Doggie Duathlon: Race With Your Pooch

Sometimes, the best running partners come with four legs. Those of you who routinely run with man's best friend are already aware of this. However, did you know that there are races just for dogs and their owners?

Active.com has plenty of suggestions for races where you can strut with your mutt. All over the country, the Dog Run Dog 10K/5K gives dog owners a chance to cross the finish line with their favorite workout buddies, but there are loads of other opportunities all over the country. If you don't see anything near you on this list, check with your local track club, or with the nearest veterinary medicine school -- they might have more information.

Now, as exciting as this is, you have to remember that dogs are affected by the sun and summer temperatures just as much as you are, if not more (just imagine running a 5K wearing a fur coat!). Keep these safety tips in mind during your training and on race day so that you and Fido both make it safely to the finish:

• Build your distance slowly. Just like you, your dog needs to build endurance. Unlike you, however, he'll probably keep going well past where he should. And keep his health in mind -- dogs with heart or joint problems probably shouldn't do long distances. Check with your vet if you're not sure.
  
• Think about the surface. Surfaces like asphalt get very hot -- if it's too hot for you to go barefoot on the surface, find somewhere else to run with your dog.
• Hydration, hydration, hydration. Get a portable bowl so your dog can drink plenty of water while you run. Make sure you bring enough for you both!
• Be visible. A flashing light on your pup's collar and a reflective leash can help keep you both safe from traffic when running in the early morning or at night.
• Watch for cues on race day. Even if your furry friend has been running like the wind on your training runs, she could change her behavior drastically on race day. Not only are there lots of people and dogs, not to mention fascinating scents, but dogs can sense that feeling of anxiety that we're all familiar with on race day. Remember, it's not a race. Well, actually, it is, but the most important thing is that you have a good time with your dog, not that you come in first.

One final tip (that has nothing to do with safety) -- check out what prizes the race awards. There could be prizes for the dog and owner who are smallest, largest, cutest, look most alike and more!