Dogs and bikes: how to cycle with your dog
Everything you need to know to ride a bike safely with your dog
CAN I RIDE A BIKE WITH MY DOG?
Approximate reading time: 7 minutes
We know you love spending time with your pet and, if it were up to you, you'd take them everywhere with you. If you like cycling, you've probably wondered whether it's safe and advisable to do it with your dog. And yes, the truth is that bike rides are very beneficial for these animals, whether they enjoy running alongside you, or observing their surroundings from their basket or trailer. Either way, this activity is a great way to exercise your pet intensely or stimulate them with something different, but above all, it's a super fun way to spend time together.
Table of contents
1- Is it safe to cycle with my dog?
2 - Cycling with your dog: responsibility and caution
Is it safe to cycle with my dog?
If you have not yet decided to go out with your bike and your dog because you are afraid that it is dangerous, it is important to know that, although there is always a small risk, this activity is very safe as long as you approach it with caution and adapt it to the character and conditions of your pet. Athletic, energetic, extroverted, medium to large sized dogs are most likely to enjoy running alongside the bike, whereas if your dog is smaller or less physically fit, it is best to transport them in a pannier or trailer.
On the other hand, it is not a good idea to take dogs under one and a half years old for a bike ride, as at this age their skeleton and muscle mass is not yet 100% developed and could be harmful. Senior dogs or very quiet and calm dogs, such as St. Bernards, may be stressed by this activity, which is also not recommended for very restless dogs. If your pet is overly distracted by stimuli and tends to chase after things, it is not a good idea to walk them on a bike, as it could be dangerous if they run into the wheels or try to run away. In this case, you could try a covered basket to keep your furry friend safe.
If you want to cycle with your beloved pet, bear in mind these tips and recommendations so that you don't put him or her, your own safety or that of other pedestrians and cars on the road at risk.
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Prepare for the outing
When it comes to going out cycling with your dog, don't be impulsive. We recommend that, first of all, you check if this activity is allowed in your city and what are the safety regulations or traffic laws that regulate it. It is also very important that you do a thorough check of the condition of your bike, as it is not the same to ride alone as it is to ride with the addition of a leash holding a dog. Check that the frame, wheels, headlights and all the components of the bike are in good condition before setting off on a ride with your pet.
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Get your dog used to cycling
If this is the first time you have ridden a bike with your dog, it is essential that you let them get used to it first. As with any other activity involving your furry friend, the progression should be slow, so we recommend you start by simply letting them observe and sniff the bike. Afterwards, you can go down to the street to drag the bike (without riding it) with your dog by your side, so that they can get used to the presence of the object and the rhythm of walking alongside it. Once this situation is fully tolerated (remember to reward good behaviour), you can ride the bike with your dog, but be sure to start with short routes and observe your pet's behaviour at all times during these first few rides.
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Take into account environmental and ground conditions
You may not mind getting wet or hot when you're out on your bike, but your dog is much more sensitive to inclement weather. The best days to ride are when the sun is shining but not too brightly. The temperature should be pleasant, and it is not advisable to cycle with your pet if it is going to rain, as you could slip and it would be very uncomfortable for your pet. It is also a good idea to plan for the type of ground your dog will be riding on. If it is asphalt and it is very hot, it could be too hot. Although this should also be considered for daily walks, a short hike is not the same as a bike ride, where your dog may spend more time in contact with the ground. Also avoid muddy surfaces or surfaces with lots of stones, which could injure your pet.
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Take everything you need
During your bike ride with your pet, don't forget to take a backpack with everything you need for your excursion. A leash in case you make a stop, water and a drinking bowl for your dog to hydrate after this intense exercise, a reward for good behaviour... Be prepared and don't forget anything important so that everything goes smoothly. Never better!
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Use a hands-free leash and harness
If your dog is going to run with you, we recommend the use of a special hands-free leash for bicycles. In this system, the leash is attached to the bike frame, leaving your hands available to control the handlebars, which is much safer for you and your pet. In addition, the hands-free leashes better control the distance between the dog and the bike, so that they do not get between the wheels and can destabilise you while riding or hurt themself. We do not recommend the use of a collar for this activity: it is much better to use a harness, which provides better support and protects your dog from tugs that could hurt their neck.
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Practice in a safe place
Even if you're an experienced cyclist, riding alone is not the same as riding with your pet, so it's a good idea to do a short test ride in a safe space, such as a quiet car park, your garden or a quiet street. Once you've got used to the feeling of being on a leash, you're ready to go for walks in other places, but try to make sure they're not too crowded and with as few distractions as possible, especially for the first few rides or if your dog is a bit more restless. If your dog is too nervous, it is best to take them in a basket (if they is small) or pushchair.
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Keep an appropriate pace
Riding a bike with your dog is not the same as riding alone, so if you want to go fast or go bold, leave your furry friend at home. When cycling with your pet at your side, take great care to maintain an appropriate speed. It is better to go slowly than to have your dog practically dragged along. In this regard, it is very important that you know your pet well, both the characteristics of their breed and its particular traits. Dogs with a strong physical condition, such as Labradors or Boxers, will generally have no problem maintaining a good pace. The Australian Cobberdog, for example, is an athletic breed of dog that with proper training could enjoy these bike rides. But if your dog is less energetic or, because of their size, have shorter legs, it is better to ride more slowly or carry them in a basket.
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Baskets and trailers for cycling with dogs
Because of their temperament or size, some dogs are not suitable to run alongside you on your bike, but that doesn't mean they can't accompany you on your rides on two wheels. Today, there are many different types of baskets, trolleys and trailers that attach to your bike to transport your pets. The baskets generally hold about 12 kg in weight, so they are perfect for small dogs. There are front, side or rear baskets, depending on the area of the bike to which they are attached, although the most recommended are the first ones, as they allow you to better control the animal. Some designs are open and others are closed for greater safety in case restless dogs try to jump off the bike. The most important thing is that they are of good quality and padded for comfort.
On the other hand, trailers or trolleys are suitable for larger dogs, up to 30 kg, in case they are older or have a calmer disposition and don't enjoy running alongside you. Some small, short-legged dogs, such as the Yorkshire or Chihuahua, may also be more comfortable in these trailers than walking alongside the bike, as they might get too tired. Another option is to carry your pet in a special doggy backpack while cycling.
Cycling with your dog: responsibility and prudence
The most important thing when enjoying a pleasant bike ride with your pet is to keep safety in mind at all times. Bear in mind that you are not travelling alone and that your pet's safety and well-being depend on you. Don't take risks: avoid crowded places, steep terrain, areas with many distractions or traffic... Be prudent for your safety and that of your big friend. But above all, don't forget to enjoy this beautiful moment. Your dog will have a great time sharing a different activity with you. Remember that it is very important for your pet's mental health that they enjoy an enriching lifestyle, with new and interesting stimuli.
Cycling with your dog is a great way to burn off energy, especially if they are a bit nervous, and to motivate and entertain them. However, don't forget that running alongside you on the bike is not a substitute for walks with your dog, as they need to sniff the environment and explore the world around them in a deeper way. Happy cycling!