If you're a serious runner and looking for the ideal dog breed to accompany you then it’s good to do your research, as there is a fair amount of misinformation about which dogs are best for this kind of exercise.
Remember, not all dogs are built for running long distances, even if they have high energy levels. While many working breeds (such as German Shepherds) might seem ideal, they can suffer from joint issues, and running long distances can cause issues over time. Likewise, sighthounds, such as Greyhounds, are really more suited to short bursts of speed rather than endurance runs.
In general, you don’t want to pick a breed that’s too small, or too large for running. Also, avoid dogs with short noses (brachycephalic), as they can’t cool down as well and are more prone to heatstroke. With that said, let’s look at the breeds that excel at running.
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Content:
- Dalmatian
- Siberian Husky
- German Shorthaired Pointer
- Rhodesian Ridgeback
- Australian Cattle Dog
- Honorable Mentions
- Conclusion
Dalmatian
Known for their history as carriage dogs, Dalmatians are arguably the best dog for running long distances. Their stamina, agility, and natural athleticism make them perfect running companions, capable of keeping pace over long distances. Plus, their short coat helps them stay cool, making them well-suited for warmer climates.
Remember to keep your Dalmatian safe and track their location with the Petcube GPS Tracker. This is especially important in case your dog gets off leash away from home to make sure they never get lost.
Siberian Husky
It’s well-known that Huskies are bred to pull sleds across vast distances in harsh conditions, so the Siberian Husky is a born runner–as are the other Husky breeds. While their thick coat makes them more suitable for cooler climates, they are so suited for running long distances that studies show that the Husky has genetic advantage when it comes to endurance.
These dogs are such super athletes that they are mixed with other long-distance running breeds, such as the German Shorthaired Pointer, to create ultimate long distance sled dog breeds such as the Eurohound and Alaskan Husky.
However, if you live in a warmer region, consider whether the Husky's thick double coat can be a problem. So, you might need to adjust your running schedule to cooler times of the day or year.
German Shorthaired Pointer
There is good reason to argue that the German Shorthaired Pointer (GSP) is really the best breed for running, as they are notorious for being able to run all day and keep pace with Huskies. Bred for hunting, the German Shorthaired Pointer is not only fast but can keep up a steady pace for extended periods, making them excellent for long runs.
Dr. Falina Williams, DVM, notes in one study that "hundreds of years of selection by humans have produced sport-hunting breeds of superior speed and athleticism through strong selection on multiple genes relating to cardiovascular, muscle, and neuronal functions."
This means that GSPs and other sport hunting breeds, such as Vizslas and Weimaraners, are all genetic superstars built for running.
Rhodesian Ridgeback
Originally bred to hunt lions in Africa, the Rhodesian Ridgeback is strong, agile, and built for endurance, much like the GSP and other sport hunting breeds. Coming from Africa, these dogs are particularly well adapted for warmer climates and perfect for serious runners.
One Reddit user writes that: "I met a 60 lb Rhodesian Ridgeback mix who runs roughly 30 miles a week with me. She's gone up to 12 in a single run, and I have no doubt she could do a half marathon with me at my pace."
Australian Cattle Dog
When it comes to smaller, medium-sized breeds for running, the highly intelligent Australian Cattle Dog is another fantastic breed for a committed runner. They were bred to herd cattle over long distances, so running is second nature to them and they’re typically able to keep pace all day.
Honorable Mentions
While the following breeds may not be the absolute best for long-distance running, they are still excellent options depending on your specific needs and running habits:
- Vizsla
- Weimaraner
- Jack Russell Terrier
- American Staffordshire Terrier
- Beagle
Some breeds, like the Belgian Malinois, Border Collie, Standard Poodle, and Australian Shepherd, can also accompany you on a long run and help reduce their energy levels. However, these dogs often need more mental stimulation through activities like herding, service or protection training, agility, or other sports, in addition to running.
Some of these breeds, like the Beagle, are also notorious for following their nose off leash and disappearing. After all, most of them are hunting breeds so try to keep them on leash with a Petcube GPS Tracker to avoid them getting lost.
Conclusion
When it comes to choosing the right dog to run with depends on various factors, including the climate you live in, the distances you plan to run, and the breed's physical and mental needs. Always wait for your dog to mature properly so that the growth plates in their legs have time to close before they run long distances and speak to your vet about any potential joint issues that could limit this kind of exercise.
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