Dogs Running Buddies 2023: Here are the 10 breeds of adorable dog that make great exercise partners - including the loving Labrador 🐶
David Hepburn
·3-min read
Some dogs have all the right attributes to make great running partners. (Photo: Canva/Getty Images)
A huge number of us decided to welcome new pups into our homes over the last couple of years – according to Kennel Club figures dog ownership soared over the global pandemic.
There are a whopping 221 different breeds of pedigree dog to choose from, alongside numerous crossbreeds, so there’s plenty of thinking to do before you select your family’s latest addition.
There’s even academic guidance to seek out, with Psychologist Stanley Coren’s book ‘The Intelligence of Dogs’ ranking breeds by instincts, obedience, and the ability to adapt.
Suited to long and steady runs, the research found that Golden Retrievers are the best dog for a running partner. The Golden Retrievers’ friendly attitude towards strangers is a bonus for those running in crowded areas, where there will be interactions with other runners and dog walkers. (Photo: Canva/Getty Images)
One thing to take into consideration is that certain breeds will suit owners with particular lifestyles – and their specific hobbies.
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Labradors are the perfect running companion for beginners, thanks to their friendly temperament and easy-to-train nature. They possess several great traits that make them the ideal running companion for those new to the outdoor activity, while their patience and enthusiastic temperament can be a great moral boost on longer runs. (Photo: Canva/Getty Images)
Athletic clothing retailer lululemon recently revealed a list of the top dog breeds and their aptitude for running, to find the best furry running partners.
They analysed a variety of metrics including the types of run they would be suited to, temperament, size, life span, friendliness, trainability, popularity and living requirements.
So, here are the 10 breeds of dog that make perfect exercise buddies.
The Border Collie is the world's most intelligent breed of dog and, while they are more used to chase after sheep, will also be delighted to run alongside their owner for miles. (Photo: Canva/Getty Images)
For city dwellers, Poodles are a perfect hypoallergenic breed suitable for apartment living as well as a daily run. They have plenty of energy, intelligence, and obedience, making them an ideal running companion. (Photo: Canva/Getty Images)
German Shepherds are strong and energetic, eager to keep pace with even the most advanced of runners. These intelligent dogs require good training to ensure their safety and avoid unpredictable behaviour around strangers. (Photo: Canva/Getty Images)
Greyhounds are members of the sighthound family and are one of the more obvious running dogs. They are best for faster runners - matching your speed quite easily but finding a light jog on lead a little slow. (Photo: Canva/Getty Images)
Similar to their close cousin the Greyhound, the Whippet is a natural runner - although they are better suited to longer runs. (Photo: Canva/Getty Images)
For advanced runners, Weimaraners are an ideal dog breed whose medium and strong-muscled build is suited to more strenuous activity than other breeds. They need a huge amount of both exercise and mental stimulation and have an innate desire to be active for long periods of time with their owner. (Photo: Canva/Getty Images)
Boxers love to run, but caution should be exercised in the summer months. These dogs do need regular breaks in hot weather and plenty of water. Scheduling runs for first thing in the morning or last thing at night when it is cooler is the safest policy. (Photo: Canva/Getty Images)
The research showed that Springer Spaniels are best suited to long and steady runs, although crowded areas are best avoided. Not only does running help maintain your dog’s weight and improve muscle tone, but it also provides mental stimulation and an outlet for their energy. (Photo: Canva/Getty Images)
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