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Is it safe to run my high-energy dog long distances on pavement?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Medium (23 - 60lb) | Male | unneutered | 1 year and 5 months old | 44 lbs

I have mixed dog golden retriver/croatian sheepherd. He is 17 months old and likes to run, i run him on bike. In 1:56 hours we pass 14.4 miles with 7,4 mph approx. speed with 2 times break total 50 minutes (30 min and 20 min) . His top speed was 33,6 mph, average 18-22 mph. I try tempo 10 mph he pulls faster. That means we did 14,4 miles in 1 hour. He has 20 kg and 50 cm. Is that dangerous on pavement? He seems to enjoy running in 30 min pause starts to be impatient to go more.

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1 Answer

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Answered By Sara Farmer, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on September 10th, 2018

I'm a little confused about exactly how fast he's typically going, but as long as he seems to be able to keep up without trouble and gets breaks for water he should be okay. My main concern with pavement is that it can either be too hot or rough on the paw pads so I would plan to check his feet often when you're out and plan to stop if there is any redness. It might be best to avoid the pavement on hot days. There are also boots for dogs available that you could put on him if his feet are getting torn up.

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