Best Races for You and Your Dog

Photo Credit: Whistle Pig, Leland, NC

Your dog needs exercise just as much as you do, so why not sign up for a race that allows you to bring your furry friend along? Get Fido rigged up and hit the road because you won't find a more eager running partner than your four-pawed running buddy.

Mighty Dog 5K
April 19, 2015 - Granite Bay, California

The Mighty Dog 5K invites both two- and four-legged runners to take part in this 5K in the confines of Granite Bay State Park. Water stops for both dogs and humans are available on the course, with all participants receiving medals and dog tags.

Run with the Dogs 5K and 1-Mile Dog & Jog
April 25, 2015 - Benton, Arkansas

This event, organized by the Saline County Striders, includes both a competitive 5K and a fun 1-miler for you and your furry friend. Even if you don't have a dog, the Humane Society of Saline County will be ready and waiting with adoptable dogs that would be more than happy to run or walk alongside you.

Atlanta Dog Jog
May 2, 2015 - Atlanta, Georgia

This annual event for dogs and their owners is held in Piedmont Park in Atlanta. A Peachtree Road Race Qualifier, this 5K and 1-mile run/walk raises money for VetHeart of Georgia and Canine Assistants, a non-profit that breeds, raises, and trains working dogs for individuals with physical disabilities and seizure disorders.

Dash for the Dogs
May 17, 2015 - Barrington, Illinois

The Dash for the Dogs event includes both a 5K run and 1-mile family fun walk for dogs and their owners. This race raises much-needed funds to pay the medical bills and other needs of the animals staying at the Animal House Shelter.

Fast and the Furry 8K and 5K9
May 30, 2015 - St. Paul, Minnesota

This dog-friendly event welcomes runners and walkers alike. The race is held on Harriet Island with views of downtown St. Paul and proceeds benefit several local canine charities. In addition to the race itself, there's also a pet expo that is free and open to the public.

Lost Dog 5K Series
August 7, 14, 21, 28, 2015 - Arlington, Virginia

This event, which includes four Friday night races in August, welcomes runners and their furry friends to run along the Bluemont Trail in Arlington. It's the perfect way to kick off your weekend, with each event culminating at a post-race party at Lost Dog's Stray Cat Caf?.

Papa John's Mutt Strut
August 22, 2015 - Greenville, South Carolina

In 2014, this 2-mile run/walk brought in 2,000 two-legged and 1,500 four-legged participants who raised more than $50,000 for the Greenville Humane Society. The state's largest dog-friendly race, this is a great way to get the whole family involved in a running event.

Dash 5K and Doggie Run
Date TBA - Washington, D.C.

If you're looking to log a personal best, the 1-Mile Doggie Run may be the race you've been looking for. Water bowls are provided for pups at both the start and finish of this scenic course through Rock Creek Park. There's even a costume contest for the best-dressed runner and dog duo. Watch out for the date of this race that has been held in November in the past.

Active logo No dog? Sign up for your next human-only race.

About the Author

Mackenzie Lobby Havey

Mackenzie Lobby Havey is a Minneapolis-based freelance writer and photographer with a Master's in Kinesiology from the University of Minnesota. She has run 10 marathons and is a USATF certified coach. When she's not writing, she's out swimming, biking, and running the Minneapolis Chain of Lakes. Check out her website at mackenzielobby.com.
Mackenzie Lobby Havey is a Minneapolis-based freelance writer and photographer with a Master's in Kinesiology from the University of Minnesota. She has run 10 marathons and is a USATF certified coach. When she's not writing, she's out swimming, biking, and running the Minneapolis Chain of Lakes. Check out her website at mackenzielobby.com.

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