Running with a dog could be your answer to developing a running routine. There are many dogs that make great training partners. They don't complain, are always excited to go running with you, are reliable and on time.

If you don't have a dog I have several recommendations. Your local Humane Society has many dogs looking for a partner or the American Kennel Club, (AKC) lists hundreds of breed rescue groups from which to find a great running mate. Barrowing a friend's dog with some running experience can be a good place to start too.

So how do you pick a breed (or a mix of breed) that is right for you? Dogs from the sporting, working and herding groups are bred to be active both mentally and physically from exercise. According to veterinarian Dr. Ann Cavender of Salem Vet Services, "dogs that have a job tend to be less destructive and develop fewer behavioral problems. Larger Terriers such as Airedales, Kerry Blues (that just won the best in show at the Westminster Dog Show in New York City) and soft-coated Weimaraners are good choices. Dalmatians and Standard Poodles from the non-sporting group are great for running too." Larry Newman of the Bars Running group has run up to 20 miles with his German short-haired pointer name Pre. While Rocket Dog club member, Bart Gregoroff often logs in 10 miles with his cocker spaniel named Sergei. An AKC poll of its members listed the Labrador, Golden Retriever and the Border Collie as its top three choices.

The length of a dog's legs doesn't necessarily determine the best runner. A dog with a long nose may help it to breath easier. After walking many dogs as a volunteer at the Humane Society I found that dogs vary quite a bit as runners. Some are speed demons and pull you along, others look like they are working hard where some just seemed to lope along effortlessly at whatever pace you choose.

It's best to get your dog a physical before beginning an exercise program. Get the cardiovascular system and joints examined and the Vet's recommendation based on the dog's specific build. Dr. Cavender suggests checking the heart for congenital or acquired diseases as well as orthopedic problems in the hip or elbows that might impact the dog's running ability.

Younger dogs may adapt more quickly to a running regime but wait until they are about one year old so their bones and joints can take the stress. Start your dog's exercise program by alternating a little running with a lot of walking. 20 to 30 minutes every other day until your dog is in good shape. Let the dog drain itself and don't feed it large meals for several hours before a run.

Start each run slowly. Remember a dog doesn't cool like you do and is always wearing a coat. On warm days spray your dog with water and watch for signs of tiredness or excessive salivating. Pay attention to the dog's recovery time. If he pants excessively or appears a little stiff, decrease the speed or distance. Like runners, dogs need rest days. Two short runs may be better physiologically than one long hard workout. Exercise mornings and evenings in hot summer months. Offer reasonable amounts of water after exercise to avoid vomiting the excess. Also, sunscreen on a light colored dogs nose can prevent sunburn.

Avoid running on concrete sidewalks and streets. Trails are great but make sure its toenails aren't too long. Dogs lack the cushioned insoles you are used to. Its pads will thicken, usually over 6 - 8 weeks of running. Boots can be worn to protect the pads and rinsing its feet after a run in the snow will remove irritating salt.

Older dogs need more rest and injuries need longer recovery time. Stifle (knee) injuries are most common in overweight and under conditioned dogs. Fit dogs are more alert and content. They will sleep better and have more energy.

Make sure your dog has identification and is licensed while you run. Reflective collars or a small flashing light can be helpful at night or when morning sun hits oncoming traffic in their eyes. A dog shoulder harness may be easier on a dog than a leash. Either are a must when running in suburban areas. Stay away from choke collars for running. There are some hands free leashes available but I would be very confident about your dogs running behavior before using one. Dr. Cavender suggests training your dog to run on a slack lead to avoid pulling the collar and collapsing the trachea. Newman suggests keeping your dog on the left side of you, providing enough leash to keep its rhythm but close enough that you can prepare for a sudden stop.

Many dogs are extremely loyal to their owners. They will follow without complaint no matter how much they hurt or need to stop. It's up to you to protect your dog by knowing its limits. And don't forget the poop bag.