🐾 Running - What It’s Like Being Outrun by a Samoyed (Every. Single. Time.)

I’ll be honest, I never imagined running with a dog would actually make it easier, although sometimes its harder when she sees a squirrel and tries to drag me off to chase it!

I have to concentrate on her rather than what I'm doing, constantly watching her ear flicks, directing her and leaping over her when she decides she's got an itchy foot, actually makes me forget about the tiredness, aches and pains, and continuously talking to her makes my breaths flow better.

Samoyed watching runners taking part in Parkrun

The Reluctant Runner (Still Me)

Let’s get one thing straight, I’m the kind of person who needs to really hype myself up just to put on running shoes.

But my Samoyed? She’s into it. Not sprinting like she’s chasing a medal—but she enjoys the rhythm. Steady, happy, and probably wondering why I’m always half a step behind.

We’re not fast. We’re definitely not first. But we do show up to Parkrun nearly every week. Even when we’re away, we look up the nearest one and make it part of our little adventure. There’s something comforting about turning up somewhere new, joining a crowd of strangers, and setting off together—all paces welcome, tails included.

Why I Keep Going

Every week, I think of reasons not to. Too cold. Too tired. Too much to do.

But then I see her waiting, tail wagging like she already knows we’re going, so off we go.

About halfway in, something shifts. My head clears, my pace settles, and the world feels quieter—even if we’re surrounded by 200 people in running gear.

We run together. She glances up every now and then like “You good back there?” And somehow, I always finish smiling.

Unexpected Wins

As someone who spends most of the day editing behind a screen, running has surprisingly become something I look forward to. Not for the pace or the performance—just the headspace and moving my body.

Running with her has given me more than sore legs.

• A sense of routine

• A way to feel grounded when travelling

• Moments of joy I never would’ve planned

• An excuse to explore parks i never know existed

And when we get home? She flops. I stretch. We both earn our snacks.

Things My Dog Has Taught Me About Running (and Life)

• You don’t have to be fast, just consistent.

• It’s better with company—even if they don’t talk.

• Getting out is the hardest part, but it’s always worth it.

So if you ever spot us on a trail, me puffing, her pacing like a pro, just know it’s our thing. We’re not chasing PBs. We’re chasing consistency, headspace, and shared time.

And if there’s a Parkrun near you, you might just see us there next Saturday.

Do you Parkrun with your dog too? Or have a favorite route you love? Let me know in the comments—or tag me on Instagram @imageenvyediting.We’re always on the lookout for the next new trail to explore.

Back soon with more edits, tips, and probably a dog story or two.

Shane-Louise