10 Dog Breeds for Every Type of Running Enthusiast
Selecting running dog breeds that’ll make a good companion for your morning runs or weekend hikes is no easy job. Just because a dog looks energetic doesn’t mean they’re up for the task.
To help you make a more informed decision, we’ve compiled a comprehensive list of the best dog breeds running.
Keep reading to figure out which dog breed will keep pace with you.
Dogs as Running Companions
Are dogs good running partners?
Yes, many dogs are good running partners.
But how much a dog can run without over-exhausting itself varies according to the breed. Medium-energy dogs are generally good for a 5K training run, while high-energy dogs can go further. Low-energy dogs might run once in a while and only short distances.
That’s not all.
You will also need to consider the dog’s age, tolerance to weather conditions, health, and many such factors when finding the best running dog breeds.
Here are some important things to consider when finding a running dog breed:
- Never take puppies or senior dogs for a run
- Confirm with your veterinarian if your dog is ready for the intended running workout
- Avoid running on concrete or blacktop until the dog is 18 months old
Make sure to also follow up with a good diet post-workout. It’s important to look up information about your dog breed’s diet, such as “What are dogs allergic to”, “Can dogs eat Clementine”, etc.
Getting the right running dog breed is crucial not only for the owner but for the dog’s health as well.
Not getting enough exercise can be detrimental to the dog’s health and well-being, often leading to obesity and other diseases. This means you will have to commit to ensuring the dog spends its energy according to its energy levels.
Think you’re up for the challenge?
10 Dog Breeds That Can Be Your Ideal Running Companion
Check out some good dog breeds for running partners of every type.
- Weimaraner
The Weimaraners top the list of best dog breeds for running because of their high energy levels and excellent build. They are active and will thrive with daily sprints in the schedule.
The Weimaraner has a short coat that helps keep them cool on runs in warmer weather.
If you’re an advanced runner and prefer going long distances with a steady pace, the Weimaraner is perfect for you.
- Vizsla
Vizslas easily make some of the best dog breeds good for running. They have high-energy needs that require at least an hour of vigorous training outdoors.
They also have a long and quick gait that helps them keep up with the fastest runners. Vizslas have short fur, so they’re more comfortable in warmer climates.
Here’s what dog owner Phil Warton notes about his exercise routine with a Vizsla,
“The ones I have had require several hours PER DAY of intense exercise. Constant wind sprints for hours. Hours. Not a walk to the park to play with their buddies and back. But a dedicated outing to the beach or to a large open area with the specific intention to get them to run as hard as possible for as long as possible.”
- Dalmatian
Dalmatians are one of the best fast running dog breeds for long-distance runs. They have great stamina and can thus keep a steady pace with you. They also love to exercise and are easy to train.
Warmer climates are best for dalmatians.
You might want to choose soft trails for this breed, considering their tendency to pound the pavement.
- German Shorthaired Pointer
Shorthaired Pointers are among the best dogs for running with when you want to explore trails. They are steady even on long runs and have good stamina.
While these dogs are hot weather-resistant, they can’t handle temperatures below 45 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Rhodesian Ridgeback
Wondering what is the best dog for a walking companion?
It’s the Rhodesian Ridgeback!
This breed is a distance runner that doesn’t overheat like other fast-running hounds. The Ridgeback is also intelligent, loyal, and easy to train, which makes them ideal for exploring long trails.
- Labrador Retriever
If you’ve only recently begun running, the Labrador Retriever is the companion you need. They are friendly and patient, so they’ll keep you motivated when you’re still working at your pace.
Their thick coats allow them to withstand cold weather better. However, they may struggle to cope in the summer.
- Border Collie
One of the most intelligent dog breeds for running, the Border Collie is an excellent choice for fun-loving families.
Here’s a little tip from Barbara Sykes on Training Border Collies,
“They need some form of exercise every day but it doesn’t have to be at the same time, or for the same length of time, or for the same distance.”
These dogs are fast, energetic, and athletic. They can match your pace and endure both short and long-distance runs. However, Border Collies cannot tolerate cold or extremely hot weather.
- Golden Retriever
The Golden Retriever is a wonderful companion breed for running through crowded parks in the city. These dogs are friendly, so they get along easily with new people and pets.
They can also run long distances and have medium energy. Their cost is longer than some other dogs on this list, which makes them more suited to cold to mild weather.
- Siberian Husky
If you reside in colder regions, a Siberian Husky is your ideal running companion.
Bred as sled dogs, Huskies are perfect for high-energy running. They have high endurance and have no problem plowing through the snow with their double coat.
Here’s how Jim McBee ensures their Husky gets enough exercise,
“We walk every day. Usually a minimum of 45 minutes but sometimes up to 2 or 3 hours per day on the weekends if we go for a hike.”
- Saluki
With a top speed of 42 mph, a Saluki is an excellent companion for those looking for fastest running dog breeds.
Earlier a hunting breed, Salukis are very popular in dog racing today. They are slender, graceful, and suitable for warmer climates.
In Summary
Choosing the right running companion can completely change your runs and elevate them to a whole new level. We hope this list of best running dog breeds helps you find the perfect partner for your morning runs.
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