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20 Best Dog Breeds For Joggers

Written by Viena
Viena is passionate about all sorts of domesticated pets. They have written dozens of articles across the web.
Published on
Friday 27 May 2022
Last updated on
Tuesday 9 May 2023
dog breeds for joggers
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Dogs can make great running partners for joggers. They are always ready to go, eagerly keep pace with you, and never complain about being tired. But not every dog is built for the activity, so it’s important to pick out the best dog breeds for joggers like you. 

With the variety of dog breeds available nowadays, it’s best to know what kind of breed will suit best your jogging routine. Thus, you might want to consider choosing from this list of the best dog breeds for runners like you. This article includes dog breeds’ characteristics, skills in running, and the most commonly asked questions related to dog runners. Let’s get started. 

Benefits of Exercise for Your Pet

Dogs have lots of energy and need some activities to reduce it. And doing daily walks and runs will definitely help your fur buddies to be fit and prevent any health issues. It’s also important to keep them active to prevent too many zoomies during the nighttime.

Doing dog exercise helps lower blood pressure and build up muscles, besides these, proper exercise will give them healthy bones. It can also affect their behavioral problems and stop them from becoming bored and feeling lonely.

Overall, dog exercise will make your dogs happy and fit at the same time. It will improve their mental health and physical health at once, also it will give you time to bond with each other.

Top 20 Dog Breeds for Joggers

If you have a healthy and active lifestyle, these dog breeds are perfect for you. We listed the top breeds and include their traits so you can get to know them a little more.

1. American Staffordshire Terrier

American Staffordshire Terrier is known for being smart, confident, and good-natured. Despite their stocky and heavy build, this breed does well when going on runs. As for running companions, they are usually full of energy, agility and have muscle control.

Daily exercise is essential for a well-behaved staffy since they have a lot of energy that needs to be used. This dog breed is happiest when given some purpose from its owner by being taken along on running activity or physicality like fetching balls. 

2. Australian Cattle Dog

The Australian Cattle Dog is a highly trained herding breed originating from Australia. They are known for their athleticism, agility, and intelligence level to herd cattle effectively.

The Australian Cattle breed has a long history of being an athletic herding dog that loves to run around outside with its human companions for hours. Australian Cattle Dog thrives off giving you any job they can think up, whether it be fetching your keys or running out into the yard.

3. Labrador Retriever

A Labrador Retriever is a friendly, active dog that is very outgoing. They are best known as one of the most popular breeds in America and can be easily found at homes across the country. This dog breed requires lots of exercise, so taking them for walks or playing fetch with them would help maintain their physical health while meeting their need to socialize and get rid of some energy.  

But, when running with your Labrador in warm weather, take extra precautions. Continuous running is not natural for a dog. Dogs, particularly Labrador retrievers, can overheat if they run in hot weather for an extended period.

4. Boxer

Boxers are a breed of dog that lives for fun. They love to run and play move actively, making them the perfect companions for running and exercise. This intelligent animal has been used in wars because it could carry messages quickly on foot during wartimes. It means boxers can go on runs whenever they please without getting tired too easily due to their endurance levels being high enough already.

Indeed, the boxer is an energetic pup. They can’t stop until they are exhausted, and even in the middle of their sleep cycle, they may kick out a leg or paw while sleeping. It makes exercise an important part of life for this breed, like regular walks. Boxers are sure to keep you entertained and healthy.

5. Brittany Spaniel

The Brittany Spaniel is a breed that’s known for being bright, upbeat, and fun-loving. They are bred to be gundog and hunting companions cherished by those on the Atlantic. The Brittany Spaniel can reach speeds of up to 25 mph and requires a lot of activity regularly.

Brittany Spaniel is extremely family-oriented and most content when spending time with their families, whether they’re out in nature or at home. 

6. German Shorthaired Pointer

German Shorthaired Pointer is very friendly, smart, and easy to please. This breed is among the best dog breeds for joggers with a passion for hunting. They can run long distances with great speed, making them excellent exercisers for joggers who want to keep up their fitness routine between workdays. 

They are considered to have one of the fastest running speeds of any dog breed, battling with greyhounds. A healthy German Shorthaired Pointer has a running speed of 35-72.4 kph. Moreover, they do not just love running, but also love other physical activities such as swimming.   

7. Siberian Husky

Mischievous, loyal, and outgoing Siberian Huskies are a popular choice of dog breed. They were bred to travel light loads at great speeds in cold regions. In the working group, they can be seen doing sledding or pulling carts and participating in competitions for racing and herding events.

The Siberian Husky is a delightful animal with an affinity for family life. This dog breed thrives in any social setting and is considered one of the most intelligent breeds on Earth, requiring daily exercise from their owners or potential adopters.

8. English Setter 

The English Setter is a beautiful breed that’s known for being friendly, mellow, and merry. One thing to keep in mind with these dogs is they don’t have an outlet for their energy, so they may turn on your furniture.

The English setters were bred as working dogs, so it should be no surprise that those same characteristics make them great hunting companions. They were bred to “set” when hunting game birds, making them a part of the working group. If you’re looking for a sporting companion or just something fun like playing fetch outside during the day, then this dog breed could be one of your best options. 

9. Belgian Shepherds 

Belgian Shepherds are serious, watchful, and intelligent dogs that do not tire easily. They can herd sheep for hours without getting tired. With their muscular build, they also can run with elegance. In 1908, a German shepherd specialist recognized that the Belgian Shepherd is bred specifically for fighting purposes during WWII. 

Belgian Shepards helped soldiers on WWI battlefields with their speed, intelligence, and agility, making them perfect working partners when searching hideouts like trenches or hedgerows. Additionally, they can easily carry heavy equipment weighing up to 60 pounds around all day long.

10. Poodle

Poodles were bred as athletic dogs in Europe. They are known for being water retrievers and gun dogs, but there is more to this breed. Poodle owners emphasized poodles’ best qualities, including intelligence and energy levels similar to a retriever or border collie. This breed is also known for easy obedience training because of its trainability and high intelligence level, making them wonderful companions when properly trained.

Poodles and poodle mixes (e.g., Maltipoo, Havapoo) have a lot of energy and can run for a long period. It isn’t good if you do not let your poodle run outside. Poodles’ energy becomes trapped inside if they are not exercised. It may cause the poodle to act strangely.

poodles dogs for joggers
Poodles’ high intelligence level, make them wonderful companions when properly trained.

11. Jack Russell Terrier

Jack Russell Terriers are very energetic and curious, making it a man’s best friend for many reasons. Their small, compact body and endurance make them perfect partners in long-distance running even within the city limits. Jack Russells can reach speeds of up to 25 mph. They maintain up well at regular jogging and running speeds of 4-9mph for any fairly short-medium distance. This energetic dog breed is full of personality and can be quite mischievous at times, bringing so much joy into their owners’ lives.

12. Dalmatian

Dalmatians are perfect for a family pet because they are outgoing, dignified, and smart. They have tall, lean bodies that are made for powerful yet graceful runs. They are also known as the “Gentleman’s Dog” due to their friendly demeanor with humans, which makes them great watchdogs or companions on long-term running adventures. Aside from their innate want to work, this breed can be a family-loving addition to your household. 

Their incredible speed and agility can keep with horses. They are great accountability partners, ready to push you in that last long mile.

13. Australian Shepherd

The Austrian Shepherd is smart, work-oriented, and exceptionally happy. This dog breed is also a natural herding dog with the intelligence to keep up on anything that moves! Known as ‘cowboy’s herding dog of choice,’ this energetic pup has an instinctive need for movement, which makes it fantastic at chores such as moving cattle or tending chickens in the barnyard. They can even herd your children if they get too close to something you don’t want them near, like equipment or tools!

Australian Shepherd is known for their work ethic, and Shepherds especially love to be given a task. They may not be the best choice of pet if you live on your couch all day long. Going for runs can help provide a physical and mental outlet, and they’ll be sure to love it. 

14. Airedale Terrier

Airedale Terriers are known for being clever, friendly, and courageous. These traits make them the King of terriers because they have a perfect size, strength, and spirit that you can’t find in any other pup! The Airedale is always up to something with their fair amount of energy; great for running around town or just playing fetch at home.

Airedales love attention from humans but spend lots of time socializing amongst themselves too. They’re very smart, so training should be pretty easy if you set clear boundaries early on. 

15. Vizsla

The Vizsla is a gentle, affectionate dog with a lot of energy. They were originally bred to work long days on fields as gundogs, and so they have plenty of stamina from that training. Vizsla forms close bonds with their human companions and can make great pets for someone looking for a running companion. Physical activity such as jogging or going out into nature will help keep your dog happy. Running with them will keep them physically fit and mentally stimulated in an environment where they feel safe exploring new things.

16. Alaskan Malamute

Alaskan Malamutes are affectionate, loyal, and playful dogs. They have a broad, heavy body that is suited for running even in the coldest weather. Alaskan’s dense coat helps them survive unbearable cold temperatures. 

In connection, the Alaskan Malamute has a history as an arctic sled dog, carrying loads over long distances. It’s perfect for runners who live in colder climates because they can ensure that these dogs will not mind if it gets cold outside.

17. Border Collie

Border Collies are a very intelligent breed that is affectionate and energetic. They are very loving, so they’re perfect for families or those who want an active pet! These dogs can be easy to train because they naturally enjoy taking on new tasks. 

Border Collies can be active for hours on end and require a lot of exercise. Because of their excellent temperament and flexibility in training, they are obedient, which means you may run with them leash-free and always be certain that they will behave themselves. Their inherent energy and fitness levels will also push you to go further than you would normally do. Border collie’s energy makes them the best choice if you need help with your outside chores and sports training too. 

18. Weimaraner

Weimaraners are perfect for anyone who loves a dog with an outgoing personality. This dog breed is always up to trying something new. Weimaraner are naturally friendly, brave, and obedient that are low-maintenance. They have short coats, which makes them ideal if you live in hot climates. 

Weimaraners were originally bred as large hunting dogs to point and retrieve game birds, but today they’ve adapted and been considered among the best dog breeds for joggers and hikers. Anyone looking at getting an adventure-loving pup must take a look at this breed. 

19. Rhodesian Ridgeback

Rhodesian Ridgebacks are traced back to their original home on African plains. They are originally bred for tracking and baying lions and used as watchdogs during slave trading days. They were ensuring that athleticism was embedded into their blood

However, despite this tough history, these lovable companions are affectionate with humans who make them feel loved. This breed may not always tolerate strangers well, especially if left outdoors or overstimulated indoors for too long periods without supervision. 

20. German Shepherd

German Shepherds is one of the most intelligent and best dog breeds for joggers. They’re confident, courageous, and fearless in any situation due to their intelligence. German Shepherd’s courage has made them an essential part of all-purpose work like search and rescue missions and law enforcement duties under pressure without human assistance. This dog breed has been sheepdogs, police officers, and military guard animals for World War II prisoners. 

German Shepherd is best for running in colder climates. Because of their intelligence and need for exercise, they are perfect companions for running and protecting you anywhere. 

German shepherds dog breed
German Shepherd is best for running in colder climates.

Top Dog Breeds For Joggers: FAQ

Can smaller dogs go running?

Smaller dogs can go running. Smaller dogs have an edge because they only carry less weight and are more agile. With small stature, their joints don’t get as much wear and tear as other larger breeds experience, leading to fewer issues in the long run. For example, smaller dog breeds such as Chihuahuas or Pomeranians can usually manage a jog just fine with little effort at all for them. Small breeds can also be the best dog for joggers.

At what age can dogs start going on runs? 

Generally, it is best to wait until dogs are at least seven months old. Taking them for strenuous activities earlier than six months can affect their growing joints and muscles. But, Puppies of larger breeds may need a few more extra months than this age range. It allows them to develop safely into adulthood with strong bones and full muscle development. 

How much can my dog run?

An average fit dog can run 25 to 35 miles in a week. Smaller dogs may only run half that or less if they are not active due to temperament and size differences. For instance, smaller breeds such as Pugs or Shih Tzus may only average 8 miles per week, while larger ones like Newfoundlands might do 30 miles on average each day. There are advantages to running miles if your dog is one of the best dog breeds for joggers.

What do I need to go running with my dog?

You can buy many things to ensure you and your dog have an enjoyable and safe run. Here are things you should remember to bring: 

Reflective dog harness. If you’re going for a run with your dog in low-light circumstances, make sure you and your dog are both well-visible. A comfortable, luminous harness should suffice.
Dog shoes. These anti-slip, all-terrain dog shoes are designed to be both breathable and durable to protect your dog’s paws when pounding the pavement or any other surface
Water. It’s important to have some water with you so that both you and your dog can keep hydrated.
Bowl. If you’re carrying water with you, make sure you have a small bowl to pour it into or a dog water bottle with a built-in reservoir.

How often should I take my dog running? 

In general, dogs need about 30 minutes of activity per day.

If you plan on taking your dog running, be sure to provide a day or two of rest or light exercise. Although some dogs may require more than 30 minutes per day for adequate activity, others might need less depending on their size, breed, age, and health status. If your dog is one of the best dog breeds for joggers, they should need more active exercise.

The general rule is that to maintain good physical fitness, any animal should get at least 20-30 minutes of one vigorous daily activity.  It can take walking with an owner most days but involve other outdoor activities like playing fetch indoors sometimes. 

A dog running companion will encourage you to push harder and go farther, giving you the drive to keep going! Runners often find that their runs are more enjoyable when their pets accompany them. They are more concerned with enjoying the run with their buddy than with running time or calories burnt. In addition, jogging with your dog has several physical and emotional health advantages for both you and your dog. Aside from reducing weight, some benefits include increased mental alertness, less anxiety, and improved cardiac strength.

However, before deciding to get a dog running companion, it is important to familiarize yourself with the best dog breeds for joggers like you. Remember, that not all dogs are for such heavy activity. So, it is necessary to consult a veterinarian to assess if your dog is fit for running. 

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