[mrandrei]

Bulldog?? Kiddin.' I think Border Collies would be perfect.

Graybear, perhaps you should consider other factors in addition to wanting a good running partner. After all, getting a dog is a life-changing event. You'll be doing much more than just running with whatever four-legged friend you bring into your life.

It's not as simple as just buying a Retriever (or whatever) and instantly having a great running partner. You'll want a dog that is capable and happy to run at your pace (and not pull you along), that doesn't get distracted by cats, people, other dogs or interesting smells, etc., and most importantly -- that is a wonderful companion when you're NOT running.

I would not recommend a Border Collie as a running partner. As has already been said, they may be a bit too small for long-distance running. Plus they are extremely intelligent and get BORED easily. (Smiling Mom, that's probably what you're mistaking for a short attention span.) You gotta admit, running at a set pace for a long distance without being allowed to stop and check out all the cool smells and sights might be pretty dull. Running is boring if you don't have music in your ears or interesting thoughts in your head.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Diogi
"A Trained Mutt is a Happy Mutt!"

I understand the standard poodle is a very good running mate.

[wishbone]

Border Collies and Labs are great running buddies, they have good recall.

[rayter]

German shorthair pointer, if you want to improve your endurance!

You didn't say what climate you're running in. If in the South, you have to make sure that the full coated dogs (Collies, Shepherds, etc) won't get overheated. Most hunting dogs love to run. Also, Catahoulas, Vislas, dobermans, whippets, greyhounds are smooth coated and love to run. Go to the dog park and watch which breeds just run to be running. And whatever dog you choose will be one luckly pooch to have someone to run with them. Good luck.

[mrandrei]

Boston terrier is an awesome running partner!

[UnderDog]

Originally Posted by mrandrei

Boston terrier is an awesome running partner!

They are, but they are a flat nosed/short face dog.
Border collie's are good running partners, nice family dogs, GREAT pets, they are good to train because they are clever...but they are VERY clever. Sometimes this gets the better of humans! Also, it depends how far you want to excercise them for and as said, they do get bored easily.
Boxers are pretty cool dogs and running partners aswell, and I fostered a Standard Poodle a while back and, despite being 18 years of age would beg to go running with me! She had a lovely pace and, this isnt important but she was stunning when she was running, a great family dog and loved other dogs and little kids.

I ran 5K with a female boston terrier, though I was running a little more slowly than usual. She was very well trained and stayed right at my heels. She didn't need any water...it was only 25 minutes. She was panting afterwards. We trained on a track.

I don't think you should ever consider running with a dog for a long distance. If you have to give them water, then you're probably making them run too long

Rat Terriors are FULL of energy and mine run with my boyfriend EVERY day. They don't stop, even if they are tired. They just love to play. But make sure you bring water with! Brandon brings the Handi Drink. you can find it here Handi Drink Dog Travel Bowl