Have you ever wanted to take a dog with you on a long-distance run but were worried they wouldn’t be able to keep up? If so, this blog post is for you!
There are plenty of factors to consider when choosing the perfect breed, including size, speed, and temperament. However, if you’re looking for a loyal and enthusiastic running partner who can keep up with your latest marathon obsession, these five dog breeds should be the top contenders on your list!
Read More: Ultimate Guide to Running with Dogs
1. Weimaraners
Weimaraners are a member of the gun dog family and were originally bred to hunt in the dense forests of Germany. They have naturally good endurance, high energy levels and are fearless with a friendly disposition.
Running alongside their owner is an activity Weimaraners love as it gives them plenty of exercises and mental stimulation. In fact, they seem to run like they’re chasing “something” down!
Of course, even if you don’t plan on running long distances with your Weimaraner, they excel at other athletic events, too, including agility competitions. However, be aware that this breed does need regular exercise and requires a significant daily commitment from its owners.
2. Vizslas
Vizslas are a medium-sized hunting breed initially bred in Hungary as bird dogs. They have finely tuned sight and hearing senses and are known to have tremendous endurance, stamina, and speed, which is needed for long-distance running.
Today these dogs are popular, not just because of their excellent pointing and retrieving abilities but also because they have gentle and friendly personalities.
Vizslas love outdoor activities like hiking or running long distances. So, whether you’re looking for a dog to keep up with your marathon training or to run alongside you through the woods, Vizslas would be a perfect option!
However, make sure you can dedicate enough time to this energetic and affectionate breed as they thrive when they’re included as an active member of the family.
3. Border Collies
No surprise that Border Collies make this list. They were originally bred to round up and herd sheep. But that’s not the reason they’re considered one of the best dogs for running!
These intelligent, athletic, and highly dedicated dogs love having a job to do. And their energetic nature means they have no problem accompanying you on long-distance runs or hikes. You just need to make sure you spend plenty of time training them right from the start.
Border Collies can run with you anywhere from 10k up to marathon distances! In fact, a friend of mine takes his Collie with him every time he runs a marathon.
Border Collies have incredibly high energy and an intense work ethic, hence why many dog owners also call them a workaholic. A Collie without work can become destructive. So they must have enough daily exercise, whether it be in the form of walking, hiking, jogging, or running.
4. Dalmatians
Dalmatians were originally bred in the historical region of Dalmatia, Croatia, hence their name. They’re best known as firehouse mascots because they were historically harnessed to help clear paths for horses and firefighters during fires.
Dalmatians have incredible stamina and endurance, making them a great choice if you’re looking for a dog to run with! Plus, they enjoy going on long walks or hikes too, so it certainly is a win-win if you’re into outdoor activities!
Dalmatians can easily become high-strung, though, so they need plenty of exercise, training, and playtime to keep them happy. In fact, you should set aside some time each day for both exercise and fun with your Dalmatian to avoid behavioral issues.
5. German Shorthaired Pointers
German Shorthaired Pointers (GSPs) are another energetic dog breed that loves running and hiking. Also known for their hunting instincts, German Shorthaired Pointers were initially bred as versatile gun dogs to hunt all kinds of game, including raccoons, upland birds, waterfowls, rabbits, and even deer!
German Shorthaired Pointers have an average top speed of 30 miles per hour! But that’s not why these dogs make a perfect choice if you want to train them to become long-distance runners. It’s because they have incredible stamina and endurance levels!
German Shorthaired Pointers require plenty of exercises each day, whether it’s long-distance running or short walks. And if you want your GSP to reach full potential physically and mentally, make sure you give them enough daily activity so that they can run with you on those long trails!
The Bottom Line
Dogs have always been loyal companions to humans, and they are also the best running partners you can find. Not only will they provide you unconditional love and companionship, but they will also motivate you to help keep you going on those long runs!
With so many breeds out there, it may not be easy to decide which is suitable for you. However, these five dog breeds should definitely make the top contenders when considering who would be perfect at keeping up with your marathon obsession: Weimaraners, Vizslas, Border Collies, Dalmatians, and German Shorthaired Pointers.
The bottom line? Any of the above dogs are excellent long-distance running partners. They’re all great athletes who are always up for any challenges and would be more than happy to run alongside you on your upcoming and future marathon runs!
