How to Run With My Rhodesian Ridgeback

The Rhodesian Ridgeback is a large breed dog that's part of the hound family. The breed originated in South Africa as a family companion animal and hunting dog. Its trademark feature is a strip of hair on its back that appears to go in the opposite direction of the rest of its fur. These dogs are companions during outdoor activities such as running, but there are several things to consider if you plan to run with your Rhodesian Ridgeback.

Things You'll Need

  • Running shoes
  • Leash
  • Dog treats
Show More

Instructions

    • 1

      Train your Rhodesian Ridgeback to stay close to you and properly respond to commands. If your Ridgeback isn't trained to follow commands, you'll have a difficult time keeping it in sync with you during your run. Take a training class if you're having difficulty training your Ridgeback on your own.

    • 2

      Jog with your Ridgeback slowly at first. Keep it on the leash if you feel more comfortable doing so. Start with short distances at first to see whether your Ridgeback will stay close to you during the activity. Also, be careful that your Ridgeback doesn't take you for the run, meaning it shouldn't pull you along while running. A properly trained Ridgeback will look to you, its owner, to set the pace. Give your Ridgeback dog treats during the beginning runs when it's doing what you ask.

    • 3

      Pick up the pace when you feel ready and can see that your Ridgeback will stay close to you. Remove the leash and let your Ridgeback run alongside you as long as you're very aware of any nearby traffic. Be prepared that, no matter how well trained your Ridgeback is, you may have to stop running at some point if it stops.

    • 4

      Experiment with activities such as agility training if your dog seems responsive to it. Agility exercises are meant to engage the handler and the Ridgeback. It will be able to run at full speed while performing jumps, walking on seesaws and other obstacle course. Ridgebacks are agile because they're strong, have endurance and have the intelligence to understand what is being asked of them.