Picking the right dog breed can mean all the difference in the world in finding a perfect match. Yes, some breeds are more relaxed, while others have unbridled energy. While certain dogs need room to roam, there’s another group who are happy with condo living.
“The right breeder can assist you in picking the right puppy in the litter which fits the needs for you and your family,” said a spokesperson from Performance K9 Training in the San Diego area. “For active families who enjoy hiking, running, jogging, and love being on the go, there are certain breeds that blend well.”
All dogs require exercise, but some breeds require more which may make them great athletic partners. Here are some of the best breeds known to have an active, sports-oriented lifestyle:
- Border Collie
- German Shepherd
- Australian
- Cattle Dog
- Afghan Hound
- Foxhound
- Golden Retriever
- Irish Setter
- German
- Shorthaired Pointer
- Basenji
- Jack
- Russell Terrier
- Siberian Husky
- Alaskan Malamute
- Shetland Sheepdog
“These breeds generally have high drive and energy,” said the spokesperson. “So before bringing
one of these dogs into your home and life, you really need to ask yourself whether or not you can keep them physically and mentally stimulated to meet those energy levels.”
These types of breeds are also great if a future pet owner wants to get into a dog sport, as well.
Breeders in good standing will also have interested puppy buyers fill out a questionnaire to help determine if the breed is a good match, too.
It’s also important to note that “working breeds” versus “show line breeds” make a difference.
Working breeds tend to have higher energy levels.
“The best piece of advice we can give is to do your homework when researching breeds and that includes talking to reputable dog trainers, veterinarians, and even people who own the breed,” she said. “Because dog ownership is a lifetime commitment.”
