Rollerblading with dogs is fun and burns tons of energy!
Whenever our NC weather wasn’t crazy humid and hot, I would take my pups Missy & Buzz for a spin on wheels. They were Boxer mixes who weighed 50 lbs and 75 lbs, respectively.
However, rollerblading with dogs is not an activity I recommend you just jump into. That’s because it requires careful preparation and training to ensure both your and your pup’s safety.
That’s why in this blog post, I’ll share several tips to successfully help you rollerblade with your dog.
Ready? Let’s jump right in!
Rollerblading With Dogs
Disclaimer: This blog post was originally published in 2015 and has been updated in 2023. It contains affiliate links I may earn compensation through at no additional cost to you.
Benefits of Rollerblading With Dogs
It’s pretty obvious that rollerblading is a great way to physically exercise your high energy dog.
That’s because it provides an intense cardiovascular workout for both you and your pup.
The constant movement and forward momentum helps high-energy dogs release pent-up energy, maintain a healthy weight, and improve overall fitness.
Breeds who are extremely hard to tire out can also wear a doggie backpack.
Also, since high-energy dogs require more daily exercise than average to reach a state of relaxation, rollerblading allows them to settle down more easily afterwards.
But beyond that, here are 8 more benefits:
Mental Stimulation
You probably know that dogs (all dogs, not just high-energy pups!) need more than just physical exercise—they also require mental stimulation.
Well, rollerblading engages their senses as they navigate different terrains, encounter new scents, and respond to cues from you.
Bonding Time
Rollerblading is an activity that you and your dog can enjoy together, which strengthens the bond between you.
The shared experience and time spent together will enhance your relationship and build trust.
Channeling Energy
High-energy dogs who aren’t properly exercised can display problem behaviors like chewing, digging, or barking excessively.
Rollerblading provides a positive outlet for their energy, and helps reduce these unwanted behaviors.
Satisfying Instincts
Many high-energy dogs have strong prey drives or a desire to pull.
Rollerblading allows them to channel these instincts in a controlled manner, which can be satisfying for them.
Endorphin Release
Just like humans, dogs experience an endorphin release during exercise, which can improve their mood and help reduce anxiety or stress.
Improved Agility and Coordination
Rollerblading involves maneuvering around obstacles, turning, and changing speed.
This can enhance your dog’s agility, coordination, and overall physical control.
Enhanced Socialization
While rollerblading, your dog is likely to encounter other people, dogs, and animals.
This can help improve their socialization skills and behavior around others.
Fun and Positive Experience
If done safely and properly, rollerblading can be a fun and enjoyable activity for both you and your dog.
That brings me to something else I want to talk to you about, and that’s how to safely rollerblade with your dog!
How To Rollerblade With Dogs
First things first, please understand that not all dogs are suitable for rollerblading.
Make sure that your dog is physically fit, healthy, and has a good temperament for outdoor activities.
Larger breeds with lots of energy to burn and a strong desire to pull are typically the best candidates for this dog sport.
Safety First
You should obviously be fairly comfortable on rollerblades before you take your pup for a roll.
That includes knowing how to stop! You can either use the built-in break on your rollerblades, or do a 180 stop.
Also, at a minimum, I recommend that you wear a protective rollerblade skate helmet.
If you want, you can also wear kneepads and wrist guards.
Tip: Get a protection gear set consisting of a helmet, knee & elbow pads, and wrist guards here.
Rollerblading is usually not a good idea for puppies while they’re in their growth phase.
So make sure to check in with your vet to get their OK before you take your young dog rollerblading!
Start Slowly
Before you begin your rollerblading adventure, get your pup used to those funny shoes on rolls.
I wore mine inside our apartment a few times & rolled around a little inside. That way, the pups got to see me in rolling action and got a chance to get used to this new activity.
Here’s what I did prior to rollerblading with the pups for the very first time.
We all walked downstairs into an empty parking area at our apartment complex. That’s where I tied the pups to a tree, gave them some treats, and switched out my shoes for my rollerblades.
Then I began rolling around the area.
High-Value Dog Treats
After a few spins in the park, I rolled back up to the pups and gave them some treats.
That’s so they could make the positive connection with the rollerblades.
Next, I added a pup to the rolling equation.
In order to keep her focused on walking nicely next to me, I handed out quite a few treats at first, and it worked out very nicely!
I had the treats in one of those clip-on treat bags for easy access.
I alternated between rollerblading with Missy & Buzz in that park for about a week.
We then ventured into deeper waters and began rollerblading together on bike paths, all three of us.
Leash and Equipment
Use a sturdy, comfortable, and non-retractable leash. For example, a 6 ft leash.
Optional: Go for a 6′ leash with a built-in traffic handle.
That way, you can keep them right next to you when there’s oncoming (doggie) traffic.
I’ve used the Mighty Paw dual handle leash a lot.
But either way, you can attach the leash either to your dog’s collar or to their harness.
If you want your dog to pull you rather than just trot next to you, you’ll probably get the best use out of specific dog pulling harness.
One last word on leashes – you can also use a hands-free waist leash if you’re very confident in your and your dog’s rollerblading abilities.
Basic Obedience Training
Your dog should have a solid foundation in basic obedience commands such as “sit,” “stay,” “come,” and “heel” before you attempt rollerblading with them.
These commands will help you maintain control and keep both of you safe.
Practice Rollerblading-Specific Commands
Practice commands like “slow,” “stop,” and “leave it.”
These commands will help you control your dog’s speed and prevent them from chasing after distractions.
Spend time teaching your dog to respond to cues like “turn” or “change sides.” This will help you navigate turns and obstacles smoothly.
Choose Suitable Terrain
Start on flat, smooth, and uncrowded paths or trails.
Avoid crowded areas or places with heavy traffic, as these can be overwhelming for your dog.
Monitor Temperature
Pay attention to the weather!
Dogs can overheat quickly, so avoid rollerblading during the hottest parts of the day.
Bring water for both you and your dog.
Stay Attentive
Keep an eye on your dog’s body language.
If your pup appears uncomfortable, stressed, or exhausted, it’s time to stop and take a break.
Also, check your dog’s paw pads for potential cuts or scrapes after each rollerblading adventure.
If necessary, treat them with some dog paw balm like Musher’s paw wax.
Reward and Positive Reinforcement
Praise and reward your dog for good behavior during and after rollerblading sessions.
This will help reinforce positive behavior and make the experience enjoyable for them.
Rollerblading With Dogs: Bottom Line
Rollerblading is a great activity to physically and mentally exercise your high-energy dog!
That said, please make sure that they’re physically fit for this type of activity, not in their puppy growth phase and that they know basic obedience commands.
Just to recap, here’s what you’ll need to rollerblade safely with your dog:
- Rollerblades
- Helmet
- Kneepads
- Wrist guards
- Sturdy dual handle 6 ft leash (non-retractable)
Optional: Dog treat pouch and dog paw wax as well as dog pulling harness.
Do you rollerblade with your pup(s)? As always, we’d love to hear from you in our comment section!
Related Reading:
- 5 tools of a professional dog walker
- How to play hide & seek with dogs
- Where can I take my dog to swim?
- How to teach your dog to do doggie pushups
- How to train your dog to accept a dog backpack
Leave a Reply