The ancestors of today’s domestic dogs often ran long distances to catch their prey. Many dog breeds have inherited this stamina and need to run. These are the breeds that are ideal for active people. These are the kinds of dogs that you can take running or training with you or have to take on long walks every day.
So, if you are looking for a dog that would complement your active lifestyle, we have listed down 10 of the best sporting dog breeds. Running and training become much more fun and fulfilling with these dogs by your side.
1. Hungarian Vizsla
A hunting dog; active and loyal
The Hungarian vizsla is an exceptionally active breed. They were originally bred as hunting dogs and they are always eager to run fast. Vizslas need to be given lots of exercise each day and can be the most rewarding dogs for active owners. They are very loyal to their humans, and they make good and affectionate family pets, too. They are somewhat lighter in build, but with a similar physique to Weimaraners and German short-haired pointers. Their short coat may not keep them warm in the cold when they’re not running, so you may want to take a blanket with you.
2. Spanish Galgo
A hunting dog that loves running
The Spanish galgo is one of the fastest and most athletic breeds of dog around, with a physique built for speed and that is quite similar to a greyhound’s. Galgos are bred as hunting dogs for chasing prey, but many of them are retired each year and are no longer used for hunting. The good thing is that galgos still make excellent companions and family pets as they have a good temperament and are generally quiet and docile. They are independent by nature, but also gentle. Individual galgos stay athletic even when they get older.
3. Siberian Husky
Ideal dog to take running in the cold
Siberian huskies and their relative, the Alaskan malamute, are bred as sled dogs and will take on tough terrain in the cold of winter. They have great strength and are known for their running endurance. So, it’s not surprising that they are the main breeds used for long-distance sled races. Huskies have long coats so they cannot run for long in warmer temperatures. They are independent by nature and need good training.
4. Jack Russel Terrier
Small dog that makes a great running partner
Terriers are generally very active dogs, but the smaller physiques of some terrier breeds are less suited for long-distance exercise. However, Jack Russell terriers, with their short coats and exceptional energy, are capable of running long distances despite their small size. Among the smaller dog breeds, Jack Russells make an excellent choice as fitness companions.
5. Labrador Retriever
A sporty and very friendly breed
Labrador retrievers come from a line of hunting dogs that can work all day without tiring. Labs have great stamina when given the opportunity to be active and they are capable of running long distances. They are also very friendly, both to other dogs and humans, and they make wonderful family pets. They like to stay close to their owners and are loving companions. Labs are highly trainable, too, so they are among the top choices for service dogs.
6. English Springer Spaniel
A medium-sized hunting dog; very sociable and affectionate
Many breeds of spaniel are active, but none more so than the English Springer Spaniel, with its long-legged build. English Springers were bred to find and flush out game for hunting, and dogs from a working background are especially active compared to dogs bred for show. English Springers are medium-sized dogs and are very sociable, affectionate, and lively.
7. Border Collie
An intelligent working dog; great running partner
Collies are known for their skill in herding sheep and will work endlessly in this role. They are an exceptionally intelligent breed that also makes good pets. They are athletic and have a very energetic nature. They will make a great running partner, but at a moderate pace since they are smaller than other active breeds. Nevertheless, they will still cover a great distance alongside you.
8. Dalmatian
An exceptional guard dog; always ready to run with you
Dalmatians are a very distinctive-looking breed with those black spots on white fur. They have great endurance as they were originally bred to run alongside horse-drawn carriages for long distances and to serve as guard dogs at night. They have a lot of stamina and they make excellent running companions.
9. Poodle
A small but really active dog breed
Poodles come in three sizes: standard, miniature, and toy. Poodles may not have a reputation as a very active breed, but they were originally bred in Germany as hunting dogs. They are happy to run, swim, jump, and retrieve things. Many active owners find them a great breed to keep as pets. They have a single coat of curly hair that needs regular trimming, especially if the temperature is warm, to keep them from overheating while they exercise.
10. Boxer
An energetic and loving breed
Boxers are intelligent, energetic, and very playful. They make good family dogs because of their good temperament and loving nature. They are also very active and strong, so they are suitable for active owners. Their short hair makes them much better exercise companions in warm areas or during warm weather compared to some sporting breeds. They were originally bred in Germany from ancestral shepherd dogs and are regarded as a working breed.
Dr Peter Messent 27 March 2017