster and go farther than we can. It is difficult for humans to be able to physically challenge a dog. Most dogs thrive on challenge, both mentally and physically. A fun, challenging romp through the woods can fulfill both people and dogs in many ways!
If you already enjoy trail biking or mountain biking, or off-road biking, then it is easy to incorporate your dog into your ride. It is up to you to know if your dog has what it takes to go on a trail run, though. Some dogs are not physically able, due to their size or age. It is advisable to ask a vet about a dog’s readiness before embarking on such an adventure.
Hydrate Your Dog
Dogs do not have an efficient cooling system, and this is one of the most important things to keep in mind. The human body is very adept at controlling its temperature so long as it has an adequate supply of water. A dog needs plenty of water, too, more than you do! Do not bring your dog if you cannot bring enough water for him, since overheating can be fatal. The only way to carry enough water is to use a hydration pack. They come with a plastic bladder that can hold about 100 ounces of water. It fits on your back, and it has a tube to drink from. You can supplement your water supply by bringing a bottle or two and putting them in bottle cages on your bike. There are also different types of hydration packs, and some of them can carry two bladders (see photo).
Know Your Dog
Know your dog before you go! Be sure that your dog will listen to your commands and that she will stay with you. She must be up-to-date on her shots, and must have a sturdy collar with ID tags and rabies tag. Ideally, dogs should be micro-chipped so they can be identified and reunited with you should they get lost or lose their collar or tags. Always carry a leash with you; it can be easily stowed in a hydration pack.
Be a Pack Leader
The first time you go, begin training your dog to run behind you. In crowded, more urban settings, your dog could cause another biker to crash if she is running ahead on the trail. Take it slow the first time, too, stopping often to rest and offer water. Slowly introduce the dog to longer and longer rides. As a general guideline, you should restrict your trips with your dog to the quantity of water you can carry.
After the ride, you both will reap the rewards of increased endorphins, being in great physical shape, and the joy of companionship and camaraderie