Physical exercise is not only necessary for humans, but it is equally essential for your dog pet. If you’re a cyclist and you have a dog, you need to take good care of the animal’s health and you might be wondering: is it legal to ride a bike with a dog?
It is legal to ride a bike with a dog because cycling with a dog pet is not prohibited by law so long as you don’t endanger other road users. All that is required is that you exert sufficient influence on the dog. Also, you should have at least one hand on the handlebars at all times.
Since every state has a set of rules that govern its road users, it is prudent to familiarize yourself with state laws on pets. All the same, it is illegal to walk a dog when operating a motorized vehicle.
Is it Legal to Ride a bike With a Dog Running beside You?
Like we just observed in the introduction, you can ride your bike with your dog. While it is legal to cycle with your canine friend, it is good to adhere to local government laws on pets.
At the same time, there are countries where riding with your dog beside you is illegal. So, when you go visiting, it is advisable to familiarize yourself with your host town’s laws before becoming the clown of the day.
Also, make sure that your dog will be on the outer side of the road as you ride. By doing so, you minimize the chance of distracting motorists or even the risk of being run over.
Is Riding a Bike With My Dog Safe?
Cycling with your dog may not be prohibited by law but we need to consider the safety aspect of your activities. Only you can answer this question comprehensively based on your dog’s temperament, experience, and general disposition.
Before you step out with your dog walking or running beside you, ensure that it is safe for all.
If your dog seems easily distractible or loves darting at vehicles and other animals, maybe you should delay taking him out with you. It could be dangerous for you, your pet, or even other road users.
Remember, riding with your dog could be legal, but causing disturbance to other road users could land you in trouble. So, train your pet and get the best equipment before going to the streets with it.
Equipment Required to Ride a Bike Safely With a Dog
Assuming that you already have a bike with you, then it is time to do things right. First, always wear the correct helmet when biking.
Again, you need to wear bright colored clothes that will make you easily noticeable. As such, you will significantly reduce the chances of other riders and drivers running into you.
You’ll need a dog reflective vest that enhances visibility and a reflective collar with ID tags on it for your dog.
Definitely, it goes without saying that when you are going out with your dog, it has to be under a leash. Well, when biking, the leash may not be a good idea. Although some folks will hold the leash in one hand or tie it to the seat post, it can lead to catastrophic falls.
Technically, there is a danger of the dog coming too close, or lunging for a squirrel.
So, is it safe to cycle with a dog? Yes, you only need one of the following items, and you will be safe riding with your pet.
1. The Springer Dog Exerciser 
The springer is a piece of equipment that you attach to your bike’s seat tube with a clamp. Practically, the springer keeps the dog at a safe distance from your bicycle.
The mounting steel has an extending arm that you attach to your dog’s harness (not the collar).
To avoid accidents from the dog’s impulses, the springer features a steel spring that absorbs up to 90% of the force.
Also, the springer eliminates the danger of the leash winding onto the crank arms of your bike.
2. The Walky Dog Bicycle Leash
The walky dog leash works almost the same as the springer, only that you attach it to the seat post.
The device features a wand with has a strong leash that attaches to the dog’s harness. This keeps the dog at a safe distance from the bicycle.
The walky dog has an internal shock-absorbing system that takes care of sudden movements by the dog.
Since the leash is short (6.5”), it prevents the dog from going ahead or behind the bike.
How Far Can a Dog Run Before Getting Tired?
Dogs don’t have the ability to sprint for long. They run with regular breaks for them to take a breather. But they can trot for a long time without tiring.
Again, just like humans, dogs need time to practice for endurance. Therefore, you can take your dog for a mile or less for a start and increase the distance and speed gradually.
The other factors that affect how far your dog can run before getting tired include:
- Breed of your dog
- Age of the animal
- The general health of your pet
- Weight of the dog
- Riding speed
Is it Legal to Ride With a Dog in My Bike Basket?
Like we had observed earlier, you will be within the law if you decide to cycle with your dog. But is it legal to ride a bike with your dog in the bicycle basket?
Before we answer that question, let’s mention that different dogs have different fitness and endurance levels.
When the dog is too young or old, having them walk as you ride could do them more harm than good. Therefore, you might need to carry the dog on the bike.
Generally, the law doesn’t prohibit you from carrying your dog pet on the bike basket. The only one that comes close to it is the law banning carrying an unlawful load on a bicycle.
If carrying the dog on the bike doesn’t prevent you from having at least one hand on the handlebar, then you shouldn’t have any legal issues.
When transporting the pets in a bike basket, their safety is paramount. Make sure the animal can’t hurt itself on endanger other road users by jumping off.
In case your bike doesn’t have a basket, you may consider at ANZOME bike basket that is ideal for small dogs.
Also Read: 10 Ways To Make Your Bike Faster
Final Word
Do you like going out with your dog but you don’t want to leave your bike? Well, you can ride your bike and walk your dog at the same time.
It is not an offense to ride a bike with a dog beside you so long as you are in perfect control of the animal.
Get the correct equipment to ride with your dog safely. If the dog is tired, you will without a doubt have to carry the pet back home. Having a pet basket on your bicycle will be an added advantage.