I think the most important rule of doggy golf is simply this: Don't let your pup distract other golfers, whether it's your playing partners or other players on the course. That same etiquette applies to pace of play, playing music, conversations, etc. - if you're considerate to those around you, everything will work out fine.

Ben took Astrid out a couple days later for another round. He happily texted he joined up with "a nice dog loving 2-some". Golfers are generally friendly people, so it makes perfect sense to integrate man's best friend into the game, too.

Have you ever taken a dog on the course or played with someone who has? Tell us about the experience in the comments below.

Dog or no dog, this should be always be your no. 1 rule in golf - keep up with the pace of play. If bringing a dog doesn't slow up your round, then I say go for it. I don't want to turn your golf course into a defacto dog park, but walking in wonderful natural surroundings is certainly healthy for both humans and canines.

The hardest part of the round was allowing Ben to focus on playing golf without too much interference from Astrid. Somebody always had to be nearby to hold the leash. I almost made a major blunder by attaching the leash to a ball washer as I went to putt, not realizing the post wasn't cemented into the ground. Luckily I caught it before Astrid tipped it over, which could have set her off.

When we did get a little too bold with Astrid off the leash, we did invite a little chaos. She pounced on a couple of putts, grabbing the ball in her mouth. Oh well. Lesson learned. Either Ben trains her not to attack golf balls or he keeps her on the leash at all times.

Astrid is proof that training isn't necessary to be a "golf dog". However, it would be wise to make sure your dog has the right temperament for the course - Do you have a barker, a puller or a dog that isn't good with strangers? Barkers are probably best left at home.

We noticed Astrid would flinch when too close to the loud strike of a good shot. Former GolfPass Managing Editor Brandon Tucker tells a funny story how his dog - leashed to a pushcart - took off scared after a loud noise, leaving a trail of scattered clubs.

Also be sure to bring enough water and treats to keep your pet happy, hydrated and not hangry.

Our doggy round succeeded for two reasons: A, we played at an off-peak time when the course wasn't crowded and B, nobody in our foursome was worried about score or how many holes we played. To us, twilight rounds are just a way to decompress in the middle of the week for some fresh air, fellowship and fun, all glued together by a few swings. Adding a dog into the mix spiced things up nicely. I'm sure it will happen again.