How to Train Your Dog to Walk Beside Your Bike

Riding a bike is great exercise. Having your dog ride with you is more exercise than he normally gets walking or running with you. Teaching your dog to walk beside your bike will take a little bit of patience and dedication from you both, but once you two understand safety rules and precautions and can do this together, you can explore the world together, get great exercise, and spend great time bonding. Having your dog walking beside your bike with safety in mind first will put your dog in a position where he doesn't pull you over or become entangled in the bike. Teaching your dog to go on bike rides with you with him walking or even running beside your bike can be extremely rewarding for you both.

Just imagine how excited your dog will be when the words, “Do you want to go for a bike ride?” come out of your mouth! If you have the kind of dog is excited to get in a car, he will probably be just as excited to walk next to your bike.

Training your dog to walk beside your bike is imperative if you want both of you to be healthy and safe during this kind of exercise together. You need to get your dog used to the bike, how it moves, and how it sounds when it moves. Many bike riders with dogs invest in a specific bike leash which attaches to the bike instead of the rider holding on to the leash. This frees your hands, so you can better control the bike. Take some time training your dog how to walk beside your bike properly away from traffic and distractions, including other riders, until he's used to how it's done. Remember, a dog who is not properly trained to walk beside your bike can become entangled in the wheels or pedals of your bike, stopping you both and potentially causing injury. If your dog is distracted easily and will bolt from you, he can also pull your bicycle down. So be sure you have a dog who knows basic obedience commands and does well walking on a leash before you walk him next to your bike.

To do this training, you are going to need a bicycle that you are comfortable with, which is safe and well-maintained. You will also need a leash for your dog. Though not a requirement, a bike leash is suggested. Again this keeps your hands free to manage and control the bike by attaching your dog to the bicycle and not to you. You should also take some tasty treats with you to reward your dog for a job well done. Be sure you have an area to train your dog that is quiet and free of distractions and dangerous traffic.