Brooks Run Happ(il)y

Brooks is an athletic company known for running shoes and apparel. Their slogan is simple: run happy. (Really it should be happily since it's describing a verb, right language gurus?)

But for what it's worth, I believe their slogan. We have a Brook, and she truly runs happ(il)y. In fact, I can think of nothing that excites her more (except for maybe Wubba and peanut butter) than the joy of going for a walk or run.

Dog ownership has taught me a great deal thus far, and I believe there's another lesson to be learned here. I want to view every run as a most exciting event (even the speed workouts that I hate!). I want my ears to perk up and my eyes to get big when I hear mention of running. It's all about a change of attitude.

While we're en route, Brooklyn never backs down. That girl would run six-minute miles, if I could keep up - I'm sure of it! As it is, I can't do that, and it wouldn't be good for her bone and muscle development just yet either. Regardless, she has the time of her life!

Example:
Today on our run, she found a water bottle in the street. Without slowing, she grabbed the bottle and continued on proudly for the final 1/4 mile. It was all one big game to her, and she delighted in every step.

Happy to be outside after too many hours in the crate. She's smiling, no? :)

Sometimes I practice training with her while we're out and about, because the distraction levels are so much higher. It's good to exercise her intellect, too!

I need to stay focused, too! When I get to mile 20 in that marathon, it's going to be a mental fight to the finish.

Practicing wait commands

Like all good athletes, Brooklyn knows the importance of hydration. Upon entering the house, she immediately slops down a bowl of water. Actually, she slops about half of it on my kitchen floor and then waits for a refill.

Post run, waiting to go inside!

It's no secret that I love being a Weim owner. This is one more reason why! She gets me moving and keeps me active and focused. Thanks, Brooklyn! Can't wait until you're big enough to help me on my long runs. I know you'd do it happily!