How to Mountain Bike With Your Dog
A short mountain bike ride is a great way to give both you and your pooch some exercise.
- Difficulty:
- Moderately Easy
Instructions
Things You'll Need
- Dog Leashes
- Bike Helmets
- Bike Pumps
- Bike Tools
- Bike Water Bottle/cage
- Biking Gloves
- Mountain Bike Shoes
- Mountain Bikes
-
-
1
Check to see that the trail you want to bike allows dogs.
-
2
Ride short distances with your dog. When starting out, ride 3 or 4 miles to acclimate your dog to running with a bike.
-
3
Work up slowly to riding longer distances. Start short, then progress until you're riding 8 or 9 miles at a time.
-
4
Slow your pace while riding with your dog, especially on the downhills.
-
5
Bring some extra water and teach your pooch to drink from your hand or straight from the water bottle.
-
6
Develop a whistle or shout to use when your dog gets too close to your front tire. A quick "yeow" will get your dog on the side of the trail and out of harm's way.
-
1
Tips & Warnings
Long bike rides (over 10 miles) are physically demanding on dogs. Check with your veterinarian if you have any questions about a dog's health.
Mountain biking is a physically demanding sport that could result in serious injury. We recommend that you seek the proper training and equipment before undertaking this activity.
Related Searches
Comments
-
TheDogOutdoors
Apr 19, 2009
It is a good idea to use a special dog bike leash such as the WalkyDog in combination with a padded dog harness. The WalkyDog lets you keep both hands on the handlebars where they belong and it has an internal shock absorbing system for to keep you stable when the dog pulls. You can get one at The Dog Outdoors. -
TheDogOutdoors
Apr 19, 2009
It is a good idea to use a special dog bike leash such as the WalkyDog in combination with a padded dog harness. The WalkyDog lets you keep both hands on the handlebars where they belong and it has an internal shock absorbing system for to keep you stable when the dog pulls. You can get one at The Dog Outdoors.
-
Aug 08, 2006
It is especially important to keep your dog under control if you live in populated areas. First, teach your dog to heel (preferably on the side of you that will be away from traffic). After the pooch can heel well enough, it is an easy transition from heeling while walking, to heeling with the bike.
-
Nov 22, 2005
Use a retractable leash in the beginning. That way, once you are accustomed to using the lock on the leash and your brake, it is easier to lift it over your head if your pooch changes sides on you.
