I am doing couch to 5 k in 9 weeks with Willow, my 2 year old lab. I am completely new to running. Please can anyone recommend one of those belt things with a lead that you can put round your waist?

I use one made by Indi dog

http://indi-dog.co.uk/index.php?route=product/product&product_id=117

She is able to make to your size and needs, extra rings etc. nicely padded too. Check out longer leads too as it's possible your existing one may be a little short. The leads have a 'grab handle' near the end, useful when your dog needs to be kept close to you such as crossing roads.

Good luck with your run.

Well done Treacle, I'm considering the same :)

Jodie, I'm clearly feeling a bit dim as I can't fathom the walking lead you've shown.  I don't understand the leg loops, and do you use your normal lead (I use a Halti training lead so I can probably make the extra loops and length...)

I'd like to think I have post Christmas and new year brain fog but I suspect it's just my usual Monday morning state!

PS does anyone cycle with their dog?  I'm not a terribly confident cyclist and may well never go beyond doing my usual 3 mile road circuit for exercise but I'm curious about how to/when to/if to take one of my dogs

Dogs a babe

It's a walking belt with shock absorbing.
No they are not leg loops. The wider part goes round the waist and the other thinner part is where you attach your dog. Can you see the quite large karabiner device at the front? You attach your dog lead to that, the straps that are attached to the karabiner are a shock absorbing device so if your dog does suddenly lunge or something, it will take the initial jerk away to a degree.
I got a longer lead from Indi dog which has a slider on it so it can be shortened or lengthened as required.

Hope this makes a bit more sence to you. :-)

I run a couple of my show dogs... I run about 40 miles a week myself and will run the dogs up to 10 miles a week (though usually 3-5). I put the dog on a harness with high vis tape on the straps, tie poo bags to the harness and then just use a normal 4-foot lead. The reason I don't put anything around my waist is that if the dog stop suddenly or pulls in another direction, it could pull my back out or knock me over. I would much rather have the lead in my hand and kept fairly short so I know that the dog is totally under control and in sight. Also means I can easily make sure they are not limping, dehydrated or exhausted.

Thanks Jodi - the listing for the walking belt gives leg loops  as an option for £3 each.  I wonder if they are for the human or the dog!!

Don't notice that, must be something that's new for this belt as they weren't available when I got mine.
Leg loops are for human.:-) :-)

I think the serious types use leg loops not actually sure what they are for however.

I'm another that runs with their dogs.  I just use ordinary leashes tho as I don't want to be pulled over or anything but now, after a year of running with me, mine doesn't need a leash any longer.  I unintentionally trained her perfectly!lol
But I prefer trail running where I can take them all off-leash :)

This one doesn't attach to waist but I really like it. http://www.k9active.co.uk/jogging-leash-by-hurtta/

The handle goes on your hand and your thumb goes through the hole.