Dog Activity 2023: Here are the 10 least and most active breeds of adorable dog - from Chow Chow to Border Collie š¶
David Hepburn
·5-min read
Active dogs are great for some owners - but others may be grateful for a pet pup that loves plenty of time curled up at home. (Photo: Canva/Getty Images)
Plenty of us decided to welcome new four-legged friends into our homes in the last couple of years ā according to Kennel Club figures dog ownership soared ā and post-lockdown demand for puppies remains high.
There are a whopping 221 different breeds of pedigree dog to choose from, alongside numerous crossbreeds, so thereās plenty of thinking to do before you select your familyās latest addition.
For some of us, the thought of leaving the house to lift weights or run on a treadmill at the gym is not an appealing thought.
Dalmatians are great exercisers and ideally need two hours of physical activity per day. Once used as ācarriage dogsā to guard the passengers and reassure the horses in the stable at night, running long distances is in their DNA. While not the quickest of sprinters, Dalmatians have tonnes of energy. They will truly benefit from long trots in the countryside and mentally stimulating activities. (Photo: Canva/Getty Images)
Most dogs, however, love dashing out for some good exercise ā at the sound of the word āwalkiesā, they jump up and down in jubilation, eager to get their daily dose of physical activity.
If you are thinking about getting a dog yourself, you need to know that it is crucial to set aside some time for them to walk and run around in an open space ā exercise is a fundamental part of a dogās routine.
Not only does a sprint in the park do wonders to your friendās morale, but it also helps them keep healthy and in shape.
That said, while all dog breeds need exercise, some require more physical activity than others.
Bright, strong and obedient, itās no wonder that German Shepherds are often used in police forces. They are very loyal companions that are not well-suited to apartment life and require at least a couple of hours of exercise every day. Get them stuck in engaging and physically demanding activities ā you will soon discover that they are great fun to both train and go on adventures with. (Photo: Canva/Getty Images)
To help, the experts at veterinary retailer VioVet have put together a list of the dogs that need the most and the least exercise, which will also allow you to decide which breed would best suit your lifestyle.
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Starting with the most active dogs, the Labrador is a very friendly, loved and popular dog that requires a lot of physical activity. Alongside frequent walks by the beach or in the countryside, it also enjoys playing fetch (as the name suggests!) and splashing about in water. Just like Labradors, Golden Retrievers have a soft spot for swimming too. Both very active and clever, they can easily engage in strenuous activities ā so make sure you make allowances for that.
If you ever ask a class of dog breeds whether they enjoy working, Border Collies will certainly raise their paw. Often involved in sheep herding, these pooches are always on the move and are quick to complete their tasks. To keep them physically and mentally stimulated, make sure to provide them with lots of exercise. With all that energy, it takes quite a while to wear them out. (Photo: Canva/Getty Images)
There is no hiding that it is difficult to tire out a Siberian Husky. Usually bred to pull heavy sledges and travel long distances in challenging climates, this dog breed has buckets of energy. A Siberian Husky that is not adequately exercised may even dig up gardens or escape. Therefore, it is important to schedule a daily two-hour walk or run and allow them to enjoy some satisfactory physical activity. (Photo: Canva/Getty Images)
Possibly one of the most regal-looking breed dogs out there, King Charles Spaniels enjoy sitting on their throne most of the time. Due to their generally relaxed nature, there is no need to take them on kilometric walks ā short strolls will do just fine. That said, they also love some playtime and being around both adults and children. (Photo: Canva/Getty Images)
Tiny and loud, Chihuahuas are small dogs with big attitudes and huge personalities. Weighing just under three kilos on average, it goes without saying that they do not need hours and hours of physical activity. A stroll in the park will do the job, and they will then be ready to head back home without any complaints. (Photo: Canva/Getty Images)
Moving to the least active dogs - they may well be intelligent and energetic dogs, but the little Maltese is more than satisfied with a 30-minute walk down the road or a short run in the garden. Indeed, it is plenty of exercise for this adorable dog breed. Once the pampered babies of noble ladies of the Roman Empire, it is no surprise that the little Maltese enjoys relaxing in its cosy abode. (Photo: Canva/Getty Images)
Famous for their friendly and wrinkly face, the Chow Chow is the perfect cuddly companion for a night in. They are also good dogs for people who have very busy routines, as they only require one walk per day to keep in shape and to socialise with fellow pooches. Moreover, they tend to be quite independent. This means that you do not need to stimulate them as much to keep them entertained. (Photo: Canva/Getty Images)
More than happy to sit on your lap and be stroked all day, the cloud-like Bichon Frise is the perfect companion for elderly owners or dog lovers with mobility issues. A short, half-an-hour daily walk is all the Bichon Frise asks for, and will quite gladly spend the rest of their day grooming its fluffy curls. (Photo: Canva/Getty Images)
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