Science of Dog Running

The Science of Dog Running

1. Breed Endurance Capabilities

• Endurance Runners: Border Collies, Vizslas, Huskies, and Pointer breeds have high aerobic capacity and can run 5–10+ km when properly conditioned.

• Sprinters: Greyhounds and Whippets excel in short bursts of speed rather than sustained distance.

• Non-Runners: Brachycephalic breeds (Pugs, French Bulldogs) have restricted airways and should avoid distance running.
  
  

2. Temperature & Heat Safety

• Dogs cool themselves primarily through panting. On warm days above 20°C, high humidity drastically lowers cooling efficiency. We will stick to shaded routes like Cornwall Park, keep distances short, have fresh water and maybe even treats!
  
  

3. Joint & Paw Care

• Growth Plates: Puppies under 12–18 months should avoid repetitive distance running until their growth plates close.

• Surfaces: We mix hard asphalt with grass or gravel (like Waiatarua Reserve) to lower impact on joints and condition paw pads over time.