24 Best Dog Breeds for Runners

This list of the best dog breeds for runners will come in handy the next time you're looking for an exercise companion.

24 Dog Breeds That Will Love to Join You on a Run

Running is excellent for humans. Aside from being one of the best cardiovascular exercises, it helps maintain a healthy weight, improves muscle tone, builds stamina and may even help reduce anxiety and the symptoms of depression.

But it’s also great for dogs — for all of the above reasons but also as an outlet for excessive energy, not to mention a quality bonding experience with their human friends. Most dogs love to run, but some more than others, and certain breeds are more naturally suited to the activity (or were even bred for it). So, if you’re searching for the ideal canine companion when you’re pounding the sidewalk or navigating the trails, this list of the 24 best dog breeds for runners is a good starting point.

A Word to the Wise

Before we start the run-down of dog breeds — see what we did there? — it’s important to remember to be aware of your dog’s capabilities. Puppies shouldn’t run long distances, for instance, because their bones and muscles aren’t fully developed, which makes their joints susceptible to injury. And some dogs mature more slowly than others, so check with your veterinarian to make sure your mutt is physically ready to start running alongside you.

Finally, when you go running with your dog, start off at a comfortable pace, take plenty of water to keep them hydrated and give them at least one day of rest in between sessions. Now, read on to see which ones made the cut.

Rhodesian Ridgeback

The strong, smart, independent Rhodesian ridgeback needs plenty of exercise and has lots of energy to burn, making them a great companion for long runs. As the breed was developed in South Africa by Boer farmers, they can withstand extreme heat — a plus if you’re running in warmer climates.

According to the American Kennel Club (AKC), this breed loves to run and enjoys other canine sports like agility and tracking.

Rhodesian Ridgeback Summary

Rhodesian Ridgeback Overview

Temperament: Affectionate, Dignified, Even-Tempered

Height: 25-27 inches (male), 24-26 inches (female)

Weight: 85 pounds (male), 70 pounds (female)

Life Expectancy: 10 years

Weimaraner

The Weimaraner, a.k.a. the “grey ghost,” is highly energetic and loves to exercise (and play) for extended periods, which bodes well for owners who favor long, steady runs, particularly on trails. The breed’s natural obedience and unwavering devotion to its owner checks other boxes on the runner buddy list.

In fact, your Weimaraner might demand more running than you do: While walking is fine, picking up the pace is better. “A tired Weimaraner is a good Weimaraner,” says the AKC.

Weimaraner Summary

Weimaraner Overview

Temperament: Friendly, Fearless, Obedient

Height: 25-27 inches (male), 23-25 inches (female)

Weight: 70-90 pounds (male), 55-75 pounds (female)

Life Expectancy: 10-13 years

Greyhound

The greyhound is the breed most often associated with running, due to its race-track credentials. “From the narrow, aerodynamic skull to the shock-absorbing pads of the feet, greyhounds are perfectly constructed for high-speed pursuit,” says the AKC.

As you’d expect, this gentle, graceful hound is built for speed, not endurance, so they’re best suited for runners who like to keep it short and fast.

Greyhound Summary

Greyhound Overview

Temperament: Gentle, Independent, Noble

Height: 28-30 inches (male), 27-28 inches (female)

Weight: 65-70 pounds (male), 60-65 pounds (female)

Life Expectancy: 10-13 years

Wire Fox Terrier

Energetic and lively, the wire fox terrier makes a solid running partner. This breed needs lots of exercise to stay physically fit and mentally stimulated.

A word of warning, however: Keep them on the lead when running, as they’re highly likely to chase any small animal they see or become distracted by any potential adventure.

Wire Fox Terrier Summary

Wire Fox Terrier Overview

Temperament: Confident, Alert Gregarious

Height: 15-17 inches

Weight: 18 pounds (male), 15-17 pounds (female)

Life Expectancy: 12-15 years

Dalmatian

The large, distinctive Dalmation is active and athletic, with a seemingly unlimited energy reserve. They can easily get into mischief if they don’t get enough physical exercise and mental stimulation.

While they can keep up with fast runners, they’re equally comfortable with steady paces over longer distances. It’s best to stick to soft trails for long runs, however, as the Dalmation has a tendency to hit the ground hard, due to their size.

Dalmatian Summary

Dalmatian Overview

Temperament: Dignified, Smart, Outgoing

Height: 19-24 inches

Weight: 45-70 pounds

Life Expectancy: 11-13 years

Alaskan Malamute

A thick coat and stocky build makes the Alaskan malamute a perfect dog for cold-weather runners. Built to be a sled dog, this affectionate, playful breed is born to work and loves physical activity.

They weren’t bred for racing, but are suited to steady paces over any distance.

Alaskan Malamute Summary

Alaskan Malamute Overview

Temperament: Affectionate, Loyal, Playful

Height: 25 inches (male), 23 inches (female)

Weight: 85 pounds (male), 75 pounds (female)

Life Expectancy: 10-14 years

Vizsla

Thanks to their impressive stamina and hunting background, the sleek, graceful vizsla is hailed as the best dog breed for any type of runner by many dog trainers. Warmer climates, hard surfaces and long distances are no obstacles to this breed, which needs at least 30 minutes of active exercise every day, including plenty of opportunities to run hard off-leash.

Just as important as physical activity is mental stimulation, so you should incorporate training into their routine as well.

Vizsla Summary

Vizsla Overview

Temperament: Affectionate, Gentle, Energetic

Height: 22-24 inches (male), 21-23 inches (female)

Weight: 55-60 pounds (male), 44-55 pounds (female)

Life Expectancy: 12-14 years

Australian Shepherd

The Australian shepherd (the cowboy’s herding dog of choice, according to the AKC) has enough energy to keep up with the most active of owners. Agile and sure-footed, they are particularly adept on trails with obstacles.

Similarly, they get a kick out of competing in canine events like obedience, herding or agility trials, or dock diving.

Australian Shepherd Summary

Australian Shepherd Overview

Temperament: Smart, Work-Oriented, Exuberant

Height: 20-23 inches (male), 18-21 inches (female)

Weight: 50-65 pounds (male), 40-55 pounds (female)

Life Expectancy: 12-15 years

German Shorthaired Pointer

The enthusiastic German shorthaired pointer thrives on strenuous exercise, loves spending time outdoors with their owners, and has the durability, energy and speed required of a great all-around running dog.

If you like to mix up your fitness schedule with long, steady runs, speedy sprints and intense trail sessions, the German shorthaired pointer is a solid choice. Whatever you do — they also love dog sports and swimming — the AKC recommends ample physical activity twice per day.

German Shorthaired Pointer Summary

German Shorthaired Pointer Overview

Temperament: Friendly, Smart, Willing to Please

Height: 23-25 inches (male), 21-23 inches (female)

Weight: 55-70 pounds (male), 45-60 pounds (female)

Life Expectancy: 10-12 years

English Springer Spaniel

Bred for long working days with humans in the field, the English springer spaniel is a devoted people-pleaser, thrives on attention and has bags of energy. They love — and need — daily outdoor activities, including long walks, hikes, play sessions, swims and runs.

Because the springer is by nature an explorer, early socialization and puppy training classes may help the owner stay in control during runs and other outdoor adventures.

English Springer Spaniel Summary

English Springer Spaniel Overview

Temperament: Friendly, Playful, Obedient

Height: 20 inches (male), 19 inches (female)

Weight: 50 pounds (male), 40 pounds (female)

Life Expectancy: 12-14 years

Doberman Pinscher

Compact and muscular, the Doberman pinscher loves intense daily exercise and challenging mental activity, plus they have more than enough energy to match the fittest human runners.

The AKC recommends socialization and obedience training from puppyhood to ensure this strong dog’s destructive streak is kept in check.

Doberman Pinscher Summary

Doberman Pinscher Overview

Temperament: Loyal, Fearless, Alert

Height: 26-28 inches (male), 24-26 inches (female)

Weight: 75-100 pounds (male), 60-90 pounds (female)

Life Expectancy: 10-12 years

Beagle

The most famous beagle of all preferred chilling on a doghouse roof to strenuous exercise, but most beagles have more energy than Snoopy. A naturally active, fast-paced breed, they need plenty of physical activity (the AKC recommends at least an hour per day) and are well-suited to brisk, short runs with their owner.

As a breed bred to hunt in packs, they are also comfortable running in groups, including with other dogs.

Beagle Summary

Beagle Overview

Temperament: Friendly, Curious, Merry

Height: 13-15 inches

Weight: 20-30 pounds

Life Expectancy: 10-15 years

Pharaoh Hound

The pharaoh hound is more than a good running buddy — they can even help you step up your training. (If they had a running mantra, it would be “the faster, the better.”) This breed doesn’t need to run for miles every day, but regular short, brisk runs definitely do the trick.

Be aware, however, that (like most hounds) this is a hunting dog, so they may get easily distracted by rabbits, squirrels and other small prey that you may encounter when you’re out.

Pharaoh Hound Summary

Pharaoh Hound Overview

Temperament: Friendly, Smart, Noble

Height: 23-25 inches (male), 21-24 inches (female)

Weight: 45-55 pounds

Life Expectancy: 12-14 years

Bernese Mountain Dog

The mighty, good-natured Bernese mountain dog is built for hard work and loves outdoor activities, including hikes, long walks, runs, carting and canine sports like agility and herding.

The AKC recommends at least a half-hour of moderate exercise every day for a happy, healthy Berner — the perfect opportunity for a run for two.

Bernese Mountain Dog Summary

Bernese Mountain Dog Overview

Temperament: Good-Natured, Calm, Strong

Height: 25-27.5 inches (male), 23-26 inches (female)

Weight: 80-115 pounds (male), 70-95 pounds (female)

Life Expectancy: 7-10 years

American Foxhound

Bred to spend long hours chasing after prey, the sweet-natured American foxhound is known for their endurance and speed, and they love to exercise. In fact, if they don’t get at least an hour or two of lively physical activity each day, they may become bored and look for more destructive ways to entertain themselves.

The AKC warns against letting them loose in an area that’s not securely fenced, so keep them on-leash during all runs. The American foxhound is also adaptable; thanks to their short, easy-care coat, they can run in both cold and hot weather.

American Foxhound Summary

American Foxhound Overview

Temperament: Independent, Easy-Going, Sweet-Tempered

Height: 22-25 inches (male), 21-24 inches (female)

Weight: 65-70 pounds (male), 60-65 pounds (female)

Life Expectancy: 11-13 years

Saluki

The AKC describes salukis — the hunting hounds of kings for thousands of years — as “swift and agile sprinters who love a good chase.” In fact, the breed is one of the fastest in the world; they’re also extremely adaptable and can live (and run) in any climate.

They need daily physical activity to stay fit and keep boredom at bay, but like many other breeds, they should be kept on a leash or in a well-fenced yard to keep them safely away from traffic.

Saluki Summary

Saluki Overview

Temperament: Gentle, Dignified, Independent-Minded

Height: 23-28 inches (male), considerably smaller (female)

Weight: 40-65 pounds

Life Expectancy: 10-17 years

Standard Poodle

The standard poodle is active and intelligent, and is guaranteed to bring fun to your run due to their fun-loving approach to life. As soon as they’re trained to run off-leash, you can enjoy long, steady runs in a range of environments, from mucky trails to shallow streams.

The AKC notes that most poodles love to get in the water at every opportunity, so swimming is another great activity for them.

Standard Poodle Summary

Standard Poodle Overview

Temperament: Active, Proud, Very Smart

Height: Over 15 inches

Weight: 60-70 pounds (male), 40-50 pounds (female)

Life Expectancy: 10-18 years

Belgian Malinois

Happiest when they have company, the loyal, strong, confident Belgian malinois needs daily physical activity — and walking or running alone in the backyard isn’t enough.

The key to their happiness is plenty of exercise by their owner’s side, so running is perfect — whatever the terrain or distance. This breed also loves hiking, agility, tracking, herding and obedience.

Belgian Malinois Summary

Belgian Malinois Overview

Temperament: Confident, Smart, Hardworking

Height: 24-26 inches (male), 22-24 inches (female)

Weight: 60-80 pounds (male), 40-60 pounds (female)

Life Expectancy: 14-16 years

Golden Retriever

One of America’s most popular dog breeds, the golden retriever is friendly, loyal and easy to train — with a strong body built for any running distance. However, you should check with your veterinarian before embarking on regular high-impact activity as it might cause stress to this large dog’s joints.

Like most sporting breeds, the golden retriever needs plenty of daily exercise — mix it up by adding agility, obedience and tracking to your running schedule.

Golden Retriever Summary

Golden Retriever Overview

Temperament: Friendly, Intelligent, Devoted

Height: 23-24 inches (male), 21.5-22.5 inches (male)

Weight: 65-75 pounds (male), 55-65 pounds (female)

Life Expectancy: 10-12 years

Border Collie

The border collie is a medium-sized ball of energy — one who will make running a pleasure and keep you on your toes with their darting and ducking. Ideal for long steady runs, the border collie can also withstand running in the cold, although dense snow is best avoided as it can get trapped in their fur.

The perfect breed for an active owner, they typically excel in herding events, obedience, agility, rally and tracking competitions, and sports such as frisbee and flyball.

Border Collie Summary

Border Collie Overview

Temperament: Affectionate, Smart, Energetic

Height: 19-22 inches (male), 18-21 inches (female)

Weight: 30-55 pounds

Life Expectancy: 12-15 years

Parson Russell Terrier

The courageous, friendly, playful Parson Russell terrier (formerly known as the Jack Russell) needs some training before going on runs, as this hunter-at-heart has a tendency to get sidetracked chasing prey.

But once trained, they can be a great companion for long, steady runs. And if you don’t want to completely quell your Parson Russell terrier’s hunting instinct, you can always keep them on the leash.

Parson Russell Terrier Summary

Parson Russell Terrier Overview

Temperament: Friendly, Clever Athletic

Height: 14 inches (male), 13 inches (female)

Weight: 13-17 pounds

Life Expectancy: 13-15 years

English Setter

The medium-sized, good-tempered English setter has an energetic nature and inherent athleticism not immediately apparent from its graceful good looks. A vigorous daily run will hit their daily exercise quota, but they also enjoy long walks and hikes.

As they have a keen nose and hunting instinct, they can quickly get into trouble if not supervised, so it’s a good idea to start training in puppyhood and adopt a consistent approach.

English Setter Summary

English Setter Overview

Temperament: Friendly, Mellow, Merry

Height: 25-27 inches (male), 23-25 inches (female)

Weight: 65-80 pounds (male), 45-55 pounds (female)

Life Expectancy: 12 years

German Shepherd

As a very active and athletic breed, the German shepherd requires lots of exercise for their physical and mental well-being. Their natural pace is an easy one, but they can quickly build speed to match a fast human companion.

The German shepherd’s thick coat means running in the cold is no issue, and they also enjoy taking part in canine activities like agility, herding, tracking and dock diving.

German Shepherd Summary

German Shepherd Overview

Temperament: Confident, Courageous, Smart

Height: 24-26 inches (male), 22-24 inches (female)

Weight: 65-90 pounds (male), 50-70 pounds (female)

Life Expectancy: 7-10 years

Portuguese Water Dog

The Portuguese water dog was bred to be a fisherman’s companion and is most at home in water, but they also relish a long run — and the more obstacles, the better.

Basically, this hardworking, versatile breed is always willing to tackle challenges of any sort, so activities like obedience, agility, rally, dock diving and tracking are other good ways to keep them physically and mentally satiated.

Portuguese Water Dog Summary

Portuguese Water Dog Overview

Temperament: Affectionate, Adventurous, Athletic

Height: 20-23 inches (male), 17-21 inches (female)

Weight: 42-60 pounds (male), 35-50 pounds (female)

Life Expectancy: 11-13 years