10 Best dogs to run with & breeds that love to run

If you enjoy running and you’re looking for a dog that would like to tag along, there are some breeds that would be more suited for this than others. I encourage you to check local animal rescues and shelters for a dog that matches your needs. The best dogs to run with have lots of energy and are very social.

You can often find a breed specific rescue (for almost all breeds) within 200 miles of your home- less if you live near a large metropolitan area. You may also find a mixed breed in a shelter that has a lot of the same qualities as the best dogs to run with.

The first thing you want to remember is that different dogs are good for different types of runners. A dog that is good for fast, short distances may not be the best for slower paced, longer runs. That’s why this list includes a variety.

Top 10 Best Dogs To Run With

1. Weimaraner

Weimaraners were originally bred as hunting dogs. They are large, athletic canines, and they have high energy. They are good for running fast, as they were bred to run down deer and other animals.

Their powerful muscles mean that the Weimaraner can also run long distances, which is why they are popular hunting dogs. These dogs need exercise. This means they would not be suitable for the casual runner. They require lots of socialization, so this is an excellent dog for families with a yard.

These dogs are very intelligent, making them easy to train. Since they are hunting dogs, they may chase prey while you’re out and about. Weimaraners need a firm hand to keep them from killing cats, squirrels, and other little furry animals.

2. Vizslas

Another friendly, family dog is the Vizslas. This dog was bred to be a hunting dog. It’s primary job when hunting is as a retriever. They are a social breed and do not do well being left alone very often.

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This dog is extremely friendly with people, other dogs, and other animal types. Although he is a hunting dog, he doesn’t have as much of a prey drive as the Weimaraner. This is another active dog that needs to be exercised.

You either need to be an avid runner, or have a large yard for play if you’re thinking about adopting a Vizslas. This dog is good for long, steady runs. He is also good for short, fast runs.

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3. Labrador Retrievers

Labs are extremely popular dogs in the United States. They are originally bred to assist fisherman.

They could be trained to fetch nets, ropes, and many other items. They are mainly used now to retrieve water fowl for their hunters.

Labrador Retrievers are very friendly. They usually will not make good watch dogs because of their extremely friendly nature. However, this makes them excellent family dogs.

They have high energy and need to be walked frequently, or have access to a nice yard to play in. They are intelligent and easy to train. Labs are good for long distance, slower runs. They are equally as good in shorter, faster runs.

4. Whippets

These dogs are fast and agile. They are good at running cross-country, as well as on short, fast runs. These dogs are active and need to be exercised regularly.

Whippets are friendly and social. They do not like being left alone. This breed is intelligent and easy to train. They were originally bred to hunt rabbits, so they need to be trained to not chase and kill small, furry animals.

This breed is one of the best dogs to run with, as they are commonly used as racing dogs. I don’t know if you need any more convincing than this that they are great companions for runners.

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