Running with dogs- technique gone to pot !

[Kilnhurstc]

Hi, I'm a sprinter by nature and never have enjoyed any sort of distance, but having kitted me and my dogs up am enjoying running with them. Problem is, they pull quite hard so I end up landing my feet out in front and am therefore getting some leg/ back pain. Won't be inclined to run without them. one needs to stay attached to me so only one of them I can let off periodically when it's safe to do so. My question is, given tho scenario, am I better to stick to the week I've just finished( week 4) until I can keep up with them rather than being dragged and landing my feet badly, or should I be doing some interval stuff instead? Or go back further week wise? Thankyou 😊

[Gee9 Graduate]

Not really got advice lol, but I've just had my family's husky stay for two months who is also a puller (natually). My own husky/gsd runs alongside me in his collar so put his harness on the husky and worked on vocal cues to slow him to my speed and keep his attention. - done this on a few walks too so he learned that kit doesn't always mean fast. To start with I'd take him to an enclosed space for a bomb around to get rid of the worst of the energy before officially setting off Changing his harness from his usual one to the one designed for running really reduced the impact on my back (and I assume his also) during the 'lively' first weeks too.

I don't think I'd have the motivation to run without them either <3 great companions.

[Skyart Graduate]

I run with my dog too and when we run in the park I have to keep him on the lead. I’m now in week 7 and it’s got much better. I’ve had to use voice commands a lot (a good test of whether I can speak) but he’s finally used to trotting alongside rather than pulling out front. I’d say keep going and get on to the longer runs- then their training should be easier as you’re at a more constant pace and they’ll pull less?