When can my Aussie mix safely start running on hard surfaces?

Question

Hello, I have an 8 month old Australian shepherd mix, and I'm wondering how old she should be for me to start training her to run. Thanks. Pet's info: Dog | Australian Shepherd | Female | spayed | 8 months and 9 days old | 30 lbs

Dr. Heidi DVM, CVA, CCRT, CVTP, CVSMT, CVCH · Accepted Answer

The concern with running is the amount of pounding her joints will take and potential damage to them as she grows. The general rule we use is not to allow any running on concrete until the dog is fully grown and all growth plates are closed (which will likely be around 1 year of age in an Australian Shepherd mix). Before that time, she can run on soft surfaces (like grass or dirt), but not any hard surfaces. Good luck! I hope that was helpful and answered your question. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach.

When can my Aussie mix safely start running on hard surfaces?

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