23 ideal dog breeds for runners

2024 Author: Malcolm Clapton | [email protected]. Last modified: 2023-12-17 03:44

All dogs love to run, but some breeds especially. In addition, not all dogs can run long distances, over rough terrain, in hot or cold weather. A life hacker will help you choose the perfect four-legged running partner that will withstand your workouts.

Some breeds, like the Husky and Greyhounds, are just made to run. Also, for most working breeds, running is a natural activity. At the same time, soft-nosed dogs such as pugs and bulldogs will not be able to run long distances due to overheating.

So if you want to run your dog for a long time, go jogging during a snowfall, or train on rough terrain, some breeds have advantages over others.

Lifehacker gives advice from experts: professional dog trainers JT Clough and Bryan Barrera, certified zoopsychologist Karen London, as well as members of the American Kennel Club.

Weimaraner

Suitable for: long, measured runs, fast running, workouts on rough terrain.

Weimaraners are of medium build with well-developed muscles, which makes them excellent running partners.

"Dogs of this breed need a lot of physical and mental stress," says JT Clough. "The Weimaraner loves to be close to the owner, so he will be a good companion when running."

Shorthaired Pointer (German Pointer)

Suitable for: long, measured runs, fast runs, workouts on rough terrain.

With impressive energy, this intelligent hunting dog is capable of withstanding any run.

“They are fast and hardy runners. They run very fast at maximum speed, and their body structure allows them to withstand long distances,”says Brian Barrera, founder of D. C. Dog Runner.

Hungarian vizsla

Suitable for: long, measured runs, fast running, hot runs, off-road running.

Clough argues that representatives of this breed are just bundles of energy that need to be trained for at least an hour every day.

“I would say this is the best dog for any type of running,” adds Barrera. - They are just universal. Due to the long stride and the ability to run for a long time "on autopilot", these dogs can cover huge distances."

Parson Russell Terrier

Suitable for: a long, measured run.

Also known as Jack Russell Terriers, these little dogs are very playful, agile and energetic. “These are hunting dogs, so during training, make sure the dog runs alongside you, rather than prowling around, tracking down prey,” advises Clough.

Greyhound

Suitable for: fast running for short distances.

Greyhounds are known for their speed on the race track, but in real life they are independent and affectionate pets. They love to run with their owner, but not for long distances.

"Greyhounds are really sprinters, so don't force such a dog to travel long distances with you," says Karen London.

Pitbull

Suitable for: fast running for short distances.

The Pit Bull is the generic name for breeds such as the American Staffordshire Terrier and the Staffordshire Bull Terrier.

They are smart and often underrated dogs that can be very enjoyable to run with when the pit bull learns not to pull on your leash while jogging.

“They don't rise very high above the ground and run great short distances,” says Barrera. "One of the few dogs that shows that they try as hard as you do while running."

English setter

Suitable for: fast running for short distances.

In the American canine club, the English Setter is called "a harmonious hunting breed that combines strength and endurance." Setters are also very active and love to play.

Golden Retriever and Labrador Retriever

Suitable for: fast sprinting and long, slow running.

Yes, they are different breeds, but they have similar running abilities. These friendly dogs tend to get along with everyone, and their large body allows them to cover considerable distances.

“They are easy to train and very loyal companions. The retriever will be a great companion at any distance,”says Clough.

Beagle

Suitable for: fast running for short distances.

These dogs are more inclined to sprint than slow jogging. They are very active, fast and need exercise.

“If such a dog has a hunting nature, it can run longer,” says London.

Dalmatian

Suitable for: long, measured runs.

London claims Dalmatians are ideal for long-distance running and exercise.

“Because of their large size, Dalmatians can injure their legs when running on the road, so it is better to choose soft paths for jogging,” advises Barrera.

Rhodesian Ridgeback

Suitable for: jogging in the heat, a long, measured run.

A strong breed that requires exercise.

“Dogs of this breed tolerate heat well, so the Rhodesian Ridgeback can be an excellent running partner in warm climates,” says Clough.

Barrera adds that these dogs have a natural movement pattern and "internal drive" that allow them to run longer.

Fox terrier

Suitable for: running in the heat.

They are friendly, lively and energetic dogs. The American Kennel Club advises to start training the fox terrier early, because the dog will willingly run away in search of adventure if you let it off the leash.

Malamute

Suitable for: running in cold weather.

The stocky build and thick fur make the Malamute an ideal runner in the cold. Bred for sledging, Malamutes love physical activity.

German Shepherd

Suitable for: running in cold weather.

Barrera trained with three German Shepherds: they were different in character, but they all loved to run.

"Enthusiasm, quick wits and a need for exercise make this breed a great choice for joint jogging," adds Clough.

Greater Swiss Mountain Dog

Suitable for: running in cold weather.

The large and calm Mountain Dog is an excellent family dog. This breed is bred to work on the farm, so they love exercise in the form of short runs.

Siberian Husky

Suitable for: running in cold weather.

These working dogs with fast and light feet enjoy any activity.

“Very athletic dogs, they work best in cold weather, but also do well in the fall and spring,” says Barrera.

Border Collie

Suitable for: long, measured jogging, jogging in cold weather (but not in snow).

They are very mobile and active dogs. Running with a well trained collie is a real pleasure.

Their thick coat helps them tolerate cold well, but snow can get stuck in the fur, causing the collie to freeze.

Belgian shepherd

Suitable for: fast, short runs.

Dogs of this breed have a lot of energy that can be spent on jogging of different types.

“They are highly trained dogs, but may bite at first - a side effect of their herding purposes,” says Clough.

Pharaoh Hound

Suitable for: fast, short runs.

Although dogs of this breed do not need to travel several kilometers a day, they do need some physical activity, and running is fine.

“They are great,” says London. "I can't even let them set the pace because they want to run faster all the time."

This is a hunting breed, so be careful: untrained dogs can chase small animals.

Portuguese water dog

Suitable for: cross-country running; long, measured runs.

The American Kennel Club reports that this breed is very affectionate, energetic and adventurous.

“They are working dogs and they treat running like a job: they put their heads down and run long distances,” says Barrera. As the name of the breed implies, a little dampness under the paws will not hurt them either.

Australian Shepherd (Aussie)

Suitable for: cross country running.

“The Australian Shepherd I ran with was the fastest and most confident runner I ever trained with,” says Barrera. These dogs are very energetic and will run all day if you let them.

Catahula Leopard Dog

Suitable for: long, measured runs.

This breed is the official symbol of the state of Louisiana. Providing these dogs with enough exercise will make them fairly calm companions.

Common poodle

Suitable for: long, measured runs.

“They are very playful,” says Clough. "If you are bored while jogging, this dog can keep you entertained."

“Leash training is also necessary, and poodles will perform well on rough terrain, such as overcoming a shallow stream,” says London.

This concludes the list of ideal four-legged running partners. Do you run with your dog?