How to Ride a Bike With a Dog

Human’s best friend. The beast. Your favorite little nugget. Everyone loves their dog, and most people want to bring their cuddly canine everywhere they go, including the biking trails. However, not every trail allows pets, and not all lightweight bikes for adults are suited for your cuddly companion. You still have options, though. Most dogs would love the chance to run or ride with their two-legged buddies, but there are a few things to keep in mind for everyone’s safety and health.

1. Dog Breed

Before you outfit men or womens bikes for the four-legged, you must consider their breed and how a bike ride will affect them. Many smaller breeds cannot handle intense workouts, so running alongside your bike is out of the question. Other larger breeds are happier to lounge about all day. Understanding the needs of your furball friend is the primary concern before subjecting them to a ride they literally may not be built for. However, there are alternative bike setups for nearly every breed.

2. Bike Setup

Setting up your bicycle for your dog is crucial to their comfort and yours. For smaller pups, you can use bike baskets that attach to the front of your bike, allowing you to keep a close eye on your buddy. Larger breeds that don’t like to run may prefer a trailer that you can buy in several sizes, whichever is best for your pooch. If your dog runs alongside your bike, you can purchase devices that keep the animal a safe distance away from your tires and pedals.

3. Conditioning

Regardless of the passenger or leash option you choose, every dog requires training before your first biking excursion. If you use a trailer or a basket, you need to get your dog acquainted with the piece. For smaller dogs, carry them around in the basket, so they know it is safe. If you will use a trailer, then set it up for your dog to get a feel for it when it is stationary. Building confidence is a slow progression, but patient conditioning will lead to comfort and excitement when cycling.

4. Biking Benefits

For high-energy dogs, biking has the same benefits it does for people; it is a way to burn of excess energy quickly and efficiently. For lazy dogs or smaller breeds, bike riding in baskets or trailers is a way to experience more of the world and further their bond with their human. For people, cycling with their pooch is enjoyable and a time to show affection for a treasured loved one.

5. Safety

You must remember that running alongside a bike or riding while attached to one is unnatural for your dog. While they may learn to love it, you need to keep them safe by making sure they are ready for the cycling experience. Remember, you didn’t learn to love riding overnight, and neither will your pooch.

Everyone loves their four-legged best friend, and it is no wonder you want to spend every second with them. However, before you take your pup on a bike ride, stop by your local bike shop to purchase any necessary accessories.