Dogs were bred for all different purposes, and as a result, their energy levels can differ significantly. Some dogs are proud lap dogs who prefer to spend their time snoozing in the sun, while others are balls of energy who thrive on hours (and we’re talking hours) of vigorous exercise.
Today, we’ll be focusing on the latter. More specifically, the most active dog breeds out there! These dogs are sure to accompany you on all your outdoor adventures, and they all make perfect family companions too.
We’ve made sure to include a whole range of active dog breeds to help you find the perfect exercise buddy, each varying in size and personality.
The Jack Russell terrier is a small bundle of fluff with the energy level of a giant pup! They’re an adrenaline junkie at heart and love nothing more than going on adventures with their owner. As is the case for most terrier breeds, they also enjoy exercise activities that put their natural chasing instincts to good use, such as fetch, fly-ball, and flirt pole chasing.
Jack Russell terriers grow up to 14 inches tall and weigh between 13 and 19 pounds. They have short coats that can come in different textures, including smooth, broken, and rough, and they typically have prominent bi-color markings on their bodies.
Jack Russell terriers are incredibly alert, courageous, and curious. They’re also devoted to their owners and form strong bonds. While Jack Russell terriers are intelligent, they are independent-minded and can be stubborn — both traits that can make training difficult, especially if you’re a first-time owner.
However, that doesn’t mean they won’t pick up commands quickly. You just need to have persistence and use effective training techniques, like positive reinforcement measures.
Cocker spaniels are extremely energetic pups who never quite grow out of the zoomie-filled puppy phase. Most cockier spaniels need at least an hour or two of exercise per day, and they love activities that make full use of both their brains and muscles.
The cocker spaniel stands 13.5 to 15.5 inches tall and weighs between 20 and 30 pounds. They’re known for their sturdy, athletic build and adorable floppy ears. They have long double coats that come in a variety of colors, including black, silver, red, brown, white, and sable.
The cocker spaniel is a people pleaser and they thrive when given a job to do. Because of these traits, they excel at training and can master even the most complex of commands. They’re also incredibly affectionate, so they’re a great companion for those after an energetic pup who doesn’t also mind being a lap dog after a long workout.
The beagle is a curious and friendly hunting dog who has plenty of energy to spare. They appreciate games that allow them to tap into their wild hunting instincts, as well as activities that make full use of their sniffer, such as scent work and treat-stuffed puzzle toys.
They require over an hour of exercise per day to stay happy and fit. They also need plenty of mental stimulation to keep their brains occupied.
Beagles come in two size varieties. The smallest variety only reaches 13 inches tall and weighs under 20 pounds, while the medium-sized variety stands 13 to 15 inches tall and weighs between 20 and 30 pounds.
Beagles have broad heads, long ears, and adorable, puppy-like facial features that stay present even into adulthood. They have short coats that are typically tri-colored, with common colors being black, brown, red, and white.
While beagles do have a stubborn streak — no doubt because their nose often leads them astray — they respond well to reward-based training and can pick up complex commands with a bit of persistence. Plus, they’re gentle, affectionate, and get along well with kids and other dogs.
The Siberian husky has a reputation for being rebellious, loud, and difficult to manage. But if you’re up for the challenge? You’ll be rewarded with one of the best hiking buddies in the whole world, and a playmate who will keep you entertained with their bubbly, goofy personality!
Siberian huskies need at least two to three hours of exercise per day. And thanks to their long history as sled dogs, they have the muscles (and stamina) to take on any vigorous activity you throw at them.
Siberian huskies stand 20 to 23.5 inches tall and weigh up to 60 pounds. They have wolf-like features and extremely thick coats that keep them protected from harsh weather and cold temperatures.
Despite what their independent streak may lead you to think, Siberian huskies are people-oriented dogs and are incredibly loyal to those they see as family. They don’t tolerate being left alone for long periods well, so they fare best with individuals who can spend time with them throughout the day.
The border collie is widely considered to be the smartest dog breed in the world. And while their brain is unrivaled — in fact, they’re capable of identifying and responding to over a thousand words! Their energy level is pretty unrivaled too.
They’re extremely energetic and require at least two hours of exercise per day. They also have a strong work drive and appreciate an owner who can give them a job to do. Some great jobs for a border collie include agility, herding, and flyball, though mentally-stimulating games like fetch and tug-of-war can suffice too.
Border collies are medium-sized herding dogs that stand 18 to 22 inches tall at the withers. They have muscular yet agile builds, and can either have smooth, short coats or rough coats, with the latter being slightly longer. Both coats come in a range of colors, though the most distinctive color combination is black and white.
Border collies are determined, alert, and tenacious. They’re also incredibly affectionate, but don’t expect them to be lapdogs — they’ll instead show their affection through their devotion and eagerness to please you.
The Labrador retriever has been one of the most popular breeds in the US for decades. This is in part because of their optimistic, loving demeanor, but it’s also because they’re extremely energetic and love to play!
The Labrador retriever will happily participate in any exercise activity, though they particularly enjoy interactive games that allow them to bond closely with their owner. Their muscular build also means no activity is too vigorous for them.
Labs also have a natural affinity for the water, so they make great companions for those who go swimming frequently or engage in watersports.
Labrador retrievers stand 21.5 to 24.5 inches tall and have dense, double-layered coats that come in three gorgeous colors: yellow, chocolate, and black. While their coats may require a fair bit of grooming and do shed pretty heavily, you’re sure to overlook the effort involved once you see their endless tail wags and happy, wide smiles.
Labrador retrievers are gentle, patient, and fun-loving dogs. They don’t have any concept of the word “enemy” and see everyone as their friend. While this is an admirable trait, it does mean you’ll want to look elsewhere if you’re after an active dog with watchdog capabilities.
The German shepherd is well-built and can partake in any outdoor activity, regardless of how vigorous it is. Not only that, but their determination is unrivaled — they’ll often motivate you to exercise harder than ever before!
German shepherds need at least two hours of exercise each day to thrive, and they don’t tire quickly.
German shepherds stand 22 to 26 inches tall and weigh up to 90 pounds. Like most working dogs, they’re built for endurance and have athletic physiques and powerful legs. They also have broad muzzles, alert expressions, and distinctive sloped backs.
German shepherds are brave, loyal, and protective. While they may be reserved around strangers — and fearsome around threats — they’re big softies with those they trust. They love cuddles and are incredibly gentle and patient with children.
The Brittany is a noble, bright, and energetic pup that loves to play and is sure to be first in line to join you on all your adventures.
They excel at dog sports like flyball and agility. However, they are adaptable and appreciate other forms of exercise too, including fetch, hikes, and long walks. Most Brittanys require at least an hour and a half of exercise per day to stay happy and fit.
The Brittany stands up to 20.5 inches tall at the withers, putting them firmly in the medium-sized breed category, and they have a short wavy coat that typically has distinct spotted markings.
The Brittany is upbeat and a goofball at heart, and they can fit right into any household as long as they have their exercise needs met.
Brittany dogs are easy to train thanks to their eagerness to please, but they do have a strong prey drive. They should be kept on a leash in areas where wild animals roam, especially birds and other small prey.
The Yorkshire terrier is another small breed packed with a larger-than-life energy level. They need around an hour of exercise per day and appreciate activities that allow them to sprint and jump around to their heart’s content.
Yorkshire terriers are one of the smallest breeds recognized by the AKC, with most only reaching 7 to 8 inches tall. They have long silky coats that are typically black and tan, blue and gold, or black and gold. Most Yorkies also have prominent feathering on their tails and around their ears, and their bodies are compact and well-proportioned.
Yorkshire terriers are feisty. While this personality trait makes them endearing, it does mean that they often forget just how small they are and take on challenges they can’t actually physically manage. Due to this, it’s important to be mindful of their size and ensure they don’t overexert themselves.
Like most terriers, they also have an independent streak, so they’re best suited to individuals with previous dog ownership experience.
German shorthaired pointers are medium-sized gundogs that are known for their endurance and strength. Most German shorthaired pointers need over two hours of exercise per day, so they’re more than worthy of inclusion on our most active dog breeds list.
German shorthaired pointers excel at practically any outdoor activity, though they particularly enjoy activities that make full use of their hunting abilities.
The German shorthaired pointer stands 21 to 25 inches tall at the shoulders and weighs up to 70 pounds. They have smooth, short coats that are easy to maintain, with prominent patched or ticked markings. Common coat colors include liver, white, brindle, and black.
The German shorthaired pointer loves pleasing their owner and they’re incredibly intelligent — both qualities that make them relatively easy to train. However, they do need someone who can properly manage their size and sheer power.
Before adopting a high-energy breed, it’s important you take the time to consider whether you have the means to actually support them. High-energy breeds require a lot of time, commitment, and dedication, and some can be strong-willed, which can make training difficult.
If you’re considering a high-energy breed, you must have enough free time to spend at least an hour or two exercising them every day. You need to be consistent with this too; if their exercise needs aren’t met, they’ll release their energy through more destructive ways (like ripping up your furniture).
You also need to have the motivation to keep up with their appetite for new experiences. High-energy breeds tend to get bored of simple, basic tasks, and appreciate variety and more vigorous activities that give them a good challenge and workout.
In addition, you need to assess whether your home environment is suitable for their size and energy level. Most active dog breeds don’t tolerate cramped spaces well. They fare best in households with spacious backyards, where they can roam, play, and stretch their legs.
There are plenty of active dogs out there that can make wonderful exercise buddies, from the determined German shepherd to the spritely Yorkshire terrier. While they do tend to be higher maintenance, they’re sure to liven up both your home and adventures!