Taking your dog for a bike ride? Follow these bicycle safety tips!

Taking a walk can be one of the most exciting parts of a dog’s day, but some puppies just need to feel the wind in their coat. A bike ride is a fun way to spend time outside with your dog, get some exercise, and satisfy your dog’s need for speed.

But it’s important to stay safe. In addition to following basic bike safety guidelines and obeying traffic rules, there are some additional safety precautions you should take when taking your dog on a bike ride.

Here’s what you need to do to stay safe while cycling with your dog.

Make sure your dog can handle this

If you want your dog to trot next to you while you ride, there are many things to do before you even set foot outside.

First, look at your dog. If they are prone to respiratory problems, which are especially common in short-nosed dogs, don’t even think about putting that much physical stress on them.

If your dog is small or has short legs, he will probably have to work too hard to keep up with you, so cycling isn’t the best way to exercise him.

And if your dog is overweight, it’s unsafe to start at such a physically demanding level. No matter what kind of dog you have, go to the vet for a checkup and see if your pup is healthy enough to run.

In addition, your dog must be a completely comfortable and well-behaved walker. Dogs that are easily distracted or run after other dogs or animals can pull hard and easily cause an accident. An untrained dog is absolutely not allowed to ride a bicycle.

Bring the right gear and choose the right path

Then make sure you have the right equipment. This includes:

• A non-slip belt or belt holder, preferably one that attaches to the seat or rear axle. Under no circumstances should you attach the strap to your handlebars, as that is an accident waiting to happen.
• A harness – a collar with a leash attached is very dangerous while cycling and can cause neck injuries
• Clear, reflective gear for your dog and reflectors for your bike to make yourself as visible as possible
• Lighting for your bike and possibly a light up collar for your dog
• A first aid kit for dogs
• Extra water bottles for you and your dog

After you’re all set, it’s time to check the terrain. Is your path grass or pavement?

If it’s pavement, check that the ground isn’t too hot or your pup’s paws could be badly burned.

If the path is unpaved, check for rocks, broken glass, or sharp objects on the ground. If you notice these security risks, choose a safer route.

Take it easy in the beginning

Now you can finally take your dog outside. But don’t start riding just yet. Walk your bike next to your dog to get him used to it.

Start practicing your commands such as ‘slow’, ‘stop’ or ‘run’. You should continue to use this as an opportunity to review skills and take a short warm-up walk, even if your pup has experience running next to your bike.

Your dog probably won’t be used to this vigorous exercise, so drive slowly as your pup gets used to it.

Stop if you see signs of dehydration or fatigue, including excessive panting, drooling, or difficulty moving. Keep an eye on your dog and watch out for distractions so you can respond if your dog pulls.

Take breaks, stop for water and stay at a pace your dog can handle. It’s not about getting anywhere; this is about exercise for your dog, and all your attention should be on the road, safety and your dog.

Driving with your dog in a basket, carrier or trailer

If your dog doesn’t need the exercise or can’t keep up with your bike, there are still ways you can take them for the ride. You need to make sure you choose the right option that works for you and your pup.

As with side-by-side riding, look at your dog first. Make sure they are well behaved and can enjoy the ride in peace. If they shift too much or try to escape, it can throw you off balance and cause
an accident.

Also consider the size of your dog. This will determine what kind of equipment you need. Baskets are usually mounted in front of the handlebars or on the bicycle rack, and they are for smaller dogs that don’t need a lot of space.

The same goes for many carriers that can be attached to a bicycle. Just make sure your dog is comfortable, and make sure you can compensate for the extra weight while riding and get used to the feel of it.

You may want to put something else that weighs about the same as your dog in the basket before taking him in just for practice.

For dogs that are too big for a basket or rack, get a trailer that pulls behind your bike. Check the carrying capacity before buying one and make sure your pup will fit.

Try a trailer ride and leave your dog at home so you can get used to it.

You, your bicycle and any trailers or carriers must be as visible as possible with lights and reflectors. Bring a first aid kit just in case and extra water. Make sure to stop regularly so your dog goes to the potty and takes water breaks.

And whether your dog walks beside you or you use a carrier or trailer, make sure you end the walk with lots of praise and rewards for a job well done.

Do you ever cycle with your dog? Does your dog walk next to you, or does he have a basket or trailer? Let us know in the comments below!

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