RUNNERS and their four-legged friends can take part in a dog walk with a difference.

Southampton Dog Jog will be returning to the city for people to get fit and have fun with their beloved pet.

The event is a fun 5k jogging event for canines and their owners.

It takes place from 2pm on the Common on August 18 and is a non-competitive event that lets pooches and their human companions get together en masse.

Staff and residents from Southampton’s first entirely pet-friendly apartment community are lacing up their trainers to take part in the unusual event.

Residents and staff from Bow Square are taking part to shine a light on how having a pet can build bonds across Southampton.

Community director Adam Dale, who is taking part as his alter ego ‘tutu man’, said: “We’ve seen first-hand here at Bow Square how having a pet can bring people together.

"Being a completely pet-friendly building, we’ve seen residents establish friendships over their common love of dogs.”

Bow Square team member Cody Topley, who owns a chihuahua, added: “Sometimes dogs can be a real ice-breaker in helping neighbours start a conversation and getting to know each other.”

Bow Square is an apartment community that is entirely pet friendly, meaning every single apartment is available for renters to live with their cats or dogs.

Dog Jog is an event held all over the UK for humans and their dogs to either raise money for a cause or simply just to get fit.

At the finish line runners will receive a fantastic Doggy Bag jam-packed with goodies for both you and your four-legged friend, as well as Dog Jog collar keyring medal.

The event is held in 20 different locations across the UK and each event offers a relaxed, fun atmosphere with no times and no pressure.

People who wish to take part can sign up at www.dogjog.co.uk.