Running with your dog is great for the both of you, physically, but it also helps grow an everlasting bond between you and your best friend. Here is a list of 5K’s and running events around the United States to get you and your pup active together.

Northeast

8th Annual Paws & Claws – Hopkinton, MA - October, 5th

This annual run/walk is through Hopkinton’s beautiful state park! Last year they had over 500 participants (including the pups) and hope to raise the bar. With live music, sponsors and vendors galore, come on down and help raise money for the Baypath Humane Society of Hopkinton. All proceeds will be donated towards fitting you with the best fit, enriching animals lives, and animal education/outreach.

Dog Jog 5k Run/ Walk: Calverton – New York – September 24th

In New York’s Isaac Dog Park, grab your little runner and enjoy the beautiful September weather. The money raised from this event will go to TEAM RED WHITE AND BLUE, a charity that assists wounded veterans with their daily lives as well as allowing them to participate in athletics!

5th The Rescue Run 5k – Philadelphia - September 24th

Run to support The Monster Milers dog rescue organization at the Navy Ship Yard. This organization saves dogs from the Philly Shelters and find the dogs loving homes. This is their biggest fundraiser of the year and allows them to keep up their amazing work. Just to warn you, dogs are not allowed to run in the race but are encouraged to be at the event on a leash.

Midwest

Paws for a cause 5K – Chicago - July 23rd

Come along to the Paws for Cause 5K in Chicago’s Burnham Park for a 5K donating all proceeds to fully trained service dogs and local charities. This event is sponsored by Tito’s Vodka promoting their Vodka for dog people program.

Pike River Trail Run/Walk – Wisconsin - September 30

If you’re a nature lover, this is the run for you! With the trails, rivers, trees and hills, the beauty of the surrounding area will keep you going for the 3.5 or 6.5 mile run/walk. This walk is part of the CaniCross Event Series.

West

Brewery Run Series – Colorado

The Brewery Run Series boasts over a dozen different breweries and races to go along with them. At each event there is typically live music, food trucks, giveaways, and more. Check their site and make sure the brewery you want to go to will allow the dogs inside the brewery. The races always will allow your pup to join regardless!

The Good Dog – Dirty Dog 5k – California - August 27th

After this 5K, feel free to take your pup for a dip in the beautiful Folsom Lake. Win a prize for reaching first, second, or third in your dog’s weight category or just enjoy the nice weather and walk it!

South

Barkin River Run – Texas - October 1st

Come enjoy the 5k Race and then enjoy the 1k “Just for fun” race/walk in the lovely Waco, Texas area! All proceeds and donations for this event go straight to McLennan Animal Rescue Coalition (MARC) an all-volunteer non-profit animal welfare organization. with the mission of reducing kill shelters and creating as no kill community.

Anderson Humane Mutt Strutt 5K – Kentucky - October 7th

A family fun event to bring your pup, the Anderson Humane Society is hosting their 5k at the County Park Vendor Fair. They have games, vendors, activities for the family, and more!

Nationwide

Day of the Dog – Across the United States - August 26th

Join Chicago’s Day of The Dog Virtual run! August 26th is National Dog day and what better way to celebrate than run with your pooch. 15% of every registration goes towards Freedom Service Dogs who help living with disabilities. You can complete this run any time in August and choose the course while timing yourself. If you don’t want to run it yourself look for the run in your area! They have runs scheduled in Chicago, New York, and many other various locations!

For other events in your area, check out Iron doggy for a whole long list of running events from every state.

There are runs, jogs, 5ks, and more in every part of the country and getting out and giving your little one the exercise they need is the best love you can give your pooch! If you have any great experiences or know of any runs that we missed please comment below and tell us your thoughts!