The Best Dog Breeds to Run With

If you are searching for the perfect running partner, you may find yourself looking for something with four legs. Dogs are always available and can adapt to your schedule and pace much more easily than a human partner. Certain breeds of dogs make better running companions than others. A good canine running partner possesses stamina, endurance, speed, a desire to run and the willingness to do so beside you while on a leash.

  1. Dalmatian

    • Dalmatian Running

      Originally bred to run with horse-drawn carriages, Dalmatians possess speed, endurance and the ability to pace themselves. Since running was the initial purpose of this breed, they are a natural running partner. They can run for miles at a steady pace and are perfect for the long distance runner. Dalmatians typically weigh 40 to 60 pounds.

    Labrador Retriever

    • Labrador Running

      Labrador retrievers, often referred to as "Labradors" or "Labs," are energetic and friendly dogs with gentle dispositions. They possess high stamina and are fast runners. Their disposition makes them great running partners because the runner does not need to be concerned with how the dog may react when encountering other people and animals. Young or untrained Labradors may have a tendency to pull. Labradors are typically between 55 and 75 pounds.

    Rhodesian Ridgeback

    • Rhodesian ridgebacks love to run and possess the ability to run for long distances at fast speeds. They tend to be undemonstrative around strangers, a desirable quality in a running dog as it keeps them from wanting to interact with everyone you pass; this can be a problem when running with very friendly and outgoing dogs, such as Labradors. Rhodesian ridgebacks possess a lot of energy but tend to become calmer as they age. Adults typically weigh between 70 and 85 pounds.

    Border Collie

    • Border Collie Running

      Border collies possess a seemingly endless amount of energy. If you need to condition yourself for a marathon, this breed will keep you motivated and going (even if only to prevent your dog from destroying your home). Border collies need a lot of exercise or they may become destructive. They have an innate compulsion to herd, which may cause them to chase after moving objects (including people and cars). If you are willing and able to provide them with sufficient exercise and attention, border collies can make extremely rewarding companions. Border collies are smaller than most other breeds that make excellent running companions and weigh 30 to 45 pounds.

    Siberian Husky

    • Siberian Husky Running

      Siberian huskies were bred to run for miles while carrying light loads. Siberian huskies possess an abundance of energy and serve as tireless running partners. Provided you live in a cold enough location, these dogs will gladly race beside you for miles. They often have a tendency to pull, so training may be necessary to teach them to run beside you rather than attempt to drag you like a sled. Their abundant energy and love of running makes them great running companions. Siberian huskies usually weigh between 35 and 60 pounds.