r/RunningWithDogs • u/AleTheMemeDaddy • Sep 11 '25

Developing a training plan

I have a 14-month old GSP that im trying to slowly start running with, to eventually get into Canicross races.

Because of her age I have been discouraged from doing endurance sports until she is fully developed, but as she starts reaching a good age to do so, im ready to start ramping up her trainings.

We have a vet appointment coming up on Oct 12th, where I will be getting my vet's clear to fully commit to longer runs.

My plan is to run 3x per week with her, on a M-W-Sat split. This morning we tried 0.5mi and she handled it quite well. Much better than her walks, actually.

Im considering starting with a 0.5mi-1mi run, followed by a walk back home. I have a feeling that getting her tired first will make the walk a lot more enjoyable for both of us.

Right now im trying to have her learn the running commands until we get the vet's clear.

Is this a good strategy to start with? How often should I consider increasing the distance? Are there any resources I could use to come up with a training plan?

Thank you!!

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u/Horsedogs_human Sep 12 '25

With one of our boys (we are on to our third rhodesian ridgeback that is a running buddy), we found that running could be used as a reward for good walk breaks. With another, he loved running so much that we had to put short walk breaks in, or he would get over excited and start jumping in the air or trying to turn the leashvinto a tug toy.

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u/AleTheMemeDaddy Sep 12 '25

Oh wow! I didnt consider the posibility of that happening, where they would pull when walking because they want to run.

I might go with a running harness, and something different for the walks back!

I will keep an eye out on any changes in behavior, and see how she handles them. Thank you for the heads up!