As the 2025 TCS London Marathon approaches this weekend, many runners are gearing up to put months of dedicated training to the test. While dogs aren’t allowed to join the race, your four-legged friend may have been instrumental in helping you get to the starting line—especially if they’ve been part of your training routine.
Whether you’re preparing for Sunday’s big race or simply inspired to pursue your own running goals, having your dog by your side during training can make a significant, and joyful, impact on your fitness journey. Pet health specialists at Webbox share how running with your dog could have helped you prepare for the marathon and why this habit is worth keeping long after race day.
Why Running with Your Dog Works
Dogs can be surprisingly effective training partners. For many pet owners, dogs bring energy, consistency, and motivation to daily life, and this becomes especially apparent on those days when staying in seems like the easier option. When it comes to workouts and sticking to a running schedule, dogs help make training fun, light-hearted, and consistent. Whether you’re logging recovery miles or working on building endurance, your dog is always a supportive and lovable companion.
Running with your dog also helps with accountability. Training with your pup turns exercise into bonding time, while they burn off energy and you build stamina. For those preparing for the marathon, early morning park strolls or long weekend runs with your dog could have played a big part in sticking to your plan.
How It May Have Helped Your Marathon Prep
- Consistency: Dogs thrive on routine, and so do runners. Knowing your dog is always ready for a jog can keep you on track with your schedule.
- Recovery Runs: After a tough training session, slower-paced runs or quick-paced walks with your dog are ideal for active recovery.
- Mental Boost: Spending time outdoors with your dog is known to boost mood and reduce stress—helpful for those high-mileage weeks or pre-race nerves.
- Cross-Training: Hikes or long walks with your dog may have helped you build your fitness base and endurance without overtraining.
Breeds: What You Should Know
Certain breeds, like Labradors, Vizslas, Dalmatians, and Collies, make fantastic running partners due to their energy and endurance. However, flat-nosed breeds like Pugs or very young dogs should avoid long-distance running, although regular walks or hikes can still complement your training.
It’s essential to have the right gear for both you and your dog. A waist leash can allow you to run hands-free, and a well-fitted harness or lightweight backpack helps carry water and treats for both of you. Always remember to bring extra hydration for your dog, as they can tire and dehydrate faster than humans, especially in warmer weather.
Keeping Up the Habit Post-Race
As race day nears, now is the perfect time to enjoy low-pressure, feel-good movement with your dog. Whether you’re stretching your legs after the marathon or setting new running goals later in the year, your dog can help you stay active, balanced, and connected to your fitness routine in a healthy way.
Crossing the finish line doesn’t mean the end of your running journey. Use the weeks following the marathon to recover while maintaining movement, and if you plan to race again in the future, your dog can be your faithful training companion once more.
A Final Word
“We know that dogs are our daily companions—cheerful and loving, offering comfort and joy. But when it comes to running, they’re also our biggest supporters, providing motivation, consistency, and unconditional love. If you make sure to consider your dog’s health and wellbeing alongside your running goals, this type of partnership can be incredibly rewarding. With proper research into your dog’s breed and what they’re capable of, along with plenty of rewards along the way, you’ll have the perfect running buddy for years to come. The marathon may end soon, but your dog will always be by your side—both on training days and at the finish line.”
– Claire Kelly, Head of Marketing at Webbox
About Webbox
Since 1984, Webbox has been dedicated to creating pet food that tastes good and does good too. Specializing in pet food, treats, and toys, Webbox ensures that your pets receive all the essential vitamins and minerals they need for a healthy lifestyle. Better yet, their food and treats are so tasty that your pets will keep coming back for more.
