News / running dog leash

  • Ruff Life Gear Breed Spotlight: Chihuahua

    If you're a fan of small dogs, you probably already know a little about the Chihuahua. From Legally Blondes’ Bruiser Woods, to the adorable Taco Bell mascot, the little dogs with the big personality are everywhere. But are they right for your family? Like all small dogs, Chihuahuas have challenges. But with the right environment, they can make fantastic companions for you and your family.

     

    Since International Chihuahua Appreciation Day was this month, let’s take a closer look at the these charming little devils!

     

    Breed Basics

     

    Chihuahuas are toy breeds, and that means small. They are 6-9 inches tall. At full-grown, they weigh between 2-6 pounds. This does mean, especially when they are young, they're a little needy when compared to other dogs. Children, especially younger children being introduced to a Chihuahua should be supervised. Don’t get it twisted though, they are great family pets! Whether you are an active family of four, with a huge yard, or a single person in an apartment, Chihuahuas are fiesty, energetic and loyal companions. They're very adaptable, and can make themselves at home wherever their people are.

     

    Puppy Training

     

     

    Because of their size, Chihuahua puppies can be very delicate. Though they are highly intelligent and eager to please, this can make house training difficult. Many Chihuahua owners decide to puppy pad or litter box train their Chihuahua. It is better for the dog to be taught go outside.

     

    Chihuahuas have been bred to be companion dogs. They are loyal and smart and need to be kept busy. This makes trick training very easy. They should be taught with clicker training instead of treat training. Chihuahua stomachs are so small, they can be very easily overfed, and too many treats can really upset their diet and health quickly. For this reason, they are prone to obesity and diabetes.

     

    Chihuahuas are very protective. They are too small to be a real threat to intruders, but they do make great alarm systems. They're great for a variety of people at different ages and stages of their lives, including families with children or single seniors looking for companions, since they don't take up much space and can get most of their exercise indoors when they need to. They don't necessarily get along well with other animals because they are so devoted to their humans. If your Chihuahua is your only dog, or you have other chihuahuas at home this may be the right dog for you. Otherwise you may find your Chihuahua develops some aggressive tendencies.

     

    Health Problems

     

    Every dog breed has its share of typical health problems. Like many small dog breeds, chihuahuas are susceptible to hypoglycemia urinary tract infections, and joint problems. Chihuahuas are also susceptible to heart murmurs and other heart conditions. As they age you might find your Chihuahua losing sight due to cataracts or chronic eye infections. Taking good care of your chihuahuas eyes are essential since they protrude from the head, leaving them more susceptible to injury and infection. However, like many toy breeds, Chihuahuas have an impressive lifespan. Typically, a Chihuahua can live 14 to 19 years.

     

    Chihuahuas are very small dogs, with very big personalities! They are fiercely loyal, and often require the same devotion from their owners. But if you have the time and attention to spare, a feisty, fun-loving Chihuahua can add years of memories for you and your family.

     

  • Our Picks for Best Dog Boots for Outdoor Adventures

     

    Outdoor dog boots are an important accessory for any pooch on an adventure. Dog boots help to protect the paws of our dogs from debris and dirt that might get stuck between their paw pads and either injure them or cause severe discomfort. Boots are essential to preventing cracks and calluses on our dogs' paws and for keeping their feet clean. When we go out camping, running, or hiking, we make sure that we are prepared with the correct gear and footwear. Our dogs deserve that same foot care that we give ourselves when we go outdoors.

     

    If you're thinking about buying outdoor dog boots for your next adventure, you're in luck! Here are our top 8 boot picks for serious nature lovers!

     

    Bark Brite All Weather Reflective Dog Boots

    Bark Brite All Weather boots are a great value if you want a durable dog boot. They are neoprene based, meaning they not only stretch, but they are waterproof. The durable soles of the boots help protect your dog against sharp objects, extreme cold or extreme heat. They also give the added benefit of having reflective straps, so, should you be hiking or running in the dark, your dog is able to have on reflective gear, too!

     

    Ruffwear Grip Trex

    Ruffwear's Grip Trex are the high-end outdoor dog boots for any dog that will be joining you on hiking, biking, running, or camping trips! The outside sole is constructed like a human hiking boot, allowing your dog to have exceptional traction on varied and harsh terrain. The exterior is constructed from breathable mesh, which keeps your pooches paws cool while they exercise. The straps have a two way securing system, which keeps them attached securely to your dog's feet.

     

    Top Paw Reflective Booties

    If you're trying to start your dog on boots, or looking for a cheap alternative to hold you over for a bit, Top Paw Reflective Booties is the way to go. These outdoor dog boots have great traction due to their bottoms, which are made from a rubberized thermoplastic. The straps are reflective on these, as well, for added visibility. While they are cheaper than the other boots of the list, they are a good starting point for people who haven't tried boots on their dog before or who want to see them in person before buying.

     

    My Busy Dog Winter Boots

    My Busy Dog Winter Boots are meant for cold weather, but the non-slip traction based sole also makes them work extremely well for outdoor activities. They're completely waterproof and come in eight different sizes. Add that they are endorsed by the AKC and you have a quality pair of outdoor boots for your friend!

     

    Wuxian Waterproof Outdoor Dog Boots

    These boots are sized by breed, so that you can easily fit your dog. They are water resistant with durable, printed soles that increase your dog's grip. The material is breathable to allow for indoor or outdoor wear and they are lightweight so that you can ensure your dog's comfort on your next hiking or camping trip.

     

    Muttluks Fleece Lined Dog Boots

    If you intend on doing any outdoor winter adventuring, this product is perfect for your pup! These dog boots have a fleece lining that keeps the paws warm. The treated leather soles protect your dog from snow and ice while also providing flexibility.

      

    DOG Australia

    These boots will match your Uggs at home. These boots are constructed from a flexible vinyl with a printed rubberized sole, which increases grip on harsher surfaces. The inside is lined with velvet for added warmth and breathability. Add in that they are extremely stylish and cute and you have yourself a fashion-forward choice for your next trip!

     

    Kurgo Step and Strobe Outdoor Dog Boots

    Like most of the other boots on this list, these boots offer intense grip for the rugged surface you will encounter outdoors. They are breathable and are purposely built to be long-lasting. These boots are unique, however, in that they feature 360 degree LEDs built into the shoe for extreme visibility of your dog! This is especially important for nighttime camping when your friend could run off. The increased safety of these boots makes them an obvious choice for the list.

     

    When you're preparing for your outdoor adventure, your dog needs to be prepared, too! Before heading out of that family camping trip, make sure that your canine companion has the proper footwear for your voyage! Your pets' paws will thank you!

  • Must-Have Running Dog Leashes for a Healthier New Year

    Guess what? Your dog has made some New Year’s resolutions you may not know about! Deep down inside you know what your dog wants. To get out more, travel, and exercise with you in the great outdoors, of course! As a pet owner, you can help them to fulfill their goals for 2019.
  • How To Start Running Like A Pro

    So, you want to know how to start running? That's great! Getting healthy this upcoming year will be apart of many people’s New Year’s resolutions. Choosing the right exercises and following through with a routine is vital to success. Running is a fantastic way of reaching your goals. In our opinion, running with your dog is even better!

     

    We're guessing the issue here though, is that you're not really sure how to start running alone much less with your dog. That's ok though, stick with us and we'll show you the ropes!

    How to Start Running By Yourself

    If you're like us, your first thought, "How do I run?", seems like a silly question. Don’t worry, it really is a legitimate question. Doing it incorrectly can actually damage your body. Before you even consider making this something you do often, keep a few things in mind. First, that you're putting a considerable amount of pressure (your entire body's weight, actually) on the muscles, tendons, and joints in your legs. Your knees, ankles, feet, and toes are also taking a beating. Secondly, if you're overweight or misinformed about running, you have to make some changes.

    Change to a healthier diet and do some low-impact exercises like hiking with your dog, swimming or walking. Throw in some strength training too. Once you've done all of that, (a few weeks at least) you can move to the next step of running. This would be learning warm-up exercises. Warming up means more than just 10 minutes of static stretching. Instead, you'll want to do a dynamic warm-up, which basically means you move as you stretch.

     

    You’re Almost Ready!

    Once you've done that, now you can finally, finally run, right?! Almost, but first, you need the proper technique. Cushioned running shoes aren't going to help with this, you have to learn it. Make sure that your heel is what's stomping the ground and keep your strides short with legs bent and underneath you instead of fully extended.


    It's going to feel weird at first and your calves will hate you! At this point, however, you'll finally be running properly.


    How to Start Running With Your Dog


    Alright. We got all of that out of the way, so now it's time for Fido to join in. You know how to start running, but running with your dog is another story! Well, just like how you would have to get in running shape, so would your furry friend. So, again... walking, hiking, and all that good jazz will help prep them for the strenuous activity of running.

     

    Dog Running Gear


    Once your pooch is well adjusted to that, make sure you've got the proper running gear. You’ll need to invest in a padded dog collar and a running dog leash. A running dog leash is invaluable for many reasons and we offer two must-have types. The first is a coiled dog leash. The coiled design allows you to run safely without getting caught in the leash. Made with a padded handle it offers a comfort grip along with tangle-free running. Our ​coil leash​ is a durable and waterproof running leash that features a glow in the dark tag and double swivel to prevent coil knotting.

     

    The second type of dog leash for running is our multi-function running belt. This running dog leash is designed specifically for running. They are shorter than regular leashes and are made to allow safe, hands-free running for dog owners. These dog running belts​ can be worn around the waist, shoulder, or hand. Additionally, it features a buckle that allows you to alter the length of the leash.


    Other things you have to consider:

    • If you have a puppy wait 6 months (longer for bigger breeds) before running. At this point, even with a proper running dog leash, the pressure of regular running can hurt their growing bones.

    •Let them potty before the run, consider it a warm-up walk.

    •Dogs like sniffing things, let them do this before the run.

    • Turn running with your dog into a game. Dogs enjoy doing things at intervals, so give your routine some flex room.

    Be sure to keep your dog on the side away from traffic and make sure that your running dog leash is relatively short. That way, they don’t go too far ahead of you or zig-zag into traffic.

    We know that seemed like a lot but you can do this! You now know how to train your body and how to start running. Also, you know that a proper running dog leash is essential for running with your dog. And, running with your dog will help you both get some exercise and lead healthier lives! That being said, why are you still here? Go on, get out there and run. You know what to do now and we're sure Fido will thank you for it!

     

  • Top 5 Dog Breeds That Need to Run

    A running dog leashis essential for dogs that thrive on running daily. While all dogs benefit from running and exercise, some breeds require more than others. Active dog breeds need regular exercise to stay happy and healthy. There is also the added benefit of keeping you fit as well!

    List of Running Dog Breeds

    All dogs need to run, but there are five active dog breeds that need to run more than others.

    • Greyhound
    • Whippet
    • Dalmatian
    • German Pointer
    • Vizsla

     

    About The Breeds

    All of these breeds thrive on running. Greyhounds are the fastest breed of dog and naturally want to be run. Whippets are a breed of speed runners and can run as fast as 35 mph! Dalmatians are not only known for being natural runners, but for also being distance runners. They have the natural endurance that allows them to run for long distances easily.

    Pointers are known for being filled with energy. They also have a weather and water-resistant coat that makes them love the outdoors, regardless of weather. Vizslas are natural bird hunting dogs and the breed is known to spend days outside chasing birds. This breed requires time spent running each day.

    *We also want to point out that when these dogs run, they run! Not having the proper gear can be dangerous to you or your dog. Use a running beltand other running essentials for best practice.

     

    Owning an Active Dog Breed

    These five breeds of dog need to run to not only stay fit but to also stay sane. Dog breeds that don’t get the necessary time to expel energy will become stir crazy. That boredom may lead to destructiveness or other behavioral issues. Bottom line is, they must get their energy out on a daily basis.

    Running provides both a physical and mental release for these breeds. They can run in open areas or are excellent choices for avid runners. We guarantee, they would love nothing more than to run alongside their favorite humancounterpart!

     

    Maintaining an Active Dog

     Having a dog walking serviceon hand can help maintain your pets daily run. This way, when work or personal life gets in the way, your dog won’t have to suffer. A dog walker can provide the exercise your dog needs and you a guilt-free option.

     

    Dog Leash for Running

    Having a dog leash for running will be more comfortable for both you and your dog. A running dog leash is designed specifically for running. They are shorter than regular leashes and are multi-functional. They are made to allow safe, hands-free running for dog owners. These dog running beltscan be worn around the waist, shoulder, or hand.

     

    Other Running Essentials

    Another fantastic tool to have is a collapsible water bowlfor your dog. This way you can easily share water from your water bottle with your pooch. When they are done, shake it out, and throw it in your fanny pack!

    A coil dog leash is also a pawesome option for a running dog leash. The coiled design allows you to run safely without getting caught in the leash. Made with a padded handle it offers a comfort grip along with tangle-free running. Our coil leashis a durable and waterproof running leash that features a glow in the dark tag and double swivel to prevent coil knotting.

    It’s important to find out the activity level of different breeds. This will ensure you choose the dog breed that is right for you and your family. Active dog breeds rely on daily exercise to maintain a healthy and active lifestyle. Our running leash solutions can help you and your dog to enjoy all the benefits running has to offer...hassle-free!

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