Best Dog Breeds for Active People | Athletic Dog Breeds

If you’re an active person who likes to jog, run or go for long hikes, certain dog breeds will be better able to accompany you than others. Besides the fact that certain dog breeds are better able to keep up with your active lifestyle, it will be a win / win because quite often, these dogs have the need of burning quite a bit of energy a day, which will be accomplished with you during your exercise. If looking for the best dog breeds for active people, we can help.

Size, age, health status and breed of dog generally influence the amount of exercise a dog will need. Pick the right dog breed for your active lifestyle, and you’ll never hear your dog complain about being exhausted. Quite the opposite, your dog will jump with joy at the idea of going on these invigorating outings with you, especially because they get a runner’s high, just like you! 

Walking, jogging, biking, hiking and playing Frisbee are all fun workouts you can enjoy together with your pup. If trying to find which would be the best dog for you active lifestyle, here are some of the best dog breeds for active people:

Labradors Retrievers

Labrador Retrievers are among the most popular dog breeds in the US. Their enthusiasm for outdoor activities make Labrador Retrievers the perfect companion for anyone with an active lifestyle.

Labs are strong, active dogs with a lot of energy to burn. They need regular exercise and activity in order to be completely healthy. Happy to play fetch, go on one hikes or keep you company on a run, Labs thrive off of physical activity.

Thanks to their lean bodies, Labrador retrievers are able to endure long-distance exercise, such as runs around the neighborhood. They also follow directions very well and are an extremely obedient breed, making it easy to have them follow your lead when out and performing exercise. Weatherproof and also happy to be in the water, there are no limitations to the type or timing of exercise you decide on with your Lab pup.

Siberian Huskies

Originally bred to be sled dogs, Siberian Huskies love to run and can cover extremely long distances without growing tired. The definition of endurance, Siberian Huskies will spend hours outdoors with cool enough weather. During the summer, make sure you give time for your Husky to cool down in order to prevent overheating.

Capable of running the entire Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race distance — 938 miles — Siberian Huskies are without a doubt one the best dog breeds for people with an active lifestyle.

Dalmatians

Runners by nature, Dalmatians have a long history of accompanying firefighters and working as “coach dogs”, who would run alongside horse-drawn carriages for miles. Super protective, Dalmatians make great companions for solo hikers, and it’s endurance makes it a great running companion.

If Dalmatians can keep up with horses, they can keep up with you, making them an excellent choice.

Terriers

Terriers include some of the smaller breeds capable of going on long adventures. Almost all breeds of terriers are up for physical challenges. In fact, taking your Terrier along with you for a jog might be doing you both a favor, as Terriers may end up eating your running shoes if they don’t get enough exercise.

Doberman Pinscher

Doberman Pinschers may have intimidating reputations, but in reality, they are affectionate and friendly dogs. They do, however, make some of the best dog breeds for active people, as they are muscular dogs that possess endurance and speed. Dobermans are fearless but obedient, up for jogs and hikes, and very low-maintenance.

A properly bred and trained Doberman will not only be your friend and guardian, but has the intelligence and ability to absorb and retain training, which has made them one of the most popular police and war dog choices throughout history.

Boxer

Boxers are playful, lovable, and sometimes hyperactive. They can make great family dogs, but need structure and exercise. If your boxer is well socialized, doggie daycare is a great option for them to burn energy. However, if you’re an active person as well, then just bring them along for your walks / runs!

Play fetch, take them for long walks, or get them involved in dog sports like flyball! Athletic by nature, they’ll be great at it!

Australian Shepherd

Originally a herding dog, the Australian Shepherd is protective, intelligent and loves to keep busy with some activity.

From running to playing with loved ones, the Australian Shepherd has tons of stamina, and can perform long-lasting activities such as long distance runs. They are also naturally curious, so enjoy exploring new terrains and meeting new people. 

German Shepherds

Another herding dog, the German Shepherd is full of energy and enjoys playtime, exercise and sports. Vigorous workouts or long endurance training will both bring joy to your dog.

The minimum recommended amount of exercise a German Shepherd requires ranges from 30 minutes to 2 hours, according to different sources. However, one thing is for sure, German Shepherds need to burn energy. So if you’re getting ready for your daily run, bring your pup along and it will be a win/win. One of the best dog breeds for active people — not so good for couch potatoes.

Standard Poodles

While depicted as “uppity” in movies, shows and the media, the Poodle is actually far from it. This breed is one of the best companions for active owners. Poodles have very high levels of energy, positivity and charisma. Besides their energetic nature, Poodles are extremely intelligent and obedient, making them great to bring along on outdoor adventures.

If you're looking to begin running or want to bring on a new running partner, Poodles are a great option as they can go the distance.

Looking For Your Own Running Companion?

Dogs being dogs, you'd be hard pressed to find one who doesn't enjoy playing outside. But if you frequently take long hikes or beach runs, then the above mentioned-dog breeds will make the best companions.

And if in the South Florida area, we have all of the above-mentioned breeds of puppies for sale at our Forever Love Puppies locations. Come find your perfect running partner!