Running With the Dogs

What is the best breed of dog to run with every day? So many breeds and mixes would thrive on a 30-minute daily run that it's actually easier to rule out those that aren't as suitable. The toy breeds or heavy giant breeds wouldn't be your best choice, nor would such short-legged dogs as the basset hound, dachshund or Welsh corgi. Dogs with short faces don't do as well exercising on warm days, so you might want to rule out the boxer.

If safety is an issue, you might want to consider a breed that would -- by looks alone -- give a would-be attacker a pause. In this category, place the Doberman, Rhodesian ridgeback and the German shepherd.

If responsiveness is what you're looking for, some of the breeds that are easier to train include the border collie and golden retriever. A breed that was born to the road is the Dalmatian, a dog that was developed to run alongside a horse-drawn carriage.

If you do choose a purebred, be sure to buy from a reputable breeder who has certification that the parents are free of hip and elbow problems and crippling congenital defects that will doom your dog's future as a runner. X-rays or verbal assurances aren't enough. You must see certification from the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (OFA) or from the University of Pennsylvania's Hip Improvement Program (PennHIP).

Don't push a pup into running. Work on his leash training as he's growing, but give his bones a chance to get fully developed before putting any roadwork on him. Better yet, look for an adult dog who, with a little training, can get immediately on the road with you.