How To Bike With Your Dog
Wondering if biking with your dog could finally wear them out? If your high-energy pup is bouncing off the walls, here’s what you need to know before hitting the trail together.
Some dogs need a little more than a walk around the block.
If you’ve got a high-energy dog, you know what I mean. Puzzle toys, scent games, trick training — they help, but sometimes they’re just not enough. If your Border Collie is only walking twenty minutes a day, you’re not going to outsmart that energy. You’re going to get pacing, paw licking, and a destroyed couch.
So what do you do?
Well, if you’re already an avid cyclist — or just like the idea of letting your dog burn zoomies at 12mph — biking together can be an amazing option. Here’s how to do it safely.
Step 0: Safety Check
Before you even think about clipping your dog to a moving vehicle, make sure they’re ready. Otherwise, you’re signing up to get dragged into a mailbox.
Your dog should:
- Be old enough to run comfortably
- Be generally calm around other dogs, people, strollers, bikes, etc.
- Have at least basic obedience skills (recall, sit-stay, leash manners)
If your dog flips out at squirrels or scooters on walks, skip the bike until he’s ready. Try treadmill training instead — it’s safer and gives you more control.
Step 1 – Get The Gear
Now, let’s talk gear. You don’t need a ton, but the right tools make a huge difference.
- A bike — cargo and e-bikes are fun, but any solid frame works.
- A harness — front-clip or Y-shaped harnesses are best for control and comfort.
- A side-arm attachment — this helps keep your dog at a safe distance from the bike.
- A double-clipped leash — this secures both your harness and the side-arm.
- A pair of dog boots — if your dog is running on asphalt, it helps protect their paws.
- Your dog’s favorite snack — for rewards and distractions, just in case.
High quality gear makes a big difference here – there are countless stories about cheap gear failing and either hurting you or your dog. If you’re really serious about running with your pup, investing in the right equipment keeps everyone safe and happy.
If your dog has never worn a harness or shoes, take a few days to introduce them slowly. Make it fun. Two fingers of space between the harness and belly is a good fit rule. For boots, dog shoes aren’t standardized, so consult the manufacturer’s sizing requirements for the right size. Always remember, measure first — don’t eyeball it.
Step 2: Introduce The Bike
Before you ride, make sure your dog doesn’t think the bike is scary.
Introduce the Bike First
- Park the bike somewhere stable. Lock it and don’t move it.
- Attach the side-arm so your dog can get familiar with the full setup.
- Leash up your pup with their new gear so they associate gear = bike.
Now, walk your dog around your bike. Every time he sniffs, give him a treat. Do this for 10 minutes a day, for a few days in a row.
You’ll begin to notice that just seeing the bike excites him – that’s a good sign he’s ready for the next step.
Practice Walking with the Bike
- Clip them into the side-arm (without riding yet).
- Walk in a straight line. Give treats for ignoring distractions.
- Practice “sit” when you stop — it helps later when you hit intersections or traffic stops.
When your dog can walk beside the bike without surging forward or getting distracted, they’re ready for the next level.
Step 3: Start riding
Phase 1: Slow + Controlled
Find a quiet flat area — think empty parking lot or a wide bike trail. Ride no faster than 5–10mph at first, and no longer than 5 minutes at a time. The goal is just to see how your dog handles motion.
Watch for a gentle trot — that’s your ideal pace.
- Too fast? Your dog tires quickly.
- Too slow? They might get frustrated or tangled up in their leash.
- Just right? They have a pace they can maintain for a long time — just right for biking.
Phase 2: Try Real Trails
Once your dog is consistently trotting calmly, it’s time to branch out.
Before you ride off, bring a bag with:
- Water + collapsible bowl
- Cooling bandana or shade cover
- Treats and paw balm
- Optional dog backpack or trailer (for tired pups).
Then, clip your dog to the side-arm and go for your ride. At first, go slow. As your dog gains confidence and experience riding with the bike, you’ll be able to go faster.
Things to Remember
- Dogs need to build up endurance just like we do. A high-energy dog may look fast, but that doesn’t mean they can run marathons. Start with short rides and build gradually.
- Watch out for signs of a happy, exhausted dog versus a worn-out dog.
- Good exhaustion looks: happy, calm, and eager to keep going.
- Bad exhaustion looks: lethargic, reluctant, and has a lower, hunched body posture.
- Consider investing in a dog-friendly backpack or bike trailer in case your dog gives out and you’re far from home.
- Avoid taking your dog out on very hot days to avoid the risk of heat stroke.
- Make sure your dog has plenty of fresh water and shade when they need it.
- Don’t know how often to give your dog water? A good rule of thumb is stop once every 10 minutes or so for a water break. Over time, you’ll get a sense of when they will need more water.
Step 4: After Care
Every ride should end with love — and a quick safety check.
Post-ride checklist:
- Check paws for cracks or burns (especially if you skipped boots)
- Look for ticks, fleas, or burrs in their coat
- Offer water and shade
- Watch for signs of overexertion: lethargy, glassy eyes, slowed pace
- Optional: give your pup a massage (you’d want one too)
Step 5: Avoid Common Mistakes
Make sure you dodge these common disasters:
- Jumping in too fast
Don’t try biking with a dog that’s never walked nicely on a leash. You will get dragged.
- Pushing through signs of stress
If your dog freezes, pants excessively, or suddenly pulls hard — stop. Don’t muscle through it. Your dog’s long-term health is more important than a few more steps.
- Forgetting situational awareness
Your surroundings matter more than usual. A loose dog running at you while you’re on wheels? Twice as dangerous. Always be ready to dismount.
Final Thoughts
Biking with your dog can be an absolute joy once you get the rhythm down. You’ll cover more distance, burn off that excess energy, and honestly? It feels like a win for both of you.
Just start slow, train intentionally, and always listen to your dog. You’ve got this!
