The 12 Most Active Dog Breeds – Highest Energy Dog Breeds
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So you’re looking for a companying to journey through hikes with or maybe you’re looking for the most active dog breeds because you have a lot of time on your hand and want someone to keep you moving.
Whatever the reason is, active dog’s are so much fun.
A warning: If you don’t have the energy or time to keep up with them, these dog breeds are not recommended.
These dogs require non stop activity. These dogs can be considered working dogs. Meaning they need a purpose. They need to work every single day, otherwise behavioral and anxiety issues will occur.
However, if you consider yourself to be active and have a passion for the outdoors, these dog breeds will be right up your ally.
It’s crucial that you can set aside extra time for them and provide them with a stimulating environment.
Ready to get rocking? Good, let’s go!
What Is Needed For Active Dog Breeds
When it comes to the most active dog breeds, we always recommend a few things.
- You have a high amount of energy:
This one pretty much explains itself. You need to be able to keep up with your dog. This means you will need to be able to walk them daily. Stimulate there mind by letting them play fetch, swim, play games, etc. Active dogs are amazing, if you’re able to give them what they crave, which is activity. - You have to have time:
This one goes hand in hand with the above point. In order to make sure your new active dog is getting his exercise, you need to have time to spend with them. You will need to have time on the weekends to spend with them, whether it be hiking, running or any other type of activity. We recommend you have at least1-2 hours a day to spend with your active dog breed, but more of course is always beneficial. - Optional – You will want room for your dog
This one is optional, but is a good thing to have. Having room for your dog to roam around outside will make life easier for you. For example, if you have 1/2 ache yard, your dog will be able to run around, play fetch, and just be outside sniffing, playing, and releasing their energy. Now this is not a required, but it is a really nice perk to have.
It’s also important to know that all dog breeds are different. They all have different things they like to do, and don’t like to do. You can learn more about all these dog breeds here on Jacktra, so we encourage you to stick around after you read this article.
With that being said, let’s breakdown the most active dog breeds in order ranking from most active to not as active.
1. Belgian Malinois
These dog’s are absolutely one of the most active dog breeds in the world. They have non stop energy and NEED to be exercised daily. You should not even think about getting this type of dog breed unless you have 2+ hours a day to spend with them. (We’re talking about hands on time. EX: walking/hiking, training, running, playing.)
The Belgian Malinois is actually one of four varieties of sheepdogs native to Belgium that were all bred for herding and originated in various regions of the nation.
Today, the Belgian Malinois are extremely popular in the military and police force. This is because of there crazy ability to run, sniff, guard/attack is second to none. You may have seen the videos of these amazing dogs jumping up 15+ foot walls or flying through the air after a bad guy.
Daily walks won’t cut it here. These dogs must engage in activities like running, hiking, and more.
It’s also important to note, that these dogs when placed in the wrong owners hands can be aggressive. Meaning if you are not going to train, or have your dog professional trained, there could be issues.
These dogs are absolutely amazing if, you have the time, energy and ability to work and train with them. We also do NOT recommend Belgian Malinois for new dog owners. Meaning if you have never had a dog before, you should NOT get Belgian Malinois.
2. Labrador Retriever
The Labrador Retriever is the most popular dog breed in the US and they are excellent dogs for all occasions. These high energy dogs are great with kids and are simple to train. They are considered one of the gentlest and least aggressive breeds of dogs.
The Labrador breed was first brought to Britain from ships trading between Canada and Poole in Dorsetshire in the 1830s, when St. John’s water dogs bred by European settlers in Newfoundland were first brought to the country. These were later crossed with British hunting canines to produce the Labrador Retriever.
These dogs were bred to duck hunt (still extremely popular for hunting) and are outstanding gun dogs, consistently dominating field trials. They have an incredible nose that allows them to be incredible successful hunting.
Labrador Retrieves love swimming, running around and are one of the most active dog breeds.
They are great dogs for new and experienced dog owners, but don’t get it twisted, these dogs need to work.
It doesn’t matter if it is reining, snowing or sunny… Labrador Retriever want to be outside playing
We should also mention there are two different types of Labrador Retrieves, the English and American Labs. They are both extremely different.
The American Labs have longer legs, a longer muzzle, a narrower head, and an athletic, agile build. While the tails of British Labs are thick and straight, those of American Labs are more likely to be thinner and occasionally curve upward. The coat of the British Lab is typically thicker.
The English Lab is regarded as having a calmer, less energetic, and quieter temperament than the American Lab. When compared to American labs, they are frequently described as being sweeter, mellower, incredibly relaxed, and quieter, making them easier for less experienced and laid-back owners to train and live with.
American Labs are typically more energetic, more motivated, and more active.
I might be a little bias here, but I’ve had Labrador Retrievers my whole life and they’re the best dogs.
3. Border Collie
The Border Collie is an athletic dog with a high drive and a lot of energy.
They are often called one of the smartest dog breeds and are the happiest when given a task to complete.
They are not only top-notch herders but also love to play whether it is with the ball, frisbee or anything else.
The majority of energetic dog breeds also require equal amounts of mental stimulation. Border collies are excellent for owners who enjoy spending their free time adventuring outdoors because they require at a ton of exercise each day in addition to lots of mental stimulation.
Although border collies were bred to work sheep, they are herders and can handle almost any kind of herd. They will even herd the family’s children. They are still extremely popular on farms working with sheep’s and herding.
4. Dalmatian
The Dalmatian is best known for its stamina, quickness, and intellect.
They were bred as hunting dogs, war canines, and border guards for Dalmatia. The breed still has a strong guarding instinct; while friendly and devoted to people it knows and trusts, it can be wary of strangers and other dogs.
You may have seen Dalmatians used as fire dogs and might be wondering why that is. Since horses are afraid of fire, the Dalmatians’ presence could occupy their attention and provide comfort for them as they drew the wagon closer to the fire. Additionally, the Dalmatians kept watch near the wagon to make sure that nobody took the firefighter’s possessions, tools, or horses.
Dalmatians are playful, sensitive, and highly energetic dogs.
Although some Dalmatian experts warn that the breed may be too energetic for very small children, they are devoted to their family and good with kids. These dogs are smart, trainable, and make reliable watchdogs.
5. Australian Shepherds
For their herding and guarding instincts, Australian Shepherds need daily exercise. They will continue to move all day if you let them. Australian shepherds are affectionately known, require daily exercise to keep them busy and stimulated.
Australian Shepherds were first bred to herd livestock for ranchers and farmers in the western United States, and some of them still do so today.
Because of their eagerness to please personalities and original breeding for their herding instincts, these intelligent, devoted, and active dogs are always up for some high level activity.
They are the ideal pet for owners who enjoy high-intensity activities like Frisbee and long walks or hikes because they thrive in a work environment. A healthy diet, regular exercise, and veterinary care will ensure that your Australian shepherd companion will be by your side for many years to come.
Although they are simple to train, Aussies are typically not advised for families with young children because of their herding instincts, which means they may nip at the heels of children. You may want to keep this in mind when deciding whether these active dogs are the right fit for your family.
6. Golden Retrievers
Golden Retrievers are one of the most well-liked dog breeds and a true household favorite.
Golden Retrievers are excellent companions for owners who enjoy walking, running, hiking, and being outside. Additionally, they enjoy the water and swimming, playing fetch and can be trained for hunting as well.
The Scottish Highlands is where golden retrievers were first bred, and there they were primarily used as hunting dogs. Due to the abundance of ponds and marshes on their hunting grounds, the Scottish estate owners needed a dog that could retrieve birds both on land and in the water.
Today, not many people hunt with Golden Retrievers and they have took over more of the house dog / perfect family dog role. But again, don’t get it twisted. Hunting is in these dog breeds blood. With proper training and the right bloodline, these dogs will excel in the hunting field.
They are high energy dogs that need exercise and it is important they get it a good amount of it daily. This is important because goldens are prone to obesity and other weight-related health issues.
7. German Shorthaired Pointer
German shorthaired pointers are classic hunting dogs.
They are brown-and-white energy balls, so short walks around the block won’t cut it.
German shorthaired pointers have a great love of the outdoors and are happiest when they are running, hiking, swimming, or participating in agility and field events.
These multitasking dogs can hunt, point, and retrieve, and have been used to hunt a variety of quarry, including rabbits, raccoons, game birds, and even deer. They were bred to be instinctive hunting all-rounders.
8. Russell Terrier
The pinnacle of small active dog breeds is the russell terrier.
They were bred as hunting dogs since the early 1800s. They are intelligent, energetic, and happiest when both their minds and bodies are engaged. Russell terriers were specifically bred to hunt burrowing animals, and they enjoy digging and chasing.
However, it’s also important to note that Russell terriers are very skilled at agility and flyball, making them the ideal companion for engaged, active, and compassionate dog owners. Long daily walks and playtime in the backyard are great ways to burn off their energy.
Note: Jack Russell and a Russell terrier are different. What is the difference between a Jack Russell and a Russell terrier?
The size difference between a Parson Russell Terrier and a Jack Russell terrier is the most noticeable. Jack Russell’s are slightly smaller. While a Parson Russell is taller at 12–14′′ on the withers, the breed should measure 10-15′′ at the withers.
9. English Springer Spaniel
English springer spaniels are adored for their friendly temperament in addition to being indisputably attractive.
These English Springer Spaniel were bred as hunting dogs. They have a high energy level and require an hour or more of exercise each day, so having access to a big yard is ideal.
If not, frequent, lengthy walks, trips to the dog park, or off-leash running should suffice. English springer spaniels are the ideal hiking, hunting, and running companions because they have a thirst for adventure.
10. German Shepherd
German shepherds are intelligent, courageous, and loyal dogs.
German Shepherds are working dogs that were created originally for herding and protecting sheep and are a member of the herding group. They are frequently used in police and military roles around the world due to their strength, intelligence, and aptitude for obedience training.
Remember that these dogs’ natural work ethic is what makes them such superior police, search, and guide dogs. So bear that in mind when choosing this breed as your canine companion if you prefer to cuddle up on the couch or have young children who occupy much of your time.
When it comes to a family dog, German Shepard’s, with the right training and socialization, can make very gentle companions and family protectors. Because of its intelligence and protective nature, this breed is a good choice for families with young children and is ideal for active households (as long as the dog is properly trained).
But just like the Belgian Malinois, you need to make sure you have time for training (hour daily), or will be getting professional training
11. Beagles
Beagles prefer to run and walk with their owner to burn off that energy.
These dogs enjoy playing and require regular exercise and because of their sociable and outgoing nature, beagles make excellent family pets.
Now they can be loud and aggressive, so it’s best to keep an eye on them around young children as with all dogs. Beagles are highly intelligent and eager to please, so they will enjoy lots of training and mental stimulation.
The breed was initially developed in England in the 16th century as hounds for hunting rabbits. Beagles originated in 16th-century England, where affluent Englishmen frequently kept hound packs. The beagles, which were smaller hounds, were used to hunt rabbits and other small game.
12. Siberian Huskies
Siberian huskies are loved for their stunning eyes and wolf-like features. With boundless energy, they make wonderful pets for active people who live in cold climates.
The Chukchi people of Northeast Asia and Siberia bred huskies to serve as sled dogs, reindeer herders, multipurpose workers, companion animals, and watchdogs. And even though Huskies are now mostly used as family pets, many of them are still bred in Alaska and other snowy areas to pull sleds.
They make excellent hiking and running companions thanks to their endurance and love of running, and from a mental perspective, they greatly benefit from agility training and training classes.
When the weather is cool enough, other enjoyable activities you can do with your husky include dog sledding, bike riding, teaching them new tricks, and games of fetch.
Huskies are very outgoing and enjoys being around all types of people. Being a family member is very important to a husky because he is very devoted and pack-oriented. A Husky is a great choice for families with children because of his even-tempered nature and lack of reputation for aggression.
Now you should be aware, Huskies are very headstrong. They have a tendency to run away. If they have the opportunity, they are definitely likely to run off on their own. Huskies enjoy running away when bored or when their needs are not being met. This is more of a husky personality trait than an attachment issue, so try not to take it personally.
Are Active Dog Breeds Good Family Dogs
Well, that really depends on the dog breed. Most active dog breeds mentioned here are great family dogs. But all dogs will need proper training and they will need to understand what is acceptable behavior when playing and what is not allowed.
A dog is only as good as it’s owner. If the owner is not setting rules, paying attention, actively teaching and training the dog, the dog can develop anxiety and other behavioral issues.
That is why it is extremely important to understand the dog breed and it’s purpose (what it was bred for) are critical. Knowing your dog’s past will help you better understand how to care for them. Understanding there temperament will work wonders for you and your dogs journey.
Conclusion
So there you have it. The 12 most active dog breeds. We strongly recommend that you make sure you are going to have the time and energy to keep up with these active dogs. Many times, behavioral issues occur if these active dogs are not getting enough exercise. This includes both mental and physical exercise.
We hope we were able to make you life a little easier as we broke down the most active dog breeds. As always, you can read more about each dog breed here on Jacktra. With that being said, see you in the next one!
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