Can I Run With a Cavapoo? Are Cavapoos a Good Running Partner?

Cavapoos are an adorable cross between the beautiful Cavalier King Charles Spaniels and Standard Poodles. These dogs are wonderful companions full of energy and lots of love to give. But how will these fluffy friends fare when it’s time for a light jog or endurance run?

If you are a runner or want to be, you may be wondering if your little Cavapoo would make a good running buddy. This article will answer all of your Cavapoo running-related questions so you can have an effective workout with your best friend. 

Running with Cavapoos 

You can run with your Cavapoo and get some exercise and fresh air together! 

Cavapoos can be high energy and benefit from at least 20 minutes of exercise every day, including running. 

Poodles are some of the fastest runners in the canine world, topping out around 30 miles an hour. So Cavapoos can run, on average, between 10 and 20 miles per hour, so you better be ready to keep up with them! 

Some dogs with small snouts can have trouble catching their breath, but Cavapoos have medium snouts so they can breathe regularly. Other breeds have very short legs, and they can’t run very fast or for very long. Even though Cavapoos are small, their legs are proportional to their body, allowing them to run well. 

Because of their size, you may not want to take them on runs for as long as an hour. Their endurance is moderate, but you can work your way up to a certain distance with training. 

Training Cavapoos to Run

Running with a human isn’t hardwired into the canine brain, so here are some tips for training your dog to run!

Take Extra Long Walks

Before trying to run with your dog, you should take them on some super long strolls to see how they handle it. If they are flopping on the ground and not having, they probably won’t do much better on a full-blown run with you. 

Go Easy

If your dog doesn’t seem to be doing well running, it is best you stop and let them rest, get some water, and wind down. Not all dogs have the endurance for a strenuous activity that humans do or other dogs. Pay attention to their breathing and mannerisms to ensure they are a-okay.

Start Small

Don’t overdo it when you first run with your dog. Even dogs who love to run should take it slow because this is a new experience. 

Dogs can injure themselves when running on a leash, or they could injure you. Try a five or ten-minute run to start off and slowly increase the time until you are confident that your dog is comfortable and enjoying the activity. 

Alternate Walks and Runs

Even if you and your dog love running together, you should still give them regular old walks too. Running is fun and tires them out quicker than a leisurely walk. 

However, walking is an important activity for dogs because it allows them to smell their surroundings, smell other dogs, and is mentally stimulating and fun for them. So even if they love a good job, don’t deprive them of their walks!

Keep It Familiar

If one of the issues is keeping your dog’s focus, it can help to run in familiar places. Run around your neighborhood where you go on walks or run around your block. You won’t always have to do this, but there are fewer strange and new smells to distract your dog from the activity. 

Tips for Running With Your Cavapoo

Here are some tips for every dog owner that likes to run with their furry friends! Keep these in mind when it’s time to go for a jog.

Carry Water

If you don’t carry water with you when you run, it’s time to start. While you can understand when the run is almost over, and you can have cold water soon, your dog won’t have the same thought process. 

It’ll be awful if they feel parched and forced to run with you. Unless you run in a park with loads of public drinking fountains, make sure you bring water. 

Get the Gear

There is plenty of dog and owner running gear to make this activity as comfortable and enjoyable as possible. 

I’m not saying every product geared towards dogs and their human runners is necessary, but most of them are helpful. Waist leashes, back harnesses, stretchy leads, and so much more can help. 

Carry Potty Bags

I know you’re a responsible dog owner and would never leave your puppy’s business behind, but this is a friendly reminder! 

Sometimes when we’re focused on teaching a dog a new task or command, we can forget those little things. But if you find yourself without a bag when you need one, it adds unnecessary frustration. 

Final Thoughts

If you still aren’t sure if your dog will enjoy running with you, it’s always a good idea to ask your vet what they think. They’ll be able to determine if your pup is physically fit enough for that kind of exercise. 

But in general, you can expect your Cavapoo to blossom into a running buddy with a little bit of patience and training.