The Best Dogs for Runners
• German shorthaired pointers
• Vizslas
• Jack Russell terriers
Key Traits: A medium build, well-muscled hind quarters, not too heavy
Brisk, Shorter Runs (Less than 10 KM)
• Greyhounds
• Pit bulls
• English setters
• Beagles
• Golden and Labrador retrievers
Going Fast (7 Minute Miles or Less)
• Vizslas
• German shorthaired pointers
• Weimaraners
• Greyhounds
• Whippets
Key Traits: A medium-size, lean build, and a mental aptitude for running
Long, Slow Runs
• Catahoulas
• Labrador retrievers
• Standard poodles
• Dalmatians
Key Traits: A bigger body that can handle the distance—if you go slow
Running in the Heat:
• Rhodesian ridgebacks
• Vizslas
• Airedale terriers
• Fox terriers
Key Traits: A long nose, a short, sleek coat, and a svelte body
Running in the Cold
• Malamutes
• German shepherds
• Swiss mountain dogs
• Siberian huskies
Key Traits: A thick coat and a stockier body type
Running on Trails with Obstacles
• German shorthaired pointers
• Vizslas
• Weimaraners
• Border collies
• Belgian sheepdogs
Key Traits: Sure-footed and quick to react (such as herding and hunting dogs)
Most Obedient on Heavily Used Trails
• Golden and Labrador retrievers
• Standard poodles
• Labradoodles
• Border collies
Key Traits: Nonaggressive, people-oriented, and obedient; has a calm personality
Amazing how Yorkies didn’t make the list… There was only one time I tried to run with Wilson and he pretended that he had a leg injury less than a block in…
Do you run with a dog?
If not, which dog from the list suits your running style?
Angela (@eatspinrunrpt) says
Sending a big hug your way this morning Jess! I’ve had 3 dogs so far in my life but they weren’t really the running type. I don’t think I’ll ever need one of the cold weather ones because you know how much outdoor winter running I do! 😉
Jessica says
Ha – and I neglected to find the best dogs for a treadmill, so you are out of luck! I am getting excited for you as you prep for Sea Wheeze!