47 breeds · updated Oct 2026

Best dog breeds for running and jogging

The best running partner has plenty of stamina, a sturdy build and the temperament to trot beside you instead of pulling or wandering. Many sporting and herding breeds fit the bill, because they were developed to work for hours.

This list includes breeds rated 4 or 5 for both energy and exercise needs, leaves out toy breeds and puts those with the highest exercise needs first. A high rating shows appetite for activity, not readiness to run. Flat-faced dogs, puppies, seniors and dogs with joint problems may not be suited to it, so check with your vet before you start.

Puppies in particular need to wait until their growth plates begin to close, which happens at different ages depending on the breed and size. Heat is the other big limit. Dogs overheat more easily than people, so a breed's heat rating matters as much as its energy.

  1. 1

    Australian Cattle Dog

    Herding · Medium · 35–50 lb (16–23 kg)

    The Australian Cattle Dog is a compact, tough herding dog bred to move stubborn cattle across rough country. It is smart, loyal and tireless, and it needs a real job and a lot of exercise. In the right active…

    Exercise needs
    Energy level
    Handles heat
  2. 2

    Australian Shepherd

    Herding · Medium · 40–65 lb (18–29 kg)

    The Australian Shepherd is a brilliant, athletic herding dog that thrives on work, training and time with its people. Despite the name, the breed was developed in the United States. It is a superb partner for…

    Exercise needs
    Energy level
    Handles heat
  3. 3

    Belgian Malinois

    Herding · Large · 40–80 lb (18–36 kg)

    The Belgian Malinois is an intense, athletic herding dog of roughly 40–80 lb (18–36 kg) that excels as a police, military and sport dog. It is brilliant and devoted, but it needs huge amounts of exercise, trai…

    Exercise needs
    Energy level
    Handles heat
  4. 4

    Border Collie

    Herding · Medium · 30–55 lb (14–25 kg)

    The Border Collie is widely regarded as one of the most intelligent and trainable dogs, a 30–55 lb (14–25 kg) herder with tireless energy and intense focus. It thrives with active owners who offer hours of exe…

    Exercise needs
    Energy level
    Handles heat
  5. 5

    Brittany

    Sporting · Medium · 30–40 lb (14–18 kg)

    The Brittany is an upbeat, athletic French bird dog that weighs 30 to 40 lb (14 to 18 kg) and stands 17.5 to 20.5 in (44 to 52 cm). It is bright, gentle and very trainable, but it needs a lot of daily exercise…

    Exercise needs
    Energy level
    Handles heat
  6. 6

    Dalmatian

    Non-Sporting · Large · 45–70 lb (20–32 kg)

    The Dalmatian is a spotted, athletic, high-energy dog bred to run alongside carriages for miles. It is playful, loyal and sensitive, but it needs plenty of exercise, company and training, and it sheds heavily.…

    Exercise needs
    Energy level
    Handles heat
  7. 7

    Dogo Argentino

    Working · Large · 80–100 lb (36–45 kg)

    The Dogo Argentino is a muscular, all-white big-game hunting dog from Argentina that stands 24 to 26.5 in (61 to 67 cm) tall and weighs 80 to 100 lb (36 to 45 kg). It is courageous, loyal and very athletic, bu…

    Exercise needs
    Energy level
    Handles heat
  8. 8

    Flat-Coated Retriever

    Sporting · Large · 60–70 lb (27–32 kg)

    The Flat-Coated Retriever is a cheerful, glossy black or liver retriever that weighs about 60 to 70 lb (27 to 32 kg) and tends to stay puppyish for years. It is a devoted, active family dog, but its short aver…

    Exercise needs
    Energy level
    Handles heat
  9. 9

    German Shepherd Dog

    Herding · Large · 50–90 lb (23–41 kg)

    The German Shepherd Dog is a confident, intelligent working breed, typically 22 to 26 in (56 to 66 cm) tall and 50 to 90 lb (23 to 41 kg). It is loyal, highly trainable and a superb all-round worker, but it ne…

    Exercise needs
    Energy level
    Handles heat
  10. 10

    German Shorthaired Pointer

    Sporting · Large · 45–70 lb (20–32 kg)

    The German Shorthaired Pointer is a tireless, versatile gundog that weighs about 45 to 70 lb (20 to 32 kg). Affectionate and clever, it is a superb partner for runners and hunters, but it needs hours of vigoro…

    Exercise needs
    Energy level
    Handles heat
  11. 11

    Giant Schnauzer

    Working · Large · 55–95 lb (25–43 kg)

    The Giant Schnauzer is a strong, bearded working dog that stands roughly 23.5 to 27.5 in (60 to 70 cm) tall and weighs about 55 to 95 lb (25 to 43 kg). It is loyal, smart and protective, and it needs an experi…

    Exercise needs
    Energy level
    Handles heat
  12. 12

    Irish Setter

    Sporting · Large · 60–70 lb (27–32 kg)

    The Irish Setter is a racy, mahogany-red bird dog that stands about 25 to 27 in (64 to 69 cm) tall and weighs roughly 60 to 70 lb (27 to 32 kg). It is outgoing, affectionate and bursting with energy, and it ne…

    Exercise needs
    Energy level
    Handles heat
  13. 13

    Jack Russell Terrier

    Terrier · Small · 11–13 lb (5–6 kg)

    The Jack Russell Terrier is a small, tireless, white-based working terrier with a big personality, bred in England to hunt foxes. It is clever, funny and fiercely loyal, but it digs, chases and barks, and it n…

    Exercise needs
    Energy level
    Handles heat
  14. 14

    Miniature American Shepherd

    Herding · Medium · 20–40 lb (9–18 kg)

    The Miniature American Shepherd is a smart, athletic herding dog that weighs 20 to 40 lb (9 to 18 kg) and looks like a small Australian Shepherd. Minis are loyal, eager to learn and happy to join any activity,…

    Exercise needs
    Energy level
    Handles heat
  15. 15

    Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever

    Sporting · Medium · 35–50 lb (16–23 kg)

    The Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever is the smallest retriever, a red, fox-like gundog that weighs 35 to 50 lb (16 to 23 kg). Tollers are smart, affectionate and tireless, so they thrive with active owners w…

    Exercise needs
    Energy level
    Handles heat
  16. 16

    Portuguese Water Dog

    Working · Medium · 35–60 lb (16–27 kg)

    The Portuguese Water Dog is an athletic, curly- or wavy-coated working dog that weighs 35 to 60 lb (16 to 27 kg) and loves to swim. Porties are bright, affectionate and low-shedding, but they need vigorous dai…

    Exercise needs
    Energy level
    Handles heat
  17. 17

    Siberian Husky

    Working · Medium · 35–60 lb (16–27 kg)

    The Siberian Husky is a friendly, athletic sled dog with endless energy, a love of running and a famously independent streak. It is a rewarding companion for active, experienced owners but a poor fit for homes…

    Exercise needs
    Energy level
    Handles heat
  18. 18

    Treeing Walker Coonhound

    Hound · Large · 50–70 lb (23–32 kg)

    The Treeing Walker Coonhound is a lean, fast, tricolor American hunting hound that stands 20 to 27 in (51 to 69 cm) and weighs 50 to 70 lb (23 to 32 kg). It is friendly and mellow at home but loud and single-m…

    Exercise needs
    Energy level
    Handles heat
  19. 19

    Vizsla

    Sporting · Medium · 44–60 lb (20–27 kg)

    The Vizsla is a lean, red-gold Hungarian gundog that bonds closely with its people and needs a great deal of exercise. It is affectionate and trainable, but it is a poor fit for homes that cannot offer daily a…

    Exercise needs
    Energy level
    Handles heat
  20. 20

    Weimaraner

    Sporting · Large · 55–90 lb (25–41 kg)

    The Weimaraner is a sleek, high-energy gundog from Germany, bonded closely to its people and in need of a great deal of exercise and mental work. It rewards committed, active owners but can become destructive…

    Exercise needs
    Energy level
    Handles heat
  21. 21

    Alaskan Malamute

    Working · Large · 75–85 lb (34–39 kg)

    The Alaskan Malamute is a powerful, friendly Arctic sled dog built for strength and endurance rather than speed. It is affectionate and sociable, but also independent, strong-willed and very hard to keep indoo…

    Exercise needs
    Energy level
    Handles heat
  22. 22

    Chesapeake Bay Retriever

    Sporting · Large · 55–80 lb (25–36 kg)

    The Chesapeake Bay Retriever is a tough, waterproof-coated duck dog from Maryland that weighs 55 to 80 lb (25 to 36 kg). It is loyal and protective with its family, more independent than other retrievers, and…

    Exercise needs
    Energy level
    Handles heat
  23. 23

    Golden Retriever

    Sporting · Large · 55–75 lb (25–34 kg)

    The Golden Retriever is a warm, patient, highly trainable sporting dog that typically weighs 55 to 75 lb (25 to 34 kg). Goldens suit active families well, but they shed heavily, need daily exercise and company…

    Exercise needs
    Energy level
    Handles heat
  24. 24

    Labrador Retriever

    Sporting · Large · 55–80 lb (25–36 kg)

    The Labrador Retriever is a friendly, athletic, food-loving retriever that typically weighs 55 to 80 lb (25 to 36 kg). Labs are eager to learn and good with families, but they need daily exercise, careful weig…

    Exercise needs
    Energy level
    Handles heat
  25. 25

    Boxer

    Working · Large · 50–80 lb (23–36 kg)

    The Boxer is an exuberant, loyal and goofy working-group dog that stays playful well into adulthood. It is great with family and children, but it needs lots of exercise, copes badly with heat, and carries nota…

    Exercise needs
    Energy level
    Handles heat
  26. 26

    Staffordshire Bull Terrier

    Terrier · Medium · 24–38 lb (11–17 kg)

    The Staffordshire Bull Terrier is a muscular, affectionate terrier that stands 14 to 16 in (36 to 41 cm) and weighs 24 to 38 lb (11 to 17 kg). Staffords are devoted, playful companions with a reputation for pa…

    Exercise needs
    Energy level
    Handles heat
  27. 27

    Airedale Terrier

    Terrier · Medium · 50–70 lb (23–32 kg)

    The Airedale Terrier is the largest terrier, a bold, clever and playful dog that typically weighs 50 to 70 lb (23 to 32 kg). It makes a loyal family companion for active people, but its energy, strong will and…

    Exercise needs
    Energy level
    Handles heat
  28. 28

    American Eskimo Dog

    Non-Sporting · Small · 6–35 lb (3–16 kg)

    The American Eskimo Dog is a bright, fluffy white spitz that comes in three sizes, from about 6 lb (2.7 kg) to 35 lb (16 kg). Eskies are affectionate, very trainable and good with kids, but they shed heavily,…

    Exercise needs
    Energy level
    Handles heat
  29. 29

    American Pit Bull Terrier

    Terrier · Medium · 30–60 lb (14–27 kg)

    The American Pit Bull Terrier is an athletic, people-focused terrier recognized by the United Kennel Club (UKC), not the American Kennel Club. It is strong, smart and eager to please, and needs experienced han…

    Exercise needs
    Energy level
    Handles heat
  30. 30

    American Staffordshire Terrier

    Terrier · Medium · 40–70 lb (18–32 kg)

    The American Staffordshire Terrier, or AmStaff, is a muscular, affectionate and athletic bull-type terrier that weighs about 40 to 70 lb (18 to 32 kg). Well-bred, well-socialized AmStaffs are loyal family dogs…

    Exercise needs
    Energy level
    Handles heat
  31. 31

    Aussiedoodle

    Hybrid · Medium · 15–70 lb (7–32 kg)

    The Aussiedoodle is a cross between an Australian Shepherd and a Poodle, known for brains, energy and a love of being busy. Chewy's vet-reviewed profile puts adults at roughly 15 to 70 lb (7 to 32 kg), dependi…

    Exercise needs
    Energy level
    Handles heat
  32. 32

    Basenji

    Hound · Small · 22–24 lb (10–11 kg)

    The Basenji is a small, athletic African hunting hound, about 16 to 17 in (41 to 43 cm) tall and 22 to 24 lb (10 to 11 kg), famous for not barking in the usual way. It is clean, clever and fiercely independent…

    Exercise needs
    Energy level
    Handles heat
  33. 33

    Beagle

    Hound · Small · 20–30 lb (9–14 kg)

    The Beagle is a compact, merry scent hound that weighs up to about 30 lb (14 kg). Friendly with children and other dogs, it is easy to groom but hard to train off-leash, because a Beagle's nose and voice often…

    Exercise needs
    Energy level
    Handles heat
  34. 34

    Bull Terrier

    Terrier · Medium · 50–70 lb (23–32 kg)

    The Bull Terrier is a muscular, clownish, deeply affectionate dog with a unique egg-shaped head. It is playful and devoted to its people but also strong, stubborn and often dog-selective, so it needs an experi…

    Exercise needs
    Energy level
    Handles heat
  35. 35

    Cockapoo

    Hybrid · Small · 6–30 lb (3–14 kg)

    The Cockapoo is a cheerful cross between a Cocker Spaniel and a Poodle, typically small to medium, affectionate and quick to learn. With no breed standard, size, coat and health vary by Poodle parent, litter a…

    Exercise needs
    Energy level
    Handles heat
  36. 36

    Doberman Pinscher

    Working · Large · 60–100 lb (27–45 kg)

    The Doberman Pinscher is a sleek, intelligent and devoted guardian that bonds intensely with its family. It is highly trainable and surprisingly affectionate, but it needs firm, positive leadership, plenty of…

    Exercise needs
    Energy level
    Handles heat
  37. 37

    English Cocker Spaniel

    Sporting · Medium · 26–34 lb (12–15 kg)

    The English Cocker Spaniel is a merry, affectionate sporting dog that stands 15 to 17 in (38 to 43 cm) tall and weighs 26 to 34 lb (12 to 15 kg). It is easy to train and good with families, but it needs daily…

    Exercise needs
    Energy level
    Handles heat
  38. 38

    English Springer Spaniel

    Sporting · Medium · 40–50 lb (18–23 kg)

    The English Springer Spaniel is a friendly, energetic bird dog that is equally happy in the field or on the family sofa. It is bright and eager to please, but it needs daily exercise, regular grooming and comp…

    Exercise needs
    Energy level
    Handles heat
  39. 39

    Goldendoodle

    Hybrid · Medium · 15–90 lb (7–41 kg)

    The Goldendoodle is a cross between a Golden Retriever and a Poodle, known for a friendly, eager-to-please nature and a wavy or curly coat. With no breed standard, size, coat and health vary from litter to lit…

    Exercise needs
    Energy level
    Handles heat
  40. 40

    Labradoodle

    Hybrid · Medium · 18–75 lb (8–34 kg)

    The Labradoodle is a cross between a Labrador Retriever and a Poodle, bred originally in Australia as a potential assistance dog. It is usually energetic, friendly and trainable. With no breed standard, size,…

    Exercise needs
    Energy level
    Handles heat
  41. 41

    Pomsky

    Hybrid · Small · 10–35 lb (5–16 kg)

    The Pomsky is a cross between a Pomeranian and a Siberian Husky, popular for its miniature-Husky look. It is lively, vocal and independent, with a thick double coat that sheds heavily. With no breed standard,…

    Exercise needs
    Energy level
    Handles heat
  42. 42

    Poodle

    Non-Sporting · Medium · 4–70 lb (2–32 kg)

    The Poodle is a highly intelligent, athletic dog that comes in three sizes: Standard, Miniature and Toy. All share a curly, low-shedding coat that needs regular professional grooming, and all are eager, traina…

    Exercise needs
    Energy level
    Handles heat
  43. 43

    Rhodesian Ridgeback

    Hound · Large · 70–85 lb (32–39 kg)

    The Rhodesian Ridgeback is a powerful, athletic hound with a signature ridge of reverse-growing hair, typically weighing 70 to 85 lb (32 to 39 kg). Ridgebacks are devoted and protective with family, but their…

    Exercise needs
    Energy level
    Handles heat
  44. 44

    Samoyed

    Working · Medium · 35–65 lb (16–29 kg)

    The Samoyed is a friendly, fluffy white spitz-type dog with a perpetual smile and a fondness for people. It is energetic, social and chatty, but it demands daily exercise, frequent brushing and company. It is…

    Exercise needs
    Energy level
    Handles heat
  45. 45

    Shiba Inu

    Non-Sporting · Small · 17–23 lb (8–10 kg)

    The Shiba Inu is Japan's smallest native spitz breed, a fox-like 17–23 lb (8–10.5 kg) dog that is bold, clean and famously independent. It is a rewarding companion for patient owners, but it sheds heavily, has…

    Exercise needs
    Energy level
    Handles heat
  46. 46

    Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier

    Terrier · Medium · 30–40 lb (14–18 kg)

    The Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier is a happy, devoted Irish farm terrier with a silky, low-shedding coat. Adults stand 17 to 19 in (43 to 48 cm) and weigh 30 to 40 lb (14 to 18 kg). Wheatens are exuberant family…

    Exercise needs
    Energy level
    Handles heat
  47. 47

    Standard Schnauzer

    Working · Medium · 30–50 lb (14–23 kg)

    The Standard Schnauzer is a sturdy, square-built German farm dog with a wiry pepper-and-salt or black coat and a bearded face. Adults stand 17.5 to 19.5 in (44 to 50 cm) and weigh 30 to 50 lb (14 to 23 kg). Sm…

    Exercise needs
    Energy level
    Handles heat

How we ranked them

Breeds qualify with an energy rating of 4 or 5 and an exercise rating of 4 or 5, and toy-size breeds are left out. We score each by doubling its exercise rating and adding its energy rating. Ratings come from our breed profiles and describe the typical dog, so every dog is an individual. A high rating shows appetite for exercise, not that a particular dog is fit or safe to run.

See how we research and rate breeds.

Before you choose

See your vet first so you can set a safe plan together. Then build up gradually: alternate walking and jogging, lengthen the distance only as your dog's endurance improves, and warm up and cool down with a slow walk.

Protect against heat. Run in the cool of the morning or evening, carry water and offer small sips often, and stop if your dog pants heavily. If you cannot hold your hand on the pavement for about 10 seconds, it is too hot for paws. Read about heatstroke and what to do if you suspect it.

Check paws after every run and avoid icy or salted roads. For help judging how much activity suits your dog, see how much exercise a dog needs, or look at our hot weather dogs if you live somewhere warm.

Frequently asked questions

When can I start running with my puppy?

Wait until your vet confirms your puppy's growth plates have begun to close, which happens at different ages depending on size; small breeds mature sooner. Until then, stick to play and short walks.

Can any dog run with me?

No. A dog needs legs long enough to keep pace and healthy breathing, and flat-faced breeds may struggle to breathe during exertion. Older dogs with arthritis can find running painful.

How far can I run with my dog?

It depends on age, fitness, health and the weather. Start with short intervals and build up slowly, and stop if your dog lags, pants heavily or limps. Your vet can help you set a plan.

Do high-energy dogs need running to be happy?

They need an outlet, but not necessarily running. Fetch, hiking, scent games and training sessions can burn energy too, and they are gentler on joints.

Sources

  1. VCA Animal Hospitals: Running with Your Dog
  2. Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine: Heatstroke: A medical emergency

More breed lists

All lists