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Bike riding with your dog
Bike riding with your dog

I have been riding a bike for exercise off and on for a few years. I want to take my dog with me, but am not sure how to ride and hold him on a leash. I've seen a couple of other people do this, but I am not comfortable with it. I actually saw one rider fall off his bike when his dog ran off the trail. Is there any type of leash that might be safe to use?

Using a regular leash to hold onto your dog while riding a bike isn't advisable because tension isn't constant, making it possible for your dog to pull you off-balance or run in front of you and cause you to crash. A regular leash can also get tangled in the spokes or pedals, again resulting in an accident that could injure you and the dog.

There are several leashes created specifically to allow cyclists to more safely attach dogs to their bikes while riding. One even includes a release to use if your dog runs into an obstacle such as a fire hydrant or tree while you're riding. All but one is recommended for use with a padded harness instead of a collar; a harness is more comfortable and won't put pressure on your dog's neck or throat.

Here are four attachments (ranging from $52 to $146) that will keep your dog connected to a bike at a safe distance while allowing you to keep your hands on the handlebars at all times.

• Springer: This is an odd-looking, crook-shaped "arm" that clamps to the bike stem and can be adjusted up or down depending on your bike's frame. The kit includes a sturdy rope that attaches to the device and your dog's harness. A spring on the arm absorbs the force of unexpected tugs, helping you keep your balance. If your dog should run into an obstacle, you can pull the safety pin to release him from the device. You can find more information and demonstration videos at springeramerica.com.

• WalkyDog Plus Bike Leash: The lightweight, springloaded straight metal rod clamps to the bike stem. This one doesn't include a safety release, but it can be easily removed from the bike to be used as a lead when you stop for a break. It's recommended for dogs weighing more than 40 pounds. For information, go to tinyurl.com/ng4mlyr.

• Bike Tow Leash: Unlike the other devices, the manufacturer suggests this one be used with a large, flat dog collar "for better communication and control" with your dog. The Bike Tow is a metal rod curved on one end to reduce a dog's ability to pull to the side and tip the bike. See biketowleash.com for more information.

• BikerDog: This device works on the same principle but bolts to the bike's rear triangle instead of the stem. It also attaches lower to the ground, which is supposed to reduce bike wobble produced by the dog. The BikerDog has a 10-inch metal rod that's attached to a 10-inch leash. The kit includes a harness. Go to bikerdog.com. for more information.

Whatever device you decide to use, you can't simply attach it to your dog and take off on a ride. Here are a few things you need to keep in mind, according to Whole Dog Journal:

• Your dog should already be trained to respond to basic obedience commands as well as walk on a traditional leash before attempting to take him along on a bike ride.

• If your dog isn't used to strenuous activity, don't begin with a long ride. Start with walking and build up your dog's stamina before taking him on short rides.

• A dog needs to weigh more than 25 pounds and be at least a year old (after his bones are fully developed) to take along on a bike ride.

• Consider the breed and whether it's physically suited to running. Short-legged, long-bodied dogs might suffer back strain while flat-nosed dogs such as bulldogs or pugs can overheat quickly.

• Overweight dogs and those with thick coats also can overheat quickly.

• Take water to keep your dog hydrated during a ride.

• After the ride, check your dog's paws, looking for cuts, scrapes and bruises.

• Only ride during the cooler parts of the day.

• Don't take your dog on hot pavement. If it's too hot for you to walk on barefoot, it's too hot for your dog. Also avoid pathways with sharp rocks or gravel.

The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals has a guide for pet owners who want to take their dogs hiking, biking or jogging at tinyurl.com/ox5sgx9.

Family on 06/18/2014

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