While all dogs need exercise, some definitely require more activity than others. If you are a marathon runner or want an agility dog, one of these breeds may fit you just fine. On the other hand, if you are more of the movie-marathon type, you may want to skip one these dogs .“Too much energy” is one of the reasons dogs are relinquished to shelters, so be sure you are ready before adding one of these breeds to your family.
#1 – Border Collie
Often described as “the dog without an ‘off switch,’” the Border Collie is the quintessential worker. He will work from sun up to sun down and be happy about it. Definitely not a couch potato, unless he ran the marathon first.
#2 – Viszla
Owners of the Viszla will tell you that this breed seems to be constantly in motion. Expect to go on daily runs if you add one of these athletic dogs to your family.
#3 – Siberian Husky
There is no doubt this breed needs exercise. Those used on sled teams can run up to 100 miles without a substantial break! (www.seeingdoublesleddogracing.com)
#4 – Alaskan Malamute
Like the Siberian Husky, these dogs were bred to run and then run some more. But unlike the Husky, they were not bred to race. However, they were bred to cover distance, so expect long exercise sessions to tire this breed out.
#5 – Brittany Spaniel
A high-energy dog with an upbeat personality to match, the Brittany just might make you enjoy exercise, too.
#6 – American Foxhound
Bred to chase a wiley fox all over the countryside for a day-long hunt, this breed has plenty of energy. However, he may be hard to exercise with because he will want to follow every scent he comes across. Activities such as barn hunts or field trials are best to wear out this hound.
#7 – Australian Shepherd
This breed, like most working dogs, definitely needs an outlet for his energy. Whether it’s a long game of fetch, a run or agility, he will appreciate it. Worried you aren’t giving him enough exercise? Don’t worry, this pushy breed will let you know if you are not giving him enough exercise – usually by barking at you until you play with him so more.
#8 –Dalmatian
The Dalmatian is described by the American Kennel Club (AKC) as being “active, possessing great endurance, speed and intelligence.” They have no problem keeping up while galloping alongside a horse as a coach dog in “road trials,” so they definitely have endurance and speed. (www.akc.org).
#9 – Russell Terrier
This breed has a strong personality and energy to match. Very intelligent, you will have to exercise his mind as well as his body in order to keep him from getting into trouble.
#10 – Weimaraner
An athletic dog bred for speed, he would love to go for a fast run or participate in a sport like agility.
#11 – Miniature American Shepherd
This breed was created by breeding small Australian Shepherds in the 60’s. Despite their small size, they have large personalities and just as much energy as their larger counterparts.
#12 –Basenji
A cute hound with a curled tail, the Basenji is a high-energy dog with a high-prey drive as well. He will love a good run, but watch him because he will chase anything that moves.
#13 –Bluetick Hound
This hound is described as “well-muscled but sleek and racy,” by the AKC (www.akc.org). More important to note, they are a nocturnal hunter, so if you enjoy activity at night, this may be a good dog for you.
#14 –Shetland Sheepdog
While there is quite a range in this breed – depending on the breeding lines – a Sheltie from “working” lines will definitely be high energy and expect a job. Like the Aussie, he will let you know if you haven’t exercised him enough.
#15 –Doberman Pinscher
The Dobie is a muscular dog known for his speed and endurance, which is why he is a good fit as a military and police dog (www.akc.org). As a family dog, you better give him a job to do such as running partner or agility in order to keep him from being bored and overweight.
