Selecting a New Running Partner

Like many runners, I'm in constant search of the perfect training partner. My requirements are stringent: my partner has to show up on time for workouts, be enthusiastic about the idea of hill repeats (even at 5 a.m.) and has to listen sympathetically to the latest business crisis.

A runner's worst fear, a dog, can also be a runner's best training partner. A K9 running partner offers many benefits for a runner. A dog adds a sense of security. A dog is always ready and willing to run. A dog never criticizes your running form. A dog does not chatter on about personal problems. A dog does not mind running the same boring route every day. A dog does not complain if you spontaneously change your daily route.

On the dog side, a dog that burns off energy is a happy and good dog. A dog accustomed to a running routine may shame a reluctant partner into a pair of running shoes and out of the door. My German Shepherds often get my running shoes and drop them at my feet, or on my head if I oversleep in the morning, on those days I am less motivated to get out the door to run.

Not all dogs are born to run!. A great running dog depends on three things: genetic temperament, socialization and training. Some dogs are born with easygoing personalities. That's how some people get away without training or socializing their dogs. But if your dog doesn't have the "work" temperament, you've got an uphill battle ahead of you.

The best running breeds include labs, retrievers, working dogs, such as Doberman pinschers and German shepherds, and herding breeds like collies, shelties and heelers. Although breed has something to do with determining a dog's ability as a runner, that isn't necessarily the first criteria. Generally, any dog that's been bred to work athletically and to respond to people is likely to make a good running partner.

Here are some common sense guidelines for selecting a new running partner:

• Carefully choose your breed. All dogs are not created equal. The ideal running dog is medium-built, weighs 50 to 90 pounds, and has short light hair. Greyhounds, Labrador Retrievers, and short hair German Shepherds are good runners. Avoid large dogs like Great Danes, and small dogs like Chihuahuas, since their body proportions do not favor distance running.
• Avoid engineered breeds. The breathing system of Bulldogs is ill-developed and does not permit intense aerobic activity. German Shepherds with very short hind hips can't run with ease and can suffer debilitating inherited conditions such as hip displasia..
  
• Respect the heat. Dogs dissipate heat through their paws and mouths. Long-haired dogs like Chows and Collies have more difficulty in the heat. Plan your running route to allow drinking stops, and let the dog run through puddles.
• Puppies should not run long distances. Wait until the dog is 1 year old to begin running and wait until your dog is two years old to run distances over 5 to 6 miles. Start with half a mile every other day. Increase the distance by 10 percent each week. Give the dog a day off for every day of running.
• Watch the paws carefully. Dogs do not have the luxury of carbon rubber outsoles. Check the paws before and after every run for any cuts or abrasions.
• Run on a soft surface. The best running surfaces for dogs are grass fields and dirt trails. Concrete and hot asphalt impair a dog's ability to dissipate heat through the paws. At the other extreme, frozen roads, ice and salt are harmful to the paws.
• Keep the dog on a leash when running on public roads and trails. It is safer for everyone, and it is the law in many communities. A 6-foot leash gives the dog room to run away from your feet.
• Keep the dog visible to traffic. At night, use a reflective dog harness, a reflective tape the length of the leash, or flashing lights around the collar.
• If you must run on roads, avoid busy traffic.
  
• Train your dog to obey you and ignore distractions. A simple jerk on the leash should bring the dog back to your left side.
• A road race is usually not a safe place for a dog and remember, many runners fear dogs.
• Before including your K9 friend on daily runs, he should be examined by a veterinarian. The exam should include a thorough check of the animal's heart and lungs, joints, and ligaments.