Dogs were built to run in packs, just like their ancestor, the wolf. This makes them the perfect running partner. However, when figuring out the best dogs for running companions, there are several factors to take into account—and it starts with dog breeds.

Below, we’ll get into finding the best dog breeds for running and how to know whether you’re 4-legged friend is built to go long-distance, short-distance, or just for jogs around the park.

The Best Dogs for Running Companions

In this article, we are going to dive into the best dog breeds for whatever distance or running style you gravitate towards. However, remember, these are general observations.

Just as humans break the mold against their genetics and disposition, the best running dog breeds can as well. You might find one dog breed built for short distances that can go for long days, just as you might find a well-trained running dog for long distances that is built better for sprinting.

TLDR: Quick List of the Best Running Dogs Breeds:

1. Weimaraner: Best Large Dog Breed for Running
2. Dalmatian: Best for Short-to-Mid Distance Runs
3. Vizsla: Best Dog Breed for Long Distances
4. Rhodesian Ridgeback: Best Running Dog Breed for Half Marathons
5. English Springer Spaniel: Best Running Dog Breed for 10K Distances
6. Siberian Husky: Best Dog Breed for Long Distance Running (Except in Warm Temperatures)
7. German Shorthaired Pointer: Best Small Dog Breed for Long Distance Running

Large Dog Breeds for Running

1. Weimaraner

They are great for long, steady-paced runs. Typically high energy dogs, Weimaraners were originally used for hunting large game such as boar, bear, and deer. These days, however, they are used to hunt smaller game such as fox, rabbits, and birds. Weimaraners are athletic with a slick short-haired coat and muscular stature. The short coat helps keep them cool for those who like to run in the hotter months.

And they are quite versatile! They are comfortable running at faster speeds as well. In addition, Weimaraners also have webbed paws which makes them good swimmers. Triathpup anyone?

2. Dalmatian

Dalmatians are great for fast-paced, short distance to mid-distance runs (think 10K). They handle trails well due to their heavy run gait. The beloved “firefighters dog” was originally used as a carriage dog and guardian in Croatia and Dalmatia. Dalmatians also used to hunt numerous types of game. They share the same type of short hair as the Weimaraner and have an athletic build and great stamina.

3. Vizsla

Vizslas are a medium to large dog, typically very high energy. Vizslas are built for endurance – think half marathon to marathon distance. This makes them one of the best long-distance running dogs. They are also great retriever dogs. They too share a muscular build, with a slick short-haired coat. Vizslas have natural athleticism and are great for long adventures on the trails.

Any downsides to larger breeds?

The only major downside to larger breeds is that they can be predisposed to ailments such as hip dysplasia.

Medium-Sized Dog Breeds for Running

These dogs tend to be best for longer bouts given their smaller stature compared to large dog breeds.

4. Rhodesian Ridgeback

This is a medium to large breed, well known for its “ridge” along the spine. Rhodesian Ridgebacks are more muscular than Vizslas, and they are high energy. In fact, they were originally bred to hunt lions in South Africa. This is another dog that makes a great running companion for half or full marathon training.

5. English Springer Spaniel

English Springer Spaniels are a medium-sized hunting/sporting dog built for power, endurance, and agility. This dog is typically medium to high energy, perfect for mid-distance training such as the 10K. Depending on the energy and health of the individual dog, they may even be able to participate in half marathon training. After a couple of jogs with your pup, you’ll likely be able to gauge whether that’s a possibility.

6. Siberian Husky

Huskies are a dog breed built with endurance. These “sled dogs” are usually high energy. They come with long, thick fur, ideal for running long distances in the snow and trails in cold weather.

And because of their thick coat, huskies prefer shorter runs if the temperatures are on the hotter side. And if you’re taking your running buddy for a run in the heat, be sure your route has somewhere to cool down, like a stream, a calm river, or a lake.

7. German Shorthaired Pointer

German shorthaired pointers are medium-sized. They are a very high energy sporting dog with a smaller build. They’re one of the best long-distance running dogs you can find. They need a lot of energy expenditure daily, so they make a perfect running companion for this reason.

This list is in no way complete, but it’s certainly a start for some ideas!

Adopt a Good Running Dog

We here at TRE always recommend checking out your local shelter when you are ready to select a good running dog to join your family. Most shelters are overrun with dogs that are perfectly fit to join a family. You may find just what you are looking for in a “mutt,” as they tend to be the best of all worlds with fewer health issues compared to the full breeds.

And remember, just like us, dogs will need food and water for longer runs over 45 minutes. Always remember to bring water for both you and your dog. You can even have your dog carry her/his own water! You can purchase dog hydration packs such as this one or this one. 

Remember, Dogs Need Running Training too!

Although we have created a list of running dog breeds bred with traits that easily translate to running, dogs need running training, just as humans do. So, even if you are an experienced ultra runner, don’t expect your new pup to crush 26.2 with you right off the bat.

Even the best running dog breeds need training. 

Allow yourself time to train your dog and get him/her used to running and walking with a leash. The dog must learn to run beside you, not in front of you or behind you. You are taking the dog for a run, not the other way around! You are the leader here and the dog will innately want to follow you.

If you opt for a puppy versus an adult, talk with your veterinarian about your dog’s best age to start running. Generally, you shouldn’t start running with your puppy until he/she is six months, because it might affect their growing joints and muscles.

Choosing Your Dog

When selecting your dog, it is important to match that dog’s energy levels to your own. The “long-distance” or hunting dogs listed were bred for high energy which can consist of 8 hours or more of running and sniffing out game.

If you are training strictly for a 5K, a “high energy” dog is not likely to be a great training partner for you. For that training, you want more of a medium-energy dog. If you are feeling pooped after a training run, you want that dog to be pooped as well.

In fact, most behavior problems that arise in dogs are due to lack of energy expenditure by the owner (not for a lack of love…who knew?!). If their energy is not fully drained on a daily basis, dogs use extra energy to do other things such as, oh I don’t know, ruin your furniture, your favorite stilettos, or your drywall.

Or they may take a different route and pace uncontrollably, or just exhibit general stress. Finding a dog that matches your energy level will lead to a long happy life for the dog and a strong everlasting bond between.

Tips for Selecting the Best Dog for Runners

Selecting the best energy style of dog for you will take some patience. Not all dogs fit neatly into one energy category. And how dogs behave as puppies might not be indicative of their true energy level. A dog might be jumping around when you first meet them at the shelter, but they might not actually be a high energy dog.

And on that note, when selecting a dog or puppy, be sure to wait for everyone (including yourself) to calm down, and refrain from using a high pitched voice. The high energy in your voice will only excite the dog more, making it harder for the dog, and the dogs around, to calm down.

Dogs communicate through body language, energy, and smell. You want the dog to see you as a “pack leader.” Most pack leaders have high energy but are simultaneously calm and assertive. Taking the time to calm yourself will help the dog match your calm energy.

Choose One of the Best Dog Breeds for Running

Finding the right running dog breed will play a big part in your training and your pup’s happiness. Choose the wrong dog, and they won’t want to go out and train for hours on end with you. Choose the right one, and you might have just found your new best friend.