Need a running partner (Dog Question)

*PSA Alert* running ability should only be part of the qualities you look for in man's best friend - but i'm sure you're just looking for advice from people who do run w/their dogs

i think dogs that are bred for jobs like herding or hunting would enjoy running with you and would be able to keep pace with you on a 1/2 hour to 1 hour run. even a mutt w/some type of that breeding in the blood would be a good running partner too.

i run with my english shepherd dog on just about every run i do, he just turned two - longest distance i've done with him is 6 miles. at first he was a pain, trying to "herd" me, nipping at my heels and butt on runs, now he trots alongside, tongue hanging out happy as a pig in mud.

X2 about running alot with "intense" breeds - Bongo (pictured in my first post) is a real pain in the butt w/o getting exercise, if i don't run w/him, he needs a hike in the woods or two brisk walks in the 'hood. but after a 1/2 hr run, he's pretty chill the rest of the day.

we thought 'bout getting a german shepherd, but decided it would be too much dog for us - but they are my fave breed - dad had one when we were young. it was wicked smart and very loyal. 

here's my new running buddy.  If you look closely, you can see her growing!  She's a 10 wk old Australian Shepherd and running with me will be her job.  When the vet tells me she's ready to run of course!

A lot of it's about the individual dog--some are born to run, but most (like humans) can be conditioned to like running. I've seen a running pug, believe it or not! I had a schnauzer mix once that would not get enough on five miles of running a day ... I'm a big fan of rescue dogs (were you planning to get a puppy? Shouldn't run with one until it's done most of its growing, and this can take over a year with the larger breeds). Other breeds you might not think of, like beagles and poodles, can be great runners.

If you're serious about wanting to run with a doggie, it is more than worth your time and money to have a knowledgeable trainer help you select a dog. Make sure you clear with the vet, and like humans, don't tax the dog's joints by having it run a lot all at once--have good walkies and then build up.

Good luck!

LOL--that's my sister's off-the-street dog. It's of a worldwide variety known as a pariah dog ... feral animals that live on the outskirts of human society, often form packs, and almost always are small-medium size with upturned tails and ears. Blond is an unusual color, though.

We went with a Weimaraner but be warned that they need TONS of activity and also need to be included in just about everything you plan on doing. If you stop too fast with one of these in the house they will run right into you because they always have to be involved. She is only about 35 pounds in these pictures and should end up around 55-60 pounds when she is full grown. For now we stick with slow jogs under a half mile but once given the OK from the vet she may be able to outrun in speed and distance.

ALSO...they are very smart. She has already figured out how to gently get up on her back legs and open the doors. Found that one out when she walked up to us with big piece of bark in her mouth from the FRONT yard. Doors have to stay locked now. Have heard stories that if you let them see you open the fridge a few times they will have that figured out as well.

Michael

Click here to see her photo album and leave us some comments.

If you're rescuing, there's lots of greyhounds that need homes, and they're great on running. Also, border collies are great running companions too - but you have to be running regularly - not just on the nice weekends. Otherwise you'll have a bored, hyper, super-energy dog with no outlet for it. That's nothing but trouble for you and the small bits of what used to be your belongings. There are many border collies in rescue programs because the previous owner couldn't deal with their energy level and intensity.

If you get a pup, talk with your vet or a breeder about conditioning. Much like pre-teen athletes who get hurt doing too much too soon, you can cause permanent damage if you overdo  the endurance activities before the pup's growth plates have closed (10-14 months depending on the breed). Like people, they have to work up to distance and speed.

Here's a link to check out: Canine Sports Lots of good info there.

Wow! She's a beauty! I've always wanted a Weimaraner!

Cocker Lab.   His PB is 21 miles a couple years ago during my training for a marathon.

Lovely pics...so many beautiful and great-sounding dogs here!  I did read the words of caution about the poor pup with parvo and still want to encourage people to look to rescue dogs first before going to breeders.  I know that second-hand pets have their risks, but the need for homes and the fact that there are some real gems (dogs and cats alike!) just waiting for adoption makes me sad to think that breeders could be the preferred 'outlet' for these precious pets. 

And once you do get a running partner (or cat to cuddle) please don't forget to get them spayed or neutered.  It really helps everyone in the long run, and isn't that expensive.  It's just the right thing to do. 

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Labs get my vote,, My black lab is a great running buddy,, except when he decides to stop, it's like an 85lb anchor. during the summer heat I don't take him out with me as much, nothing over 3 miles.. he had run up to 9 miles with me, but I usually draw the line around 6miles.. he will run forever just to please me and literally run himself into exhaustion if I don't keep a close eye on him .

We have Sam the Catahoula leopard dog, state dog of Louisiana. She loves t run in the cool weather. She slows way down in the heat. She has five 5K's under her collar. We definitely are goin to register in one some day. Most the time she runs with the wife. She gives us dirty looks when we don't take her.  That is a picture of her size and similar coloration, she is pictured on the left.  Well a picture of her nose.