Tips for Going Cycling with Your Dog

More and more people start to cycle whether it's for commuting or a healthy hobby. This is, obviously, great for both people's health and the environment. However, it's important to know what to do if you want to cycle together with your dog. After all, you want to make sure that you're both safe in this situation and enjoy the cycling experience to the fullest.

Consider a dog trailer

If your dog is not used to following up as you cycle and you're aware of the fact that the canine's too old to be trained for something like that, using a dog trailer may suit the dog just fine. This could be something the dogs can warm up to more even if they weren't too familiar with a bicycle before.

A basket for small dogs

On the bike's steering wheel you can have a basket that can easily hold small dogs. In general, really small breeds can't really follow as you cycle. Trying to make them do so would be torture. But, if you want to take them with you on your cycling journey, place them in a steering wheel's basket in front of you. This isn't just any ordinary basket, though. Look into ones made specifically for small dogs and their cycling owners.

Be careful!

Obviously, one of the main tips for cycling with your dog is to be very careful and attentive, especially when you join the traffic. It's paramount that you obey the road signs. Moreover, follow the rules such as signaling for turns and wearing a helmet. Don't rush as your dog needs to catch up. Moreover, rushing can be problematic since you won't be able to take notice of your surroundings properly. Also, always do a thorough checkup of your bicycle and equipment, as well as pay attention to how your dog is feeling before taking both your furry friend and bike out.

The question of leash

While your dog should be on a leash if it's following you on a bike, don't think it's a good idea to have it on a leash so that the dog can run like there's no tomorrow. This can really tire the dog out or, it can get its adrenaline pumping so that the dog ends up pulling you on a bike instead. Both scenarios are terrible and should be avoided for both of your safety. If you want to have your dog on a leash as you ride a bike, ride in a pace that suits your dog's stride.

Protect your dog properly

Make sure to always be prepared when cycling. Just like you get tired so does your dog. That said, it's important to carry an additional water bottle and maybe even some food for your dog. If you plan to take it to the dog park, it's important for the dog to be safe, especially if it's a smaller breed. In that sense, Bravecto small dog chewables are a must as a safety measure against fleas and ticks. Moreover, don't ever consider carrying your dog in one hand as you cycle as this can be incredibly dangerous, especially if the dog starts wiggling.

Know the best locations

Sometimes you just need to take your pup somewhere with you. If this is a relatively quick ride then things will probably be fine. But, never take your dog for cycling on rough terrainand heat just because you feel like it. Not to mention that this isn't good for you either. In case you're craving some longer cycling and want to take your furry pal with you, opt for nature routes such as Clare Valley, The River Torren Linear Park track, Beach cruise, etc. These are all top-notch Adelaide locations but regardless of where you are, always aim for these kinds of nature-abundant places.

In the end, it's essential that you start out easy. Your dog has to slowly get used to this dynamic. This is especially true for their paws. Even though the dog's paws are tougher than human's, you can't expect your dog to instantly master running on pavement, or even grass if it's for hours. You may be turning the pedals but if your dog is pushing itself too hard, you really need to reconsider your cycling tactics.