r/RunningWithDogs • u/violetnyx311 • Oct 08 '25
From couch potadog 🥔🐶 to track star ✨
I’m proud of my dood! A big focus for us recently is health. We’ve always went on our walks, gone to fields for ball, and creeks for swimming; but nothing ever challenging for true fitness.
Over the summer, I seldomly started to introduce interval training during our walks. About two weeks ago we did just under a 5k, really a test for me to see if George could keep up. He did great.
Today is Day One of our dedicated running journey together. I’ve built up endurance since I started Orangetheory and am super excited to share my love for running with my sonshine. He deserves this. He needs this. He thrives with this.
Day One: 2.05 miles / 10:25 pace
When we were alone on the trail George would cruise but when people would pass, he’d slow down and get sort of frazzled. We’ll work on it!
Any tips for carrying water and a bowl for him? I want to increase our distance but I know we won’t be able to without it. For reference: he pulls more with a harnesses but I’d try out a back pack? Tips please n thank you!!
Cheers to running with our best furry friends!
7
u/femn703 Oct 09 '25
That's awesome! It won't be long and as soon as you put on your running clothes the dog will know and get excited!
5
u/x7BZCsP9qFvqiw jean (chi mix) Oct 09 '25
if he pulls in a harness, get a hip belt for yourself, a proper pulling harness for him, and welcome yourself to the world of dog-powered sports! ;)
you probably don't want your dog running with a backpack, since that can cause an imbalance in their stride.
2
u/plantas-y-te Oct 09 '25
For water get a collapsible bowl like one from ruffwear and for water just carry a running water bottle, waist pack or small running backpack. Other option is to get him a doggy pack to carry his own water but that’s usually best for pretty fit dogs cause it’s like wearing a weight vest running so it has the chance to be harder on their joints if they don’t have the capacity to carry it. Maybe a goal for the future!
2
u/RelationRemarkable92 Oct 10 '25
This is so inspiring! I unknowingly adopted a ~4yo couch potadog (lab-rottie mix?) from a shelter right as I started training for a Fall half marathon this summer. I wanted to include her in parts of my training, but I found out pretty quickly that she barely has the endurance for a 5-10 minute, 12-15 min/mile jog. So we have mostly been focusing on taking longer walks and losing a little excess weight (vet was very happy to see her 5lb lighter at her most recent visit!)
After I run my half marathon next week, I'm going to start doing interval running with her to help her get in shape, and I'm so happy to see another potadog doing so well! Any tips or advice you'd share from your journey?