Looks like you couldn’t find a buddy that could match your speed or motivate you enough to get up and go for a run. Don’t worry. A four-legged buddy can. There’s a different kind of dog breed for different kinds of runners as well. And irrespective of the breed, none will judge you for your form or that extra snack break —you just need to keep up with their zoomies!
The primary factors that matter for a dog breed to be a great running partner are temperament, trainability, energy levels, body type and climate tolerance. You need a dog that can be trained to run with you off the leash, not bark or chase strangers, keep up with you and motivate you to get your bum off the sofa and put on the running shoes.
Here are some of the best dog breeds for runners – (1)
Labrador Retriever
The reason they are one of the most popular breeds in the US may be that they are great companions for runners. They are not very fast and will probably be the perfect match for your speed. Plus, they come with a kind and gentle temperament, which makes them highly trainable (and you don’t want a dog that goes around barking at everyone).
German Shorthaired Pointers
If you’re a sprinter, then these dogs are for you. They were bred for hunting and retrieving. Hence, running fast and over long distances is in their blood. The only difficulty you might face is matching their speed at times, but didn’t you want a partner that pushes you anyway?
Belgian Malinois
Having spent a significant time as sheepherders back in the day, these dogs have developed an excellent work ethic. It is what makes them great companions for disciplined runners. They won’t wear out easily, especially before completing a task which in your case would be achieving your target miles for the day.
Pit Bulls
If you’re looking for a dog that can run marathons with you, Pit Bulls may not be the ones but if you want a dog that can match your speed and even challenge you to push your limits in sprinting, they can be a great fit. The strong muscles and close-to-the-ground body type helps them be good at sprinting.
German Shepherds
German Shepherds are known for being one of the best police dogs. This is because they are great at physically demanding jobs and are highly trainable. The same attributes help them be great running companions as well. The fact that they require a good amount of daily exercise to be healthy, will motivate you to get up and go for a walk every day.
Weimaraner
Weimaraners require a lot of physical exercise to be stimulated enough. A daily sprint is the perfect way to give it to them. It will become a perfect reason for you to hit the park as well. Their long and muscular legs will give you company for both fast and long runs.
Greyhound
Lastly, how can you not have the fastest dog breed in the world on the list? There is no better breed if you are a sprinter who needs company. They can reach up to 45 miles per hour. Given that the average human running speed is around 13-15kmph and the average sprinting speed is around 21-25kmph, they shouldn’t have any trouble matching your speed.
While these are our top picks, you may also look at breeds like –
Vizslas
Brittany Spaniel
Border Collies
Jack Russell Terrier
Dalmatians
Among other benefits, having a cute dog running beside you could also get some attention from all the single ladies or guys (depending on what you’re into).
What Dog Breed Has the Best Endurance?
If there was a breed specifically bred for running long distances, it would be the Siberian Husky. If you’re a marathoner and are looking for a four-legged companion who can stay with you till the end, you can go for a Siberian Husky. But they may not be the best option if you live in a region with a warm climate as they are made for the cold.
Many other dogs boast great endurance as well. They include Australian Cattle Dog, Portuguese Water Dog, Vizsla, Labrador Retriever, etc.
Best Dog Breeds for Running Long Distances
There are many dog breeds that you can choose from for a long-distance running companion. They include Dalmatian, Border Collie, German Shorthaired Pointer, Labrador Retriever, Poodle, Weimaraner, Brittany Spaniel, Belgian Malinois, etc.
How to Train a Dog to Run with You
If we’ve helped you choose the perfect dog for running for you, we’ll help you train the dog for the job as well. Here’s how to do it – (2)
Start slow – Begin with short walks in a familiar locality. Increase the duration and speed gradually.
Take breaks – If your dog is asking for a break, take one. Allow as many breaks as needed.
Pay attention – Keep observing your dog’s body language for any signs of discomfort during the walk.
Reward your dog – Use positive reinforcements like treats, praises and rewards for your dog to associate the walk/run with a good experience.
Teach basic commands – Teach your dog basic commands like sit, stay, walk, etc. Make sure your dog knows all of them during your initial few walks.
Leash training – Include leash training in your basic commands. We’ve written an entire article on how to do it for you. Click here to read. (insert a hyperlink to the blog - How to Teach Your Dog to Walk on a Leash)
The main goal is to make sure that the run is a positive experience for your dog. So, make sure that you do everything in the beginning to make them feel comfortable. Once you’ve completed a few runs with them, you can try new terrains and longer distances. And don’t forget to keep them hydrated at all times.
More About Spot Pet Insurance
Runners have many dog breed options to choose from for a companion based on their personality and needs. Once you’ve developed a routine with your dog, you’ll probably prefer your dog over human companionship for running every time. But it can only be possible if your is healthy. An injured or ill dog won’t be the best option for running with.
Dogs are prone to multiple illnesses and injuries during their lifetime. There is a chance that they may pick up some germs during the run itself. It may be a minor illness but at times it can be severe, and the treatment can involve diagnostics which include blood and urine testing, radiographs (X-rays), and possibly ultrasounds, followed by medications, prescription diets and follow-up vet visits. Seems like a lot of expenditure, doesn’t it?
We wouldn’t want you to worry about the treatment costs when your pet is sick or injured. So, we’ve got a solution for you. With pet health insurance you can save up to 90% of all these costs.
Spot accident and illness plans can be used with any licensed vet in Canada or the U.S. Whether you are home, or traveling to the U.S., veterinary services your pet receives for the diagnosis, treatment, or management of covered conditions can be eligible for reimbursement. Spot’s accident and illness plans can help cover a variety of conditions including broken bones, lacerations, aggression, kidney disease, diabetes, and more. With the addition of Wellness Riders for an extra cost, you can also receive reimbursements for wellness exams, certain vaccinations, dental cleanings, and more.
Learn more about dog insurance or get a free quote!
