I am just looking for any insight people may have on running with their dog. I have an 8 month old mutt who is full of energy and I want to start running with him soon. I have done a bit of research so I know that you have to ease into it which is great for me b/c I am not a runner either but I think it would be a good exercise for both of us. I also know that you have to wait until their joints are fully formed to run with them so I may wait a few more month to begin. I am just looking for insight, and tips people may have because he is quite rambunctious and when I even run across a street or something like that he gets really excited and runs ahead and every which way lol.

I really wish that I could run with my dog, but she has a hard time around other dogs and she is extremely strong. I was actually pulled across the road by her. I think I will definitely start to walk with her again now that I am older too.
As for tips, my aunt always said to train them to walk by your side, so that could help when running and you puppy gets too far ahead or wanders off.

Hi!
JZJ here - runner, dog lover, veterinarian. Your dog is old enough to start training runs of short distances (build up to 1 to 2 miles max until a year old), unless he's a large/giant breed that needs a bit more time to mature. Try to do runs that are not on cement sidewalks, both for your joints and for his joints and footpads, and especially while he's still young. Every dog is a bit different in terms of what training methods work best. I've run with my dogs on halters and short leashes until they were trained and trustworthy enough to be off-leash (never near streets or other hazards, of course). Some people use haltis/gentle leaders which are great for basic leash training, but can prevent a dog from drinking and panting fully when hot so I don't recommend them for the actual runs. Never use choke or pinch collars, of course. Also, spool or retractable leashes are impossible to use while training. I use clicker training as an adjunct when halter-training for running. This helps to tie the rewards the dog gets to behaviors like stopping on command, heeling in response to command (usually given if the dog starts pulling), etc. Be sure to combine runs with free/play time, so that your dog gets used to the run as his "obedience time", not play time. You could start with a bit of playing or fetch to burn off a bit of his energy, then go out for a short training run after.

Thanks so much!!!! We have completed the star puppy class and use the clicker when needed so that is a great idea because he does respond well to it. I really appreciate the advice as I want to do what is best for him

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cani_cross not sure if there is much in your area, I did a off road 10k about 3 years ago and this lot were running the same course, they set off about 20mins after us and myself and my mate were passed by this 6' beanpole woman being pulled along by a collie. she didn't appear to be running as much as bounding with the dog doing the work.

Thanks slimmingsi! That is interesting, I like the bungee cord idea and I will look into it we definitely have plenty of dirt trails here in Maine, just need to find them!! Thank goodness for the internet!