Taking Your Dog Mountain Biking

Do you enjoy mountain biking? Have you always wanted to take your dog with you, but aren’t quite sure how to do it? Here are a few tips and guidelines to serve you in your mountain biking endeavors!

First, you will want to consider the health of your dog. Similar to you, they need to build up physical strength and endurance. If they spend the majority of their time laying on the sofa in your house or apartment, the chances are your companion is not physically ready for mountain biking yet. A good way to get your dog into shape is to simply start by regularly taking your dog on walks around your neighborhood or a nearby city park. Next, you will want to find a bike trail nearby that allows dogs on the trail. This is a great way to work up your pup’s endurance, strength, and all-around physical fitness. And always remember to start slowly; just as you wouldn’t want to be forced to run for 10 miles after not working out recently, neither does your dog.

You will also want to make sure your dog understands to stay away from the front of the bike. This can easily be taught in a gentle, non-threatening way. Simply take your dog out, and bring your bike along. Start by walking with your dog and your bike, and if your dog gets in front of the front wheel, gently nudge Fido with the front wheel. Be careful to not run over your pup’s feet; just nudge your doggie in the ribcage or on the rump to give them the idea to stay out the way. Sometimes this will take a bit of time, but your dog will catch on, and you both will be safer because of it.

Another thing you need is equipment. Unless your dog is extremely well behaved, you may want to consider purchasing a Springer bike leash. It is a fixed length lead that fastens on to your bike as well as your dog. This gives the dog plenty of maneuverability, yet it also gives you the security you need. If you simply have your dog on a regular leash and hold it in your hand, it is easy for your dog to pull too hard on the leash, resulting in a loss of balance on your side, which could prove to be dangerous.

If you must go with a regular lead, go ahead and tie it directly underneath your bike seat; because it is the center of the bike, accidents are less likely to occur when the leash is placed in a sturdy, non-giving spot on your bike. You will also need to bring plenty of water for you and your dog. Dehydration and heat stroke are plausible issues that are best to avoid. Many pet supply stores will offer portable water bottles that usually have an attachment that can hold water so your dog is able easily drink from it. Be sure to keep an eye on your dog, because heat exhaustion is a serious problem if left unnoticed or unattended.

Mountain biking is a fun way to be outdoors and spend some time with your best friend getting exercise. Remember to be careful, and enjoy yourselves!

This article was provided by the authors at Pet Super Store - an online pet shop featuring dog beds.