Bike Dog Walker

Step 8 Taking it out for a test run

For the first ride it is best for the both of you to go out by yourselves for at least a mile or so until you and your dog get accustomed to the bike dog walker. Then you should be able to ride as a group like in these pictures below.

In these videos you can see that I was using a retractable dog leash, which I would not recommend. I really had to try hard to keep the leash out of the tire, unless you shorten the length.

Update: Aug 8th 2009, we went out for a ride with a yellow lab called "Bell", and a leash that was 3 feet long. That length of 3 feet worked the best for her. So I would like to change my original recommendation of a 6 foot leash, to a 3 foot leash.

Comments

[vcote]

This pug is incredible! Mine would have run for 5 minutes and then he would have just drag along on his back... It is the first not lazy pug I see.

Second: this is genius. I've been wanting my husband to take the greyhound for a bike ride, but she is really skittish and he is afraid something will spook her and she'll run in front of him. This will solve that.

Plus, your video proves to my husband that she is NOT too small to follow a bike. She is taller than a pug! If he can, she can.

[GlassDragon]

I can't wait to make my own. I've want to exercise with our new dog but my knees can't take running and I've been worried about being pulled off the bike holding the leash - she's powerful and loves to run. This will be perfect.

[larry.norder]

Hi, this is excellent. I have a Swiss Mountain Dog who weighs in at 122 pounds. What size kotter pin should I use. On another note, he is trained to pull a sled, maybe I can adopt your design to add some dog pulling power for the hill climbs! Best, Larry Norder

[Raydoom]

Brilliant design but you have still got the problem of having to stop sharply when your dog wants to turn elsewhere or stop but that is an almost unstoppable problem good work tho .

[marcintosh]

First off- this is GREAT. Thank you. I had one in years prior that was a commercial product. When I changed bikes it no longer fit. 8-(
Looking at your design it appears that it might also be possible to attach this to the seat or chain stay as well.
Thanks for including the video too. It's always nice to be able to see items in action as it lets me know what to expect. Especially the Disconnect video!

[colossalman]

This is fantastic! I've just been holding the leash, that makes it hard to brake and shift though. Also always worried about running over her tail or toes. This is going to be great, thanks for sharing this howto!

[drumallday]

Thank you so much for this! My dog really needs exercise and I haven't been able to go bike riding with him because he will run in front of my bike or pull me over. This is going to make for a happy dog and a happy person.