As the warmer weather moves in you may be looking for some fun outdoor activities to do with your furry friend. Exercising can be a great way to have fun with your dog! There are great races all across America that are dog-friendly. Check out our top picks below.
Race: Running with the Bears Marathon, Half Marathon and 10k
Where: Greenville, CA
When: April 2019
Why we love it: Not only does this race have dog treats every two miles at each aid station but many aid stations also have mini swimming pools for your furry friend to cool off in. The course is mostly flat along the base of the Sierra Mountains with three different distance for you and your dog to choose from. After the race, there is a huge post-race party with free massages and beer. All dog finishers get their own finishers medal!
Race: Tails and Trails Half Marathon, 10K, 5K and 1-Mile
Where: Omaha, Nebraska
When: May 18, 2019
Why we love it: This awesome race benefits 3 non-profit rescue groups so not only do you get to spend some quality time with your dog, but you are also helping some great organizations. “Top dog” special dog bowl awards are given to the 1st place female and 1st place male for each distance. The race has dog water stations at each aid station. All dog racers get a special finishers tag and to top it all off, the rescue groups have adoptable dogs on site.
Race: Slacker Half Marathon
Where: Georgetown, Colorado
When: June 2019
Why we love it: This run is through the Loveland Ski Resort in the middle of the summer, making for breathtaking Rocky Mountain views with a great temperature. In 2018, this race was voted the Top Dog friendly Run in the USA by Run Repeat. The first 5 miles of the course is along streams which is perfect if your dog needs a cool down. There are also dog (and human) water stations every 2 miles. This race offers special treats for dog finishers and 1st, 2nd and 3rd place awards for the top dogs in each race.
Race: Columbia Gorge Half Marathon
Where: Hood River, Oregon
When: October 2019
Why we love it: There is a reason that this race is dubbed the “Most scenic marathon in the country”. The course takes you down the Columbia River Highway, by waterfalls and through the beautiful fall trees. All this along with the perfect fall temperatures make it a can’t miss race for you and your dog! Dogs participating in the race even get their own time chip.