Riding with my dog running beside me - Cycling Mob: Road Cycling, Mountain Biking and More

11-27-2004, 04:01 PM

The dog I had prior to my black lab (a little mutt) used to follow me
when I rode my bike and pull at my pant legs and get in front of the
bike, under the bike, in the wheels...it was ridiculous. Today I was
riding my bike around our property. Its a very big yard for suburbia.
My Labrador Retriver ran right along side of me in perfect harmony
with the bike. I never imagined a dog would do that. She knew when I
was going to turn, she stayed right at my side, and I was amazed.
When I turned a corner I fell over and on my ass and she quickly got
out of the way. I have seen dogs ride next to their owners on
bikes...but I thought it was something they were trained to do. My lab
just started running along side of me and never once misinterpreted
where I was going or which way I was turning. I was wondering if
certain dogs have a natural instinct because they run with the pack.
She ran with me as if she were keeping up with the pack and
maintaining her own space. My other dog never did that. My whole
family was amazed. Does it have something to do with big dogs who run
with the pack? I wish I could take her out when I ride in the park,
but we have leash laws. I doubt if I could hold a leash and ride. Plus
if the dog sees a squirrel I will be road kill. Do any of you ride
with Fido beside you?