Edinburgh Dog Jog 2016 — A joyous celebration of community, dogs and outdoor fun
Edinburgh — On Sunday, 17 July 2016, Edinburgh Dog Jog brought a burst of energy, laughter and wagging tails to Holyrood Park, as dog‑owners and their canine companions turned out in force for a relaxed 5 km run/jog/walk that was more about fun and community than competition.
The Dog Jog series — including the Edinburgh event — is organised to give people and dogs a chance to enjoy a gentle run (or walk) together, with no timing chips, no pressure to race, and plenty of friendliness.
Despite limited formal data for 2016, event organisers described the turnout as hearteningly strong, with an estimated several hundred participants and their pets filling the paths of Holyrood Park before sunrise. Runners ranging from young first‑time dog‑owners to veteran pooch‑parents came with all sorts of breeds — from tiny terriers to energetic retrievers — showing just how inclusive the event is for dogs of all shapes, sizes and fitness levels.
As the Jog began, the atmosphere was light and cheerful: owners chatting, dogs tugging gently on leads or sniffing curiously at their surroundings, some bounding ahead with excitement, others strolling at a steady pace alongside their human. Many families joined in, with children helping steer leashes and encouragement echoing across the park.
Crossing the finish line, each participant — human and dog alike — was greeted with a “Doggy Bag,” a token of appreciation filled with treats and a quirky collar‑keyring “medal” for the dog, plus goodies for the owner. The organisers emphasised that what mattered most was participation, companionship and giving dogs a chance to socialise — with tails wagging well beyond the finish.
For many, the 2016 Edinburgh Dog Jog served as more than just a morning out: it became a small community festival. Dog‑owners swapped tips on training, recalled funny antics from their pets, and made new friends. Some even spoke of turning the Dog Jog into an annual tradition — a low‑key but meaningful way to mix fitness, fresh air and animal companionship.
One local dog‑owner, after finishing the course with her border collie, said she loved how inclusive the event was: “It doesn’t matter if you run fast or slow, or if your dog is a racehound or a rescue — everyone’s welcome, and that’s what makes it special.” Several others agreed that the event had given their dogs a rare chance to meet and play, and for owners to mingle with fellow pet‑lovers over coffee afterwards.
In an urban setting often dominated by hustle and bustle, the Dog Jog offered a simple — but powerful — reminder of the joy of being outside, the bond between people and pets, and the power of community. As the sun climbed over Arthur’s Seat and the last of the dogs barked happily, organisers hinted at future events, promising more “dog‑friendly” fun days to come.
All in all, the 2016 Edinburgh Dog Jog wasn’t about personal bests or podium finishes — it was about paws, people, and shared moments. And for many of the dogs (and their owners), it was a day to remember.