Most dog breeds will enjoy a run, especially with their owners, but you will need specificity to pursue longer runs. You’ll need to find the best dog breeds for runners to have better running experiences.
Today, there are 16 best dog breeds for runners. If you are considering buying a puppy to accompany you on your morning jog, there are plenty of options. If you are looking to adopt, millions of dogs would love to be your new running partner!
However, finding the right one can be difficult if you don’t know what traits to look for in a potential match. Here are the best 16 dog breeds for runners, with some tips on choosing a running buddy of your own!
1. Labrador Retriever
The Labrador Retriever is one of the best dog breeds for runners because they are obedient and eager to please. They will happily run alongside you no matter how fast you go.
They are also great motivators- if you see your Lab keeping up with you, it’ll make you want to run even faster!
When it’s time to cool down, they’ll be right there next to you, panting away. We love the breed because their intelligence means they’re a very easy dog breed to train.
You can teach them all sorts of tricks and commands in just a few weeks. Plus, Labs don’t need much space: all they need is some backyard space and a couch nearby.
2. American Cocker Spaniel
If you’re looking for a best friend to run with, look no further than the American Cocker Spaniel. This dog breed is known for its loyalty, companionship, and love of running.
They make great running partners because they are energetic and enthusiastic but also calm and collected when necessary.
American Cocker Spaniels are also relatively small, so they won’t drag you down or slow you down on your runs. These dogs are ideal and one of the best dog breeds for runners.
3. Australian Shepherd
If you’re looking for a dog that will be your ideal running partner, look no further than the Australian Shepherd.
This breed is known for being active and energetic, and they make great running companions. They’re also intelligent and trainable, so you can easily teach them to run with you.
Australian Shepherds are loyal and affectionate and will always be by your side. These dogs have been bred for their high energy levels, intelligence, and endurance, making them perfect for runners.
Initially, they were bred as herding dogs in Australia but now make beautiful pets too! You may need to improve your training skills before getting an Australian Shepherd.
This breed needs mental stimulation and physical activity to stay happy and healthy. But once you give the right balance of exercise and attention, these dogs will reward you with years of loyal companionship.
If you love taking on long-distance challenges, this dog is for you! These athletic pups are one of the best dog breeds for runners.
4. Belgian Sheepdog
The Belgian Sheepdog is a great running companion for a few reasons. They are even-tempered, so they won’t get too excited and run off-leash. They are also intelligent and easily trained, so you can teach them to stay close by your side while you run.
Plus, they have plenty of energy and endurance to keep up with you on long runs. The Belgian Sheepdog is a perfect running companion for several reasons:
- They are high-energy and need a lot of exercise, so they’ll be more than happy to tag along on your runs.
- They are intelligent and easily trained, so you can teach them to run alongside you without a leash.
- They are loyal and protective, so you’ll always have a running buddy (and bodyguard).
- They have a thick coat that protects them from the elements, making them ideal for winter runs.
- They are relatively calm and quiet compared to other breeds, so they won’t bark or startle runners as they pass by. All these reasons make them fit as one of the best dog breeds for runners.
5. Border Collie
If you’re looking for a dog that will keep up with you on long runs, the Border Collie is a great choice. This breed is highly energetic and intelligent, so they’ll need plenty of exercise to stay happy and healthy.
Border Collie is considered one of the best dog breeds for runners. They’re also great at learning new tricks, so you can teach them to run with you if you’re training for a race.
Just be prepared to give them plenty of attention – they don’t do well when left alone for long periods. One runner even described her border collie as never happier than when she was running alongside me.
6. Dachshund
Dachshunds are great running companions because they have a lot of energy and love to be active. They’re also small so that they won’t slow you down.
Plus, their short legs make them perfect for running on all kinds of terrain. Be careful not to run too fast – dachshunds are prone to back problems.
The Dachshund, often called a wiener dog, is a loyal, playful breed that’s an excellent running companion. These pups were initially bred in Germany to hunt small prey, so they have plenty of energy and stamina.
Dachshunds come in standard and miniature sizes and three coat types: smooth, wirehaired, and longhaired. All three varieties make great running partners, as long as they get enough exercise.
7. French Bulldog
The French Bulldog is a great running companion because of their even temperament and easygoing nature. They are also relatively low-maintenance regarding grooming, which is a bonus.
Frenchies are relatively small, so they won’t drag you down on your runs. And, their short coats mean they don’t overheat quickly.
8. Greyhound
The Greyhound is the quintessential running dog. These sighthounds were bred to chase hares and other small game, so it’s in their nature to run. They can reach up to 45 miles per hour, making them one of the fastest dog breeds in the world.
Since they’re built for running, they have long, slender legs and a deep chest that helps them absorb lots of oxygen.
They’re an ideal breed and one of the best dog breeds for runners. They’re relatively lightweight, making them easy on your joints.
9. Boxer
Boxers are excellent running partners. They are full of energy and enthusiasm, and they love to play. Plus, they are loyal and protective, so you never have to worry about being alone on your runs.
Boxers are also great family dogs, so they will enjoy having a furry friend to play with if you have kids. This is the breed for you if you’re looking for the best dog breeds for runners and family dogs.
10. Weimaraner
Weimaraners are some of the best dog breeds for runners because they have a lot of energy and love running. They are loyal and will stay by your side no matter what. If you’re looking for a running buddy, a Weimaraner is an excellent choice.
In addition to being energetic and loving to run, they are very obedient, and you’ll never find them leaving your side. These qualities make them excellent companions if you’re going on long runs or want a new exercise partner.
The only downside? Their high activity level may mean they need more than one daily walk. If you can keep up with their demands, this dog will be happy!
11. German Short-Haired Pointers
Look no further than the German short-haired pointer if you need a running buddy who will also be your hunting companion.
These high-energy dogs were bred to work all day long. They have the endurance to keep up with you on even the longest runs.
They’re also intelligent and easily trained, so you won’t have trouble teaching them to heel or stay by your side. And when it’s time to relax, they’re happy to curl up on the couch with you for a post-run nap.
12. Rhodesian Ridgebacks
Rhodesian Ridgebacks are the perfect running companion. They’re medium-sized, muscular, and have a lot of energy, and they’re also intelligent and easy to train.
They have a short, dense coat that protects them from the elements. As such, this breed can be found in many hot environments.
Rhodesian Ridgebacks are known as one of the best dog breeds for runners due to their high stamina and resilience. In addition, they enjoy being active on their own time as well! With proper training, you’ll be able to spend hours exploring with your new dog friend.
13. Standard Poodles
Standard Poodles are the best dog breed for runners. They are intelligent, active, and have a lot of energy. They also have a strong desire to please their owners, which makes them great running partners.
Standard Poodles are also good swimmers so they can keep up with you on long runs by the water. This is your best bet if you’re looking for a very athletic dog who loves running and won’t get bored quickly.
14. Vizsla
The Vizsla is a Hungarian pointer frequently ranked as one of the best dog breeds for runners. They are an active breed that loves to run and play fetch and are very affectionate, making them great running companions.
Vizslas require a lot of exercises. They may not be the best breed for those who do not have an active lifestyle. If you live in a warm climate, this is the perfect breed for you!
You will never find yourself looking for something to do with your Vizsla because they enjoy every activity. For example, they love water and water sports such as swimming or boating.
15. German Shepherd Dog
The German Shepherd Dog is an ideal running companion for several reasons. They are high-energy, intelligent, and love to run. They also have a strong desire to please their owners, which makes them easy to train.
They are large enough to protect if needed but not so large that they will slow you down. There are a lot of factors to consider when choosing a running buddy—and one of the most important is breed. German Shepherds are powerful, athletic dogs originally bred for herding and guarding sheep.
Today, they’re still working dogs but also popular family pets. And their high energy level makes them great running partners.
German Shepherds are loyal and protective, so they’ll always have your back on runs (and in life). A German Shepherd is a dog for you if you’re looking for a running partner who will push you to be your best.
16. Cattle Dog
Cattle dogs are a type of herding dog that is bred to work with cows. They are known for their high energy levels and ability to cover much ground.
Cattle dogs are one of the best dog breeds for runners. They are always up for a good run and have the stamina to keep going.
They are also obedient, which means you can take them out on a trail without worrying about them wandering off.
Conclusion
From the high-energy border collie to the low-key basset hound, there’s a running buddy for everyone. Some breeds are better equipped than others when it comes to being a running partner.
However, all dogs can provide companionship and motivation on runs. If you’re looking for a furry friend to hit the pavement with.
