The Absolute BEST Dogs for Running and Hiking

Last updated on April 13th, 2021 at 10:32 pm

Hitting the trails with your canine companion can be rewarding for both of you. After all, dogs love exercise and most thrive in the wilderness. You’ll want a pup that is obedient, not easily distracted and able to keep up with you. For the best experience while running and hiking, we’ve put together a list of a few great breeds.

Dogs love tasks, and pleasing you is in their nature, however some breeds are better than others. Breeds that are bred for speed and work are best running and hiking companions. The absolute best dogs for running and hiking have lean muscles and are easily trained.

1. Weimaraner

Bred for hunting big game, this dog is up for focused tasks. Weimaraners have long, lean muscles and an incredible drive to please you. Both of these traits make him a perfect trail partner.

He’s also not easily distracted and highly trainable. Since he’s an affectionate and easy going dog, he’s more likely to respect others on the trail.

This breed has lots of energy and needs a high amount of exercise, he’ll make a perfect companion for an active runner.

2. Rhodesian Ridgeback

One of the best running and hiking buddies is the Rhodesian Ridgeback. Originally bred to hunt lions, this breed is strong and full of stamina.

With such an incredible past, it may be surprising how personable they really are. For these reasons, he’ll keep you on your toes run after run.

While he’s a great running buddy, the Rhodesian Ridgeback can be stubborn at times. This dog needs a good deal of consistent training, but with the right parent he’s a fun outdoor companion.

3. Dalmatian

Dalmatians are great family dog with tons of personality and love. For runners, he has more than enough stamina and dexterity to keep up and take on any trek. This breed has served many purposes in its long history, but devotion is the common thread.

However, Dalmatians need a lot of options for exercise as they have a lot of energy. With good leash training, they’re sure to stay on the straight and narrow. With tons of curiosity, they enjoy any chance to get into the outdoors.

4. Vizsla

A lesser known breed, the Vizsla is a gorgeous pointer and retriever. With lean muscles and a strong frame, he’ll love hitting the trails. Whether you’re heading out for a quiet hike or a long trail run, this pup is ready for anything. Vizslas have an incredible drive to please their owners and are very trainable. With this in mind, leash training will be simple for running without pulling or distraction.

With tons of energy, this dog is perfect for taking out on family hikes or long distances. That being said, its recommended that this breed gets a guaranteed 60 minutes of exercise a day.

5. German Shorthaired Pointer

If you want a dog with energy to burn, the German Shorthaired Pointer is a great companion. This boy needs about an hour or two of exercise daily. However, with a loving nature and drive to please, he’s easily leash trained and ready to go.

Being a sporting dog, the German Shorthaired Pointer is eager to work for you and is able to take on long treks. This breed is perfect for families with a large yard and daily trips out.

6. Doberman Pinscher

Doberman Pinschers were originally bred as protectors. You can see this when they shine in agility and stamina feats. Because of his long, lean legs and athletic build, this breed will match any pace on the trail with confidence.

With his obedient and easy to train nature, the Doberman Pinscher is a great companion during long outings no matter the terrain. While he’s just as happy to hang around the house, this pup will jump at the chance to get outside with his favorite humans.

7. Australian Shepherd

If you’re running on interesting trails with obstacles, the Australian Shepherd would be a great comrade. Bred for herding cattle during long days of work, he’s well suited for a lengthy difficult run. Regardless of his low stature, this pup is up for any task. With a high prey drive, energy level, and need for purpose, he’ll surprise you with his tenacity.

Because they’re highly intelligent, this dog needs to be challenged. The Australian Shepherd is most content when routinely occupied with games, sports, and activities. Some easy training will be needed to keep this pup from getting distracted.

8. Standard Poodle

The Standard Poodle is a great breed for high energy hikes and short runs. Being originally bred as water retrievers, they’re ready for all terrain and pleasing their owners. He’s friendly, obedient, and energetic, combining all of the best qualities into one dog. Along with that, he’s eager to stay near family which makes this a great hiking and running companion.

While many other breeds on our list are fairly easy to groom, the Standard Poodles long hair may need more attention. However, poodles are also hypoallergenic, so the pros may just outweigh the cons on that front.

9. Belgian Malanois

A playful and lovable friend, the Belgian Malanois is is the perfect running and hiking buddy. From a herding background, this guy is chock full of stamina and absolutely loves to be put to work.

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For anything from technical trails to family activities, he’s ready to be included. With lots of intense energy and being a sensitive breed, he’ll need training. For this reason, this breed is recommended for those who have experience training dogs. Early and consistent training is critical. Once trained, they’re eager to please and ready to hike.

10. Jack Russel Terrier

For those looking for a smaller jogging pal, the Jack Russell Terrier is athletic and energetic. With its short stature, this breed is highly agile and easily adaptable to an apartment setting. However, don’t let size fool you, this pup has more than enough stamina to accompany you on long hikes and runs.

For an experienced dog owner, Jack Russells will need leash training to be the best trail buddy. He’ll inspire you with his fearless excitement and boundless endurance. When this boy is has an outlet to expend energy through daily exercise and thought provoking games, he’ll make a loving and loyal running partner.

11. Belgian Sheepdog

During family hikes or slow, long runs, the Belgian Shepherd will gracefully tackle the trip. He’s a tireless and obedient companion, making this dog a good choice those with an active lifestyle.

A good regimen of training and play with this breed will go a long way. Being highly intelligent, this pup needs stimulation and will love technical terrain and areas with obstacles. While this breed makes for a great family dog, early training is key. If brought up from a puppy, early socialization is needed to make him the perfect family dog and friendly neighbor.

Get your Trusty Friend Into the Wild

Regardless of the time spent outdoors, always pack enough for you and your pup. A nice collapsible bowl, clean drinking water, and a few treats are a great start.

Whether traversing unfamiliar lands or sticking to a regular trail, dogs can be the best travel buddies. Some breeds are great lap dogs and others are fantastic loyal friends, but not all are perfect for running and hiking. If you’re in the market for a dog that thrives in the wilderness, be sure to choose one that meets your pace. With reliable training, most breeds can be fantastic pals on the trails. However, where stamina and energy are concerned, some dogs are just better suited for the journey.

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