WORKOUT -
Ran on TM -
8.15 miles/60 mins
1.0 incline
Xtend barre class -
55 mins
This morning I went to the gym early to run before barre class. Usually I run after, but I needed to be home early for some other commitments so I switched it up.
I ran hard this morning and averaged a 7:21 pace although I stopped a couple times to rest and catch my breath. I finally put a couple songs on my phone so I listened to music instead of the news for the last 15 minutes.
After a 60 minute hard run and 5 min walk cool down, I made a superquick coffee stop and headed to Bri’s 6am class. She worked it out this morning. OMG it was hard. Bri said it was more like a barre bootcamp with a heavy focus on lunges.
I wore my heart rate monitor again today and it averaged 141 bpm just like in yesterday’s Piloxing class. What’s interesting to me is that Piloxing is mostly cardio with a lot of jumping, punching, cardio kickboxing-type moves and barre class is more toning, small movement exercises, but my heart rate was still just as high. Strength training burns a lot of calories!
DOG RUNS
Reader Lisa is interested in getting a new dog and asked me about having a Yorkshire Terrier and if I would recommend one as a pet….
I LOVE MY DOG!! But who doesn’t love their own pet, ya know?
We got Marni about 5 years ago because I wanted a small dog that didn’t shed and I just thought Yorkies were so cute. I don’t know if we just lucked out with a dog with a great temperament, but Marni loves attention and wants to be where ever we are. She even follows me in the bathroom. fun times. We joke that she has total only-child syndrome.
Some dogs aren’t as friendly, but Marni will sleep in the crook of your neck, lay right on top of your stuff or generally just be as close to you as possible. Yorkies are also known to be really loyal and protective.
They can be barkers too though so you gotta work on breaking that. House training also took some time – since we both work from home, we were really consistent with taking her out 1000 times a day until it became a habit.
Although I don’t run much with her and her little legs, I usually take Marni on walks everyday or other day. She’s not super high energy, but she still wants to be outside all the time and can do a 4 mile walk NBD.
Runner’s World has an article on the top dog breeds for running; sadly, Marni didn’t make the list…
{My older brother had two Rhodesian Ridgebacks.}
My dad’s hunting dog Elmer is a German shorthair/wirehair/something, but boy can run. We’ve done 10 miles together and ran a really wet 7 miles on Christmas day.
{instagram: SKINNYRUNNERSR}
I’ve read that dogs are great for your fitness and accountability because they need to be taken out and exercised and they thrive on routines so it encourages the owner to do the same.
Do you have a dog and if so, do you run with it? What type of dog?
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{ 153 comments… read them below or add one }
I have a german shepherd and two long-haired mini dachshunds. One of my dachshunds loves to run (short distances) and go on walks but my other one would rather lay around. My shepherd LOVES to run. The longest I have taken her is 4 miles because I am afraid too far would injure her hips, but she can hang like a pro. She gets crazy excited when I get out her running leash because she knows what is coming. In Alabama we mostly run in warm weather and she has no problem with the heat. I would HIGHLY recommend one as a running buddy.
My doxie loves to run too! It is so funny to watch their little legs run!
I used to run with my Golden Retriever, but never more than a slow paced 5k. I’ll take my mom’s German Shepherd out rollerblading with me. He does a lot of the work.
First dog was a lab-border collie mix. Ran with me a good 10 years, passed away at 14 years old. New dog is a full Border Collie that we got from the rescue group Border Collies in Need. He is mellow and super sweet and loves to run. I would be scared to run with your little dog. I would be scared to give it a heart attack.
I have a Border Collie/Australian Shepherd/ Blue Heeler mix….basically a “herding” mutt that LOVES to run with me. He’s super high energy, so he definitely keeps me accountable. He will sit around and literally sigh at me if he doesn’t get a workout in. Border Collies are on the Runners World list for winter runs/obedient and trails and I would definitely agree with all of those…trail running is his absolutely most favorite thing in the world to do, but he is extremely well behaved (and easy to train) both off leash on trails and on leash in very congested areas. I would also add herding mixes to the long distance category. Indy regularly goes with me on 10-12 mile runs and I’m sure he could hack 15+ if I let him. By the end, he’s usually still rearing to go and wants to play tug of war while I am collapsed on the couch. The only time he struggles a bit is in the summer…we live in DC and it’s brutally humid and hot sometimes, so I either only take him on shorter (6ish miles) runs or make sure that our runs are by bodies of water so he can cool off with a swim.
He is my favorite running partner.
My border collie mix will drop her leash at my feet and sigh at me too if she doesn’t get a run or walk in.
Ha! Doesn’t surprise me!
I need to know what your secret to getting up early is!!
Ramblings of a Suburban Mom
go to bed embarrassing early and set out all your gear the night before. and coffee, lots of coffee.
Wait, you ran BEFORE class this morning?!? Today’s class was one of the hardest classes I teach! Way to go!
That’s cool you got your HR average in today’s class. I bet in the average Xtend Barre class your HR will be around 130-135. Today’s barrecamp had more intense cardio than normal. Can’t wait to see what Saturday’s class averages.
I have a Jack Russell:
“Medium build, well muscles hind quarters, not too heavy.”
That could easily be a description of me in addition to my dog.
hahahahahha!
I have an (almost) 10 year old Border Collie Mix. She has been running with me since she was a puppy. She especially loves trails, and as she has gotten older, long trail runs are much better for her then long road runs (anything over 5-6 miles actually) because she can be off leash and go at her own pace. She is slowing down a little, and gets achey joints if we go to far on the pavement. I do have many people ask how old she is and are shocked that she is a “senior” dog because running, walking, and hiking have kept her puppy-like!
I just want to put Marni in my pocket. She is too cute.
I have a Jack Russell and he loves to run with me, although I don’t take him often because he’s horrible on a leash.
He get’s a lot of other exercise in because he’s a wild man. When people ask me how old he is I tell them 8, they always ask months? Ha nope, years.
I have a Golden Retriever and a Chocolate Lab, both excellent breeds for running. Running is great exercise for dogs, but people need to make sure they’re working with their vets in terms of their dog’s health! Puppies shouldn’t really start going for actual runs until their a year and their growth plates are mostly fused. Both of my dogs like to run but their absolute favorite is swimming/watching me lay out and read.
I have a miniature American Eskimo named Charlie. I run with him a few times a week & he LOVES it. He likes to start out fast & the max he can do is 4 miles running, but he is a great partner. I absolutely adore him & how protective he is of both me and my daughter.
Omg…I feel like everyone is blogging about dogs just to mess with me! I just lost my 8 year old Boston Terrier:( He was mostly just a walked dog but I think I could have trained him to run well with my husband or I!
awh so sorry to hear that! we often say how hard it is going to be when marni passes away. i am going to be broken.
Thank you. He was my first baby and this sucks WAY more than I could ever imagine! **Sorry to be a downer
I’m sorry for your loss Becky. My cats are 14 and I dread the day that I lose them.
Becky – so sorry for your loss. We lost our first dog 2 years ago (General, a yellow lab mix that we adopted from our local humane society) and to this day it had been one of the hardest things I’ve ever gone through. We had him for almost 15 years.
Hugs to you and your husband during this time
Awww! Thank you girls. Y’all are too sweet!
Susan – I have a yellow lab mix named Major that we adopted, and I just gave him a huge hug after reading about general.
Becky -so sorry about your loss.
They are such big parts of the fam.
Aw posts like this make me really sad that I have allergies. I would love a furry running buddy!
I’m generally absolutely TERRIFIED of dogs, but a friend of mine has a yorkie and it really is soooo cute! I still am too scared to touch them, but still, super cute
Hmmm…if barre was at 6am and you ran before that…means you woke up at 4+ am?!?! Wowzers! Anyway, no doggie with me but would like to try running with one; have seen a guy running with his around my neighbourhood during my morning runs; looks like fun for both of them.
Love this post! Thanks for sharing the dog info lady!
We have a German Shepherd and a puggle. They are an odd pair. The shepherd LOVES to run and could easily go on all day. She is a long and slow runner and has done well in the cold of Missouri and the heat of Texas & Georgia (we are an Army family). The puggle on the other hand is pretty spent after a mile. He is made for speed not distance haha. He starts out like a race horse and then falls out.
I have a Shetland Sheepdog and she is crazy energetic. I have taken her on a few shorter runs with me but never tried her longer distance because I don’t want to end up getting stuck somewhere and having to carry her home! The crazy thing is even after a nice run she still has SO much energy! I feel she is a better runner than I am.
No dog yet, but we done our research and will be getting a German Shorthaired Pointer this summer. My girls can’t wait!
I have two dogs, both bloodhounds, and they are not built for running. They are large scent hounds and were bred to go on long tracking expeditions. They can walk (or track) for forever, but don’t ask them to go running, because they’ll just lay down and sleep!
I wish I had a dog. However, I’m not sure I’m coordinated enough to run with a dog.
I have a German Shep and a Golden Retriever. My shep only runs with the chuck it – he’s 9. My Golden whose 2 is lazy and grabs the leash from my when running but he loves to run along side of my bike. I guess I run too slow for him. I’ve also done the ceasar rolling blade with him its a little scary but again he loves the fast runs!
I have a Doberman and when she was a puppy could she kill a 5K (with her dad not me), come home cool down and then beg for another run or play time. Shes 8 now and while she doesnt mind going on a 5K run at a slower pace (9-10 min/miles), she now prefers walks and cuddling.
yay for barre! good for runners. and my dog is a trail runner brat. She a blue lacy and chocolate lab. But getting a little older so an hour is max.
Hope you are well friend! I lost your email. I need it! Need to email you. <3
I have a Yorkie and a Yorkie-Poo. My Yorkie sounds a lot like Marni. He’s super sweet and follows me EVERYWHERE. Yes, he comes in the bathroom, too! He’s a runt so I’d never try to take him running with me but I’m sure he’d be a happy camper if I did. The only thing is that he doesn’t like to be held close. He’s a squirmy little thing! My Yorkie-Poo is bigger, of course, and I’ve taken him 5 miles before. He loves it!
I have a lab/blood hound/something mix. He’s still a pup, so he doesn’t last long, but boy does he love to go running already! His long legs and skinny bod give him some serious speed
He’s definitely my perfect excuse to get off the treadmill and get outside; completely agree furry friends add some accountability!
We have a beagle and she gets distracted while running haha I love that you do so many cross-training workouts! It’s so good for running.
I have 2 cats that barely move from the couch! Great company when I veg on the couch, not so great as running partners!
My aunt and uncle have always had Yorkies. They really love that breed of dog. I know they added a basket to the front of their lawn-mower so that the dog could ride along. And they created a special seat in the front of their RV, so that the dog could sleep or look out the front window. Yeah- spoiled!
I have a 2yr old goldendoodle who is the love of my life. I started jogging with him at 1 yr but now that he is older I think I can probably up the miles with him without fear of doing any damage. We go 3 miles outside now cuz that’s all I can take in the cold at a time but once spring hits we’ll turn it up. He’s a fabulous running buddy but he does have a ton of energy and requires daily exercise at the least. So not for someone who can’t commit to that. He is very handsome too
.
I’d love a little one like Marni for couch snuggling though!
I have a Vizsla and she is a constant ball of energy! We can run ten miles and she wants to go for 284662 more… It’s ridiculous! But they are the best breed EVER and I highly recommend them!
I want a swiss mountain dog, but unfortunately if I get one, it’s going to have to bear with the Georgia heat
We have a Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever and she runs with both my Dad and I and LOVES IT and is super obedient and so sweet! And somehow still has energy to chase a ball in the water for hours a day if we let her!!
We have three dogs (1 purebred yellow lab & 2 yellow lab mixes) but none of them run with us. The purebred – bless his heart – has had hip dysplasia surgery on both hip AND has had knee surgery (ACL) on both back legs. He’s a little delicate to say the least.
Our little guy, Gipper who is a hound-lab mix would probably be a good runner. He LOVES to run around in the house that’s for sure and stir up “trouble” (aka – fun) with the other two.
We do take them for walk. They love them of course.
We have a pointer and she could run forever!! I take her on most runs with me-even long ones!
I have a boxer and a pitbull who are both great running buddies. I only take them out one at a time though…they don’t do well together. I can’t handle the tangled leahes & competitiveness!
I have a 4 month old German Shepard so she is not close to being old enough to run! We live in a warmish area (DC) so I’m not sure how she will handle running when she is old enough. It looks like a Sadie dog is the way to go for running!
We have 4 greyhounds (rescued/retired racers -yay!) and have had a total of 9 over the span of 16 years. Greys are NOT good running companions, contrary to the article posted. They’re very short bursts of energy. My greys don’t even like to go for walks – they like to go outside to pee/poop, do a quick sprint around the yard and come back inside. We have 2+ acres fenced in for them and they never go out of our eyesight, that’s how lazy they are.
The longest walk they’ve ever done is one mile. ONE. And they were whining at the 1/4 mile mark to go back to the car. LOL
my little maltese poodle, gabriella, didn’t make the lists lol but she was named after eva longoria’s character on desperate housewives, so she’s a bit of a diva, not sure she’d want to work up a sweat anyway lol
I love this post. I mentioned it in my last comment but we have a Yorkie too and she’s an awesome dog. She has a great temperament, she was super easy to potty train and loves to sleep and cuddle (which I adore). She does bark at the mailman and when the doorbell rings but other than that she’s such a good dog. Plus Yorkies are sooo cute. I bet Olive and Marni would be good friends.
I have two Pomeranians that LOVE to run! The most that we have done together is 4 but I think my new little guy could do 10 or even a half no problem! People passing by think I am crazy but they love it!!
Love running with my Vizsla Matilda Sloan. She’s the best.
http://www.therightfits.com/2011/11/fit-fanatic-running-with-mans-best.html
http://www.therightfits.com/2012/06/favorite-fit-running-with-your-dog-in.html
oh my gosh, those puppy pictures are TOO MUCH. What a cutie. Vizslas do seem like awesome dogs.
My dog Moose is an awesome runner! He’s a rescue so I’m not sure exactly what he is but he’s a hound mix of some sort. Our longest run together was 13.5 miles during marathon training. But for him it was probably more like a brisk walk
We have a sweet little Morkie (half yorkie/half Maltese). She is 2 and her name is Ellie. I got her when my son joined the army and my daughter left for college in the same year. So depressed. I got a puppy and started running. Saved me for sure.
We have two dogs. A dobie mix and a black and tan coonhound. The coonhound was hit by a car as a puppy and has too much metal in his leg for runs. And the dobie could run all day. But the hound gets so sad when we take one and not the other. So they both get walked together but not separate run time.
The Kidless Kronicles
I have three small dogs but my Jack Russell is my running companion. She’s done up to 10 miles with me and has no problem. She’s 3 years old, so that probably helps – she is a ball of energy. What I love though is that on my rest days she’s perfectly content to fetch a tennis ball for 5 min or an hour – she’s a dog that CAN exercise a lot but doesn’t NEED to.
Dogs are the best running buddies! My German Shorthaired Pointer (Tag) is almost 10 and has been loyally running with me for the past 6 years – we started together. Running has been the BEST thing for him since he has sooo much energy, and our Vet is always amazed at how healthy he is. I’ve taken him up to 15 miles, and I’ve even PR’d in a 10K with him (he loves running fast and is weird about wanting to pass everyone to be ‘in front’)! I love that whether it’s 3 or 10 miles, 4:30 am or 8:00 pm, cold and dark, or even raining…he is always excited to head out with me!
My dog is a very “busy” shepherd/ridgeback rescue mix, 3-4 yrs old. He goes on 3 mile runs with me, then starts to drag so I usually drop him off at the house after that. Running has really helped calm him down, and he gets a lot of compliments on how beautiful (handsome) he is – he has a strong and sleek physique! Wish I could tone up as well as him!
I live in the country and there are 5 dogs from the neighbor’s house that unfortunately follow me on my runs. (Seriously I jokingly call it the puppy parade) One dog i dont mind so much, a blue heeler, is a really good dog. Stays out of my way and I feel like its protecting me. Farthest we have went together is 3.5 miles. Of The other 4 dogs, 2 are young boxers who constantly run in front of me and around my feet, so annoying, 1 Australian shepherd who mostly minds his business but really isn’t one for distance, and one young black lab who like the boxers trips me up and acts like a puppy in general.
I will say though I used to own a black lab and I never ran with her, but she was always wanting to do anything to please me and was great with small children.
No dog yet, but we’re planning to get a corgi once we find a house. By the way, if you don’t mind me asking, what do you do for work? (Besides blogging). I want to transition to working from home but haven’t had much luck in my search yet.
Corgis rock. I have two Pembrokes and they are the best, but not good for running. They can do short bursts but are definitely not meant for long runs. However, if you like to hike, they are awesome companions. I usually run first and then my cool down is taking the boys for a Mile or two walk.
Just make sure you find a reputable breeder who does all the health screening on the adults. Look on the http://www.PWCCA.com for more info.
I got a yorkie in April and he is for the most part so sweet. Loves people and is pretty cuddly and I’m not allergic! And since he’s so small we can take him everywhere.
YORKIES!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Ahahaha, golden retrievers “most obedient on often used trails.” Totally not my golden retriever. I’m glad you posted this, I’ve taken her up to 9 miles but recently decided she maxes out at about 6 miles (just like the chart says!).
My 6 year old Goldendoodle is my favorite running buddy, and she absolutely loves to run. Long runs are no problem for her. And I always feel safer when she’s along!
I steal my sisters black lab for walks and runs. He lovessss it. As do I. I would love a dog as an excuse to exercise but I’m allergic.
I have a black lab, and he LOVES running with me. As soon as I come downstairs in my running clothes he starts spazzing out and following me around. I take him on runs 6 miles or shorter, hubby doesn’t want him on longer ones than that and I don’t know that I would even want to take him because he only has one speed and that is FAST. Its great for pushing myself, but if I’m doing a long run or an easy run he has to stay home.
I have a mutt that we got from Austin Pets Alive!- we think she is part heeler and part german shepherd. She weighs about 60 pounds and loves. to. run.
Ha ha-I’ve tried to take my massive (100+ pounds) monster Franklin running and we just end up tied to each other and one of us (aka me) will fall down. It’s not pretty. So we walk instead! : )
I used to have a German Shorthaired Pointer. I LOVED that dog. What a cuddle bug! Super smart, great runner and loved to exercise. I would play frisbee with her at least twice a day. Just please make sure to build up your dog’s endurance like you would yourself. Dogs want to please their owner and will overdo it. I had to watch my GSP with the frisbee and make her take water breaks especially on warm days.
I have a slightly overweight miniature daschund aka weiner dog. and believe it or not the boy can run. i ran him 5.5 miles at an 8:30 pace. people love to stare at him in his running sweater. total trip. I love to run my weiner. he’s a better behaved dogs because of it.
my little brother has a miniature weiner dog and he really likes to run too! but like you said, he’s always watching the dogs weight bc of her back.
FYI that won’t really prevent a disc herniation.
he watches the dogs weight bc his vet told him to; she would eat until she got sick, threw up and eat some more.
How the HECK do you get up SOOOO early to workout? If i didnt work (not being rude here!) I would NEVER get up that early. Do you take naps? Or do you go to bed really early?! What do you do for the rest of the day since your workout is done?
I already get up at 5 since I have to leave for work at 6:20am…it is the hardest thing ever and I wouldnt ever get outta bed to hop onto a dreadmill -_- Youre my hero.
I get up at 4 to work out pre-work.
I have a black lab and she LOVES to run. She’s slower than me, but she can run for about 12 miles if we do a really easy pace. The only problem is times like now, when the real feel is -15 degrees and I want to run on the treadmill and that means she doesn’t get any exercise.
I would have had to set out a rabbit for my beagle to run. Beagles hate straight paths, too.
I got Angel from the shelter when she was 6, she’s a terrier Mix. Picture a 50 pound Marni with crazier hair. She runs all of my workouts with me except when I’m on the track and loves it. She actually gives me the cold shoulder on when I put on my sneakers for the track and I don’t take her with me. Our normal Sunday long run is 13ish miles and that’s as far as I’ve taken her… but given her excitement over squirrels around 12.5 miles in, I think she can handle much more.
I have two basset hounds. Needless to say they are not running partners. They are barely walking partners. One of the hounds will stop in the middle of a walk, lay down, and refuse to budge. This is referred to as “flat basset”. He is 62 pounds of low lying, full bodied, howling goodness. Said dog must be coaxed out of the flat basset position and bribed with cookies to make it home.
We had a Bassett when I was a kid. Same thing on walks. It was always more of a drag than a walk!
I have some form of a mutt I rescued that I run with (2 years old- we think black lab/coon hound). Longest we have done is 8 miles and she is still insane even after that. I am training for a marathon and wondering when I should “cut her off” in mileage. My family has a 20 lb terrier mix and hes run 10 miles with me. I think any dog can run as long as you start them low and slow
I HIGHLY recommend this canine cardio set (link below) Its a waste belt you can attach your dogs leash to and even store goodies like water, poop bags, etc. Instead of getting my arm ripped off I get pulled up hills. Win Win
http://www.google.com/imgres?q=running+waist+belt+with+dogs+canine+cardio&um=1&hl=en&tbo=d&rlz=1C1SNNT_enUS396US397&biw=1821&bih=857&tbm=isch&tbnid=D0qMSbZqC-c_jM:&imgrefurl=http://www.amazon.com/Cardio-Canine-Hands-Leash-25-34/dp/B002DCFULM&docid=_UXffsQascFW4M&imgurl=http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/21fLNqtv2iL.jpg&w=200&h=200&ei=ZzoBUbuTHLKF0QHU_oHoDg&zoom=1&iact=rc&dur=422&sig=107360922690657164186&page=1&tbnh=148&tbnw=148&start=0&ndsp=55&ved=1t:429,r:2,s:0,i:87&tx=92&ty=37
No dog here – I guess just as well since I tend to run on the treadmill more than anything!
That piloxing class sounds awesome – gotta check and see if we have anything like it around here!
My yellow lab and I were up and out the door for a run every morning at 5:00 am all summer. Sadly, that routine flew right out the window when my daughter went back to school…
My (late) siberian husky could run miles on end with me when it was cold. 10 miles in the snow… no problem!
I need a dog like I need a hole in my head. I tried running with my kids on leashes once though…I got funny looks
ADOPT ADOPT ADOPT ADOPT ADOPT ADOPT There are lots of amazing dogs out there waiting to be rescued and different breed types suit different people types. Best to do your research first but remember don’t believe everything on the internet!
ADOPT ADOPT ADOPT ADOPT
YES! YES! YES!
Adopt! Adopt! Adopt a rescue dog!
We have a black lab. We take her running 5-8 miles on the farm a couple times a week.
I have a Cairn and a Westie, probably a little bit bigger than Marni, but not by much. They are on the 3-4 mile walk every other day plan as well. My Westie could probably run 3 miles 2-3x a week, but my Cairn is a total princess, and refuses. When I visit my parents, I can do 5-7 miles with their Plott Hound and Labs, easy. They’re great partners.
my good friend/neighbor had a westie for 12 years and said it was the best dog ever. when she had to put it down bc of health issues, it was so traumatic for her she didn’t know if she would ever be able to get another dog. (she eventually did though).
Westies can have a lot of health issues develop, especially as they get older. my little dude is 6, and thankfully he has not had any issues develop. they are awesome dogs… he is guilty of following me into the bathroom too!
I have a Great Dane. I think Danes are naturally predisposed to hate exercise of any kind. I can get her to jog for about a mile (well it’s a jog for her, it’s a decent run for me) before she starts looking back at me with that desperate “can we stop now” face that I usually reserve for mile 20 of a marathon. And she’s too big to carry home so I have no choice but to obey!
(a) Elmer is the same kind of dog as my friend has. Great personality, great for hunting, and a beautiful dog.
(b) My dog barely makes it on runs too, with her poor little metal leg!
(c) A Vizsla might be in my future!
I have a Maltipoo that is good for one fast mile then she totally quits. I have carried her home more than once. Friends have a Rhodesian Ridgeback and he’s gone up to 16 miles, great running buddy!
I have a beagle and while she loves to go on walks and check her peemail (ha) she will not run. The only running she does is “running” to the couch or “running” to the food dish.
I have a husky/malamute mix, Sasha. We live in Minnesota, so she absolutely loves running in the winter! We’ve done up to a 9 mile run at 8:45 pace no problem and raced multiple 5K’s together, but she’s almost 7 now and I can tell she’s starting to slow down. Now she’ll average a 4 mile run a few times a week with me. These breeds are unbelievable smart and just as stubborn. But she’s a giant teddy bear
My favorite running buddy is my little dude Chuie – he’s a chihuahua/jack russel/feist smourgasbord of a fluff ball. He’s only 20 lbs but he really works it on our runs together. Haven’t attempted anything longer than 4 miles with him (http://therunningspeechie.com/2012/12/06/thankful-thursday-chuie-runs-heartbreak-hill/) but I think if we run more consistently together, he’ll get better with practice!
Just wondering – how the heck do you get yourself up in the morning to workout? I would love love love to be that person but it takes me like an hour to just open my eyes and figure out my existence in the morning, much less go for a run. Do you have any strategies?
Love your posts, btw.
I have 2 big dogs! 1 is a mutt and shes about 5 years old and looks like a lab/golden retriever mix and then we have a 2 year old chocolate lab pup! Molly (the 2 yr old lab) can run for days and sometimes I run with her, but she’s kind of all over the place so I usually just take them on walks instead of running!
We got so lucky in the dog department too though, we truly have the best dogs ever and they are amazing!
My golden retriever is my most faithful running companion. During my half marathon training last year, he was with me on heavy run up to 8 miles and was a champ. Plus, I like the added security I feel when i have him with me since my routes are typically in rural areas. To clarify, I am a slow runner, I’m talking 11-12 min mile pace on my long runs. He loves nothing more than a nice 3 mile run, or hour long walk. Well…maybe retrieving birds is top of his list, but I like to think running with me is right up there.
I have a malamute, she loves walks and running. Even when I’m putting on my coat to leave for work she thinks its time to go for a walk. I take her running but for no more than 4-5 miles. The first time I tried to run 5 miles, she stopped around 4 and sat down. She wouldn’t move at all! Finally after about 10 minutes I got her walking, pretty sure she had enough. It’s important to mention that if your dog isn’t used to running they have to build up to it just like we do. Also take water! Kia loves when I squirt water in her mouth!
I have two adopted pit bulls and they are both great running partners. My husband and I have both won 5Ks with them but we don’t take them much farther than that. There are lots of adoptable dogs at shelters that would make great running partners!
I don’t have a dog now, but whenever I go to my mom’s I take her Australian Cattle Dog/Border collies out for a 3mile run around the neighborhood. They love it.
I have 2 small dogs. One is a yorkie/doxie mix and is the best dog ever!! She has more of the yorkie look and traits so she acts just like Marni. The other is a Pekingese/ doxie mix and I call her my little personal trainer. She can walk/run for 5-6 miles easily and can do a 5k in 30 mins with her 6 inch legs! I did have to get an okay from the vet before I started really running with her and I would never run her more than a 5k.
I have a 170 pound English Mastiff. He is gentle and careful around my three small kids. He sleeps the majority of the day. Is a huge(pun intended) theft deterrent. But, he won’t run. He’ll run and get excited in the yard but take him on the two mile loop around my neighborhood and by .25 he is dragging at the end of the leash. Mastiffs have been known to lay down and refuse to move!
Sometimes I run with my corgi Henry. They aren’t really built for running so we go 3 or 4 miles at most. It is a good fartlek workout because he will sprint and then stop over and over again. My other corgi is a lardass, so I guess it just depends on the dog
My two corgis are not runners. They sprint and stop and you just cannot maintain a good steady pace for any distance. I am surprised he manages to go a full 4 miles. My two can hike for 8 miles but running, not gonna happen.
My parents have a Weimaraner, and boy do they have energy! But, they can be total cuddle-dogs as well, which is what I love!
I have 2 rescued boxer mixes…they are terrible running partners! One is boxer/pitbull and she does AWESOME running…for 1 mile. But that’s her max lol. My boy is a boxer/bullmastiff mix, and if he looks back and sees me jogging, he thinks he can RUN and drags me down the street. But they are still AMAZING dogs
I used to have a neighbor that had 2 german shepherds that were wonderful running partners. She trained for marathons and could take them on 10-15 mile trail runs without even bringing a leash for them.
LOVE this! I have a jack russell (mix?) and another “pound puppy” that we think is a beagle/pointer mix. Both LOVE to run but people would totally laugh at us when they would see us cresting a hill and my little jack russell leading the way! Our beagle/pointer is an AWESOME runner and though a regular running buddy only just made her official race debut (at age 7) this past fall.
My dog is a mix of Boston Terrier and Pug – they call it a “bug”. He is super sweet and beyond cute, I have said his cuteness saves his life on many occasions. He has the playfulness of a Boston and the cuddle bug lap dog of a Pug. He is much more of a sprinter than a distance runner though. I have tried running with him and even at my slow pace it is hard to get more than 2 miles with him. I took him on the trails with me once and I think he might have died a little that day.
Apparently my catahoula, Bella, missed this article! She doesn’t know how to run slow. It’s max speed for her during the entire run. But she is also a “fair weathered runner,” because currently it is way to cold for her to run outside. My husband did try to teach her to run on the treadmill. Didn’t work out so well
I have a little yorkie-poo (Cooper) who actually isn’t so little – almost 20 pounds. I can’t run around our house with him cause there is just a narrow shoulder, but I do take him down to the High School parking lot sometimes and he loves it. He can go almost 3 miles before he starts really slowing. Pretty good.
Marni is so sweet, I love when she makes appearances on the blog! And I’m very impressed that she can handle a 4 mile walk, that’s a long way for such little legs
I have a little dog Daisy-Pants. She’s a Havanese and even though she’s purebred, she’s bigger than a lot of other Havanese. She’s 18 pounds and she’s the perfect size cause she’s big enough to handle doing easy runs with me, but small enough that she can cuddle up with me. She’s pretty awesome! I love how a dog can totally brighten your day
I grew up with a Rhodesian Ridgeback and she just loved to run. Now I have a Rhodesian Ridgeback mix who is just about 10 months old and she is good for about 3-4 miles now. When she’s done, she is done though so I’m looking forward to when she gets a little older!
That was a cool list!
I don’t have any pets, not really a ‘pet’ person, but I do love horses……
I have the sweetest little french bulldog you have ever laid eyes on! We take her for short runs only (3-4 miles)…her short little legs can’t handle much more!
I have a cat who has only child syndrome too. He’s spoiled rotten and I love it. We live in a town house now and we won’t get a dog until we move into a real house with a yard. I don’t think it’s fair to put a dog in such a small space and not have anywhere for them to run free!
My boyfriend’s parents have two Yorkies, and the older one is SO protective. You have to be in the circle of trust before she won’t bark her face off at you, especially if you go near her while she’s on someone’s lap (that’s her protective stance) – but she is a great dog!
I have 2 peke-a-poos. Best dogs ever. Sweet, smart, no shedding & tons of fun. We walk them alot because they love it so much.
I can’t believe no one has said Brittany Spaniel! My dog, Macy, is a Brittany, and she is the #1 running dog. They are related to German Shorthaired Pointers, but I really think they have more stamina. Macy is a running fiend!!! I run about 5-10 half marathons a year, and Macy trains all the way with me! She is FAST and NEVER gets tired. She has run some half marathons with me (the ones that allow dogs). Her build is medium to small/medium, and they are exceptionally loyal and loving. Macy sounds JUST like Marnie–wanting to be everywhere that I am. I am a little embarrassed to admit it, but Macy even sleeps in the bed with me!!! For anyone looking for a great running buddy and exceptional dog, think about a Brittany. BUT, be forewarned, if you aren’t willing to invest in exercise, they can be whiny, disobedient, etc.
We used to have a Brittany/Golden Retriever cross that I took on runs. He loved it and was a great dog! We moved when he was about 6 and he couldn’t adapt to loving in a small apartment with two small boys so we had to find a new home for him and it was one of the saddest days of our lives. I know it was best for him, but I miss him all of the time.
I have a tea cup chihuaha — he’s the absolute best dog! He’s 5 yrs old and everyone falls in love with him when they meet him. He loves my kids..but loves me the best. He too, isn’t great for running, but loves to go on walks.
I run with two big pups (about 60lbs each). One is part husky, the other a lab mix. They LOVE to run, especially the husky who I’m almost positive thinks I am sled and tries to pull me along. We typically do 2-4 miles a couple of times per week. The other days we walk and they go to doggy day care a couple of times to get out much needed energy.
I second the fact that dogs love a schedule, it makes owning animals much easier!
I have three dogs and run with 1.5 of them. The 0.5 is a little old so he doesn’t go far…but, I also have an extended family of 25+ adoptable shelter dogs that I run with though Miles and Mutts, a program I coordinate to run with shelter dogs…Best. Thing. Ever.!!
Am I the only reader with a dog that won’t run? We have a 3 year old Golden Retriever who loves to run off his leash, but as soon as he’s leashed up and supposed to be running by my side, suddenly wants to stop and sniff something every 3 feet.
My 6 year old golden retriever is much happier off leash, but will run 3-4 miles at a time on the leash. He acts tired if you try to go too fast, which isn’t a problem for me. Goldie pants has always loved to go on runs with me and is an awesome running partner!
I have a small labradoodle named Duncan. He loves to run but I don’t take him more than 3 or 4 miles. And I have to walk him about 1-2 miles prior so he can get all his sniffing and squirrels chasing out of the way. I ran with him and my running group once in Central Park a while back and it was the best. I guess the “pack” of people with us kept him more focused. He loves cold windy days. Hates the warm weather so no running past spring. Great post! I read each reply:) I am dog obsessed!
I have a Shiba Inu (Minature Akita) and he loves to run – he’s meduim build, 30 lbs. He too has the only child syndrome…he thinks all attention needs to be on him and that everyone wants to play with him, it’s hard to get work done with him around, but I do love it when he snuggles right up against me at night time
I have taken him out on a 5 mile run but since he is a hunting dog he darts around when he catches a smell so it can be hard to keep on task with the run. He also likes the cold. I don’t run with him when it’s too hot out but we are all about it in the spring and fall. He does love the cold weather though — it was 9 degrees this morning in KS and he just wanted to run while I just wanted to go back to bed 
I’m floored that English bulldogs (of which I have two at home) aren’t considered good running breeds! Just because they sound like they’re having an asthma attack while sleeping doesn’t mean they couldn’t be good runners.
I try to run with my cat, but he’s more into eating the grass outside then running unless it’s sprints up and down the stairs.
I have a Weimaraner named Bailey. She is an awesome running dog (top of the list whoop whoop). She goes up to 12 miles with me but I haven’t really taken her more than that. I have a belt/leash that goes around my waist that is perfect to I don’t have to hold on with my hands. She doesn’t pull and is a great running buddy.
I think Ridgebacks are the coolest but have never known anyone who has one. Does your brother recommend them for a family dog?
his first one He LOVED. Like first child loved. the second one didnt really compare to the first so that was sorta hard.
I am not a runner… yet. I want to get into running soooo bad, and will work towards it when the weather shapes up (in ND it is -15° [-32° wind chill] today). I have a black lab who loves her walks and would love for me to be a runner too. I have a major case of the guilts for not being in shape enough to run her the way she deserves. Labs = tons of energy! I think we would both love it so much. GOALS!
I have a Siberian Husky and an Alaskan Malamute, both love to run, neither are very cordinated lol! In the summer I have to walk/run with them super early or super late due to the heat but in the spring/fall and especially winter they will go FOREVER. We’ve taken them on entire day hikes, 12-14 hours, once we stop they are OUT but you say the world walk again and they are ready to bolt. Crazies but seriously SUCH affectionate dogs with amazing personalities, I’ve had better conversations with my dogs than with some people, no lie.
I have a Vizsla and he is just awesome! He trained for a full marathon with me and never complained on the long runs
He has a lot of energy but if he gets exercised 4 times a week he is fabulous. He motivates me to get out there! He also has the sweetest “personality”. He loves to cuddle-they dont call them the Velcro dog for nothing!! I would never have anything else!
I have a husky/shepherd mix and he’s great at running as long as it’s not too hot. It really only works when he can be off-leash, because for some reason when he’s leashed, he runs diagonally in front of me. The best is trail running off leash. He finds the trail like nobody’s business and can scurry up mountains a lot better than me! My favorite thing is when he comes back to check on me! Love your blog. I just started running regularly and your blog gives me something to aspire to! Thanks!
we have 5 dogs but my favorite one to run with is my rescue pit meka. we got her from a kill shelter on the day she was set to be killed, and i could not ask for a better dog. she is incredibly smart, incredibly friendly, super cuddly, and all around adorable. she can run f o r e v e r; i took her with me on a 20 mile run this fall (don’t worry kids, i brought water and gu blocks for both of us) and when we got home i collapsed on the couch while she continued to bounce around and play with her brothers and sisters. i wish i had her energy. i also ride horses and i take her to the barn with me, where i taught her how to jump the horse jumps. video here https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?v=10100504854599137&set=vb.600449&type=3&theater
I have a Vizsla and she is the best running companion. She helped me train for a couple half marathons!
We have a dachshund/lab mix (yeah, it’s strange). He’s about 25 pounds, but really solid and has a lot of energy. He can run up to 5 miles at a time. He starts off so fast and then by the end you are practically dragging him. Although, if he sees a cat he’s got the energy back in a second. I haven’t been able to run with him since getting pregnant (he isn’t the best behaved, and we thought it was best not to risk it) and I definitely miss it. It breaks my heart to see him jumping at the door when he sees me lacing up my shoes. Once baby comes, we will all get back out there again.
I love to run with my dog and she sure does love it too! Jeter (I did not name her, I apologize to her regularly for being a girl dog with a boys name) is a side of the road special (at four months old I found her on the side of the road after I nearly killed her with my car) composed of some irish setter and black lab, maybe some other things in there. Your guess is as good as mine. My little pup runs three to four miles with me at a time. I know she could go farther but I am worried about building up her endurance too much – she is a ball of energy that is always ready to play, run, or snuggle. As of right now we do lots of sprints around our apartment complex, or hiking because Ohio is rather cold and snowy these days. But in the summer we run – every day.
I have a 3 y.o. Golden Retriever. He LOVES to run with me, but he loves to do anything with me because he’s awesome. We run the lakes by my house and on hot days we have to stop so he can jump in and cool off. He loves my 5 mile runs, but he comes with when I do 10 miles sometimes too
I have a yellow lab, Duke. He’s a running machine and clearly a smarty because he learned how to fuel up on our runs. We run on a trail that borders an apartment complex and the residents *think* they are throwing out bread for the birds but duke, since bite #1, is conditioned to run the perimeter of the fence scarfing old hunks of bread. I’ve given up trying to stop him. Hey, running makes ya hungry
I have a male Gordon Setter who will be 2 in April. He’s the most laid back, relaxed, couch potato in the world when he’s inside, but I’ve taken him on 10 mile runs without a problem. As soon as he sees me pulling my shoes out of the closet, he starts running around me in circles, and then makes weird, exasperated groaning sounds if he thinks I’m taking too long to get ready. My husband hunts, I run, and we have two young children, so a Gordon was the perfect combination of what we were looking for. We almost went with a German Wirehair like Elmer, but changed our minds at the last minute. If we get a second, I would still want a GWP – Elmer is adorable (so is Marni
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I run with my dog Moose. He is a very tall black lab/great Pyrenees mix and he trots along slowly with me even though we both know he is capable of running much faster!
I’d love to have a dog to run with! Unfortunately I do not have a dog.. yet. I really want a vizsla but I will adopt so I know I can’t get too nailed down on a breed. I just want a good running buddy
I have a “Labradinger” she is a Choc Lab and Springer Spaniel mix. I started to run 1 mile every day with her when she was 6 months old just to ease her into it. By 1 year old she started training for my first Half Marathon with me. She ran up to 12 miles with me during the training the week before my race. It felt weird not having her there with me… She is a medium energy dog and super friendly so, on trails, she can be a bit errrr all over the place but, I can’t say enough how greatful I am to have an Always Willing Running Partner and you are so right about accountability. If we go a couple days without running she is at the door staring at her Reflective vest. <3
I have a Vizsla and I actually got her because I wanted a running partner. I saw that article in Runner’s World that said
Vizslas are one of the few dogs that can train all the way up to a marathon and started doing my research on the breed and I guess the rest is history. I’ve had Ob (my vizsla) almost 3 years and she is without a doubt the best thing I’ve ever purchased. She is so much more than an amazing running buddy – she’s really my favorite companion.
I have a greyhound. She did her racing thing in FL for a few years before we got her and now she is a lazy pup living the retired life. She’s good for walks and hikes up to 3-4 miles. We’ve tried bringing her running but our pace is much too slow for her. She prefers to sprint around the backyard.
I have a standard poodle. As long as she doesn’t get overheated, she can run for days. I love that she is able to join in on the fun.
I mentioned it above, but I have a yellow lab mix named Major. He is a little smaller than a regular lab and only 2 so I have only ever done run/walk intervals with him and only up to 3 or 4 miles. Did everyone who runs serious distances with their pups ease them into it?
Also, my little trouble maker killed a pair of my running shoes in November. Look at his apology face.
https://twitter.com/i/#!/MsKaitlinK/media/slideshow?url=pic.twitter.com%2FsrZuRx4d
My dad has a griffon (same kind of dog as Elmer…and yes the name is like 8 billion descriptive words long before saying griffon and I can’t never remember all of them) named Max. He’s BIG for a griffon and is too much for me to handle when I’m running. We had one before named Karl, and he was about Elmer’s size and much easier to manage on a run. I really wish I had a dog I could run with right now, but living in an apartment in DC that doesn’t seem fair to a big dog. Instead, I’m hoping to get a Westie soon, and maybe she’ll be up for a few short runs
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