The Best Dog Breeds to Run With
The start of the new year calls for new resolutions! If your NYE resolution was to start running, these furry champions are the best active-lifestyle sidekicks due to their statures, temperaments, and unending energy! Running is a great cardiovascular exercise for humans, plus it stimulates your pet’s mental health and provides an energy outlet. Certain dog breeds are preferred for running versus regular neighborhood walks depending on the breed’s build and capabilities; age is another factor to consider, as puppies shouldn’t be taken on runs until at least 18 months old, or they can risk permanent hip damage. We’ve compiled a list of the top five dog breeds for active runner owners, always have a running buddy to match your energy!
Dalmatian
Breed Averages:
- Height: 19-24 inches
- Weight: 45-70 pounds
- Life Expectancy: 11-13 years
Dalmatians are a ball of fun! With combined high levels of energy and playfulness, of course, this breed loves to run! These furry friends are highly protective and alert, keeping their owners in shape and safe.
Vizsla
Breed Averages:
- Height: 22-24 inches (male), 21-23 inches (female)
- Weight: 55-60 pounds (male), 44-55 pounds (female)
- Life Expectancy: 12-14 years
If you’re looking for a never-ending game of chase, lucky for you, Vizsla’s love to play and exercise with their humans! This breed also has high adaptability levels, meaning they’re looking to please and are ultimately easier to train.
Doberman Pinscher
Breed Averages:
- Height: 26-28 inches (male), 24-26 inches (female)
- Weight: 75-100 pounds (male), 60-90 pounds (female)
- Life Expectancy: 10-12 years
One of the easiest dog breeds to train, Doberman Pinschers strive to keep their human happy, so they’ll gladly go along with your daily runs! These loving, gentle giants need high levels of mental stimulation, so they love a challenge or new terrain to explore!
Weimaraner
Breed Averages:
- Height: 25-27 inches (male), 23-25 inches (female)
- Weight: 70-90 pounds (male), 55-75 pounds (female)
- Life Expectancy: 10-13 years
Another unique breed known for its high energy and trainability levels is Weimaraners. These silky-coated fur babies love playing watchdog for the family home but enjoy a run around the neighborhood before bedtime!
German Shorthaired Pointer
Breed Averages:
- Height: 23-25 inches (male), 21-23 inches (female)
- Weight: 55-70 pounds (male), 45-60 pounds (female)
- Life Expectancy: 10-12 years
One of the friendliest dog breeds ever, German Shorthaired Pointers love to meet new friends, furry or human! GSPs have energy all over the place, so it’s best to keep them in a routine so that energy has a healthy outlet!