The Secret Life Of… the dog runner. Milo Royds loves his job

Meet Milo Royds, the man who runs with the hounds

All dogs should run

‘It started just over three years ago, when I was working in a dog daycare centre. I could see how little exercise the dogs were getting at the centre. I also noticed in parks that dog walkers often just stand there and while some dogs naturally run around by themselves, quite a few just sit there. So I decided to start my own business.’

It’s the greatest way to start the day

‘I have never been a competitive runner or anything. I ran a bit of cross-country at school and then I went away on an Outward Bound adventure course in South Africa. It was quite a regimented seven months. You wake up at 5am every morning and you go running up in the hills in Modjadjiskloof, which is in the north of South Africa. That’s when I realised I really get euphoric from running. Starting the day with a morning run couldn’t be better.’

Running with a pack is exhilarating

‘I’m often asked about the challenges of the job. The only bad thing about running with dogs is if the dog runs off to sniff at things or to chase other dogs or people – but that’s just dogs being dogs. The best thing is when I have three ridgebacks and a labrador by my side – which is most days. It’s pretty awesome running with them. It’s like running with a pack of wolves. You can see how happy they are and it’s great just knowing that they’re getting the right amount of exercise.

They get this pack mentality when they’re running. It’s so different to walking. When they’re walking, they’re sniffing around, playing with each other, using all their senses and having fun. But when they’re running with you, they change. They’re much closer to you and it’s a team. It’s a pack. They’re either running just in front of you or just behind you, or to the side. You’re surrounded by these amazing animals and it feels like you’re protected by these four dogs.’

Even corgis can do it

‘I always meet the dogs beforehand and they do a trial day with me, and then we take things from there. Dogs are dogs, so you’re always going to have some problems now and then. I’ve had problems with dogs who won’t run. Some just have no interest in it. But I ran with a corgi this morning – it wasn’t the fastest run but his stamina was incredible.’

Route markings are overrated (sort of)

‘I organised a charity event two weeks ago, which was a dog-running five miles in Wimbledon Common, and 45 people came. It went pretty well, but because I know the course very well, I didn’t mark it well enough for other people. Some runners got a little bit sidetracked and came to the finish line from different points all over Wimbledon Common! Everyone had a good time and we earned some money for charity, which was the main thing.’

‘ WHEN THEY’RE RUNNING WITH YOU, THEY CHANGE. THEY’RE MUCH CLOSER TO YOU AND IT’S A TEAM. IT’S A PACK’