So I need to get Joey into coursing shape and work on building up his speed and endurance more. I tried running with him the other day and my running his a fast jog for him and I was out of breath before he even got a chance to warm up.
So... I think I might take up biking with him to condition him.
What kind of bikes would you recommend for comfort and easy biking with a dog? I know some bikes have straight handles and others the hand curves under? I know how to ride a bicycle, but I don't really know much about them and what to look for. I also can't afford a new one right now so I'm browsing craigslist for used ones. How do you know what's the right size bike for you? I keep seeing... 14 inch, 17 inch, yada yada. Do you measure somewhere on your body to see what bike you would fit or is it best just to get on the bike and see if it works for you?
Do you leash your dog to the bike or just hold the leash in your hand? I'm planning to start off slow to get him used to even being around me when I'm biking because I'm worried about him cutting in front of the bike.
I'm planning to bike on as many dirt trails as I can find, but we may have to at least do some jogging on pavement at times. I was thinking about getting Joey some booties for when we have to be on pavement... any advice on booties and brands? He has hare type feet with long toes so I'd have to find something that fits his feet properly.
Any other advice for someone starting out on biking with their dog? The main goal of this is first and foremost exercise, but also to work on building up his endurance. When he is practicing lure coursing he starts off fast, but slows down and tires out pretty quickly right now.
So... I think I might take up biking with him to condition him.
What kind of bikes would you recommend for comfort and easy biking with a dog? I know some bikes have straight handles and others the hand curves under? I know how to ride a bicycle, but I don't really know much about them and what to look for. I also can't afford a new one right now so I'm browsing craigslist for used ones. How do you know what's the right size bike for you? I keep seeing... 14 inch, 17 inch, yada yada. Do you measure somewhere on your body to see what bike you would fit or is it best just to get on the bike and see if it works for you?
Do you leash your dog to the bike or just hold the leash in your hand? I'm planning to start off slow to get him used to even being around me when I'm biking because I'm worried about him cutting in front of the bike.
I'm planning to bike on as many dirt trails as I can find, but we may have to at least do some jogging on pavement at times. I was thinking about getting Joey some booties for when we have to be on pavement... any advice on booties and brands? He has hare type feet with long toes so I'd have to find something that fits his feet properly.
Any other advice for someone starting out on biking with their dog? The main goal of this is first and foremost exercise, but also to work on building up his endurance. When he is practicing lure coursing he starts off fast, but slows down and tires out pretty quickly right now.