If you’re a runner and would like to have a dog to go with you then it’s important to get a dog that would really enjoy it. There are some dog breeds just made for running. Other dogs might have a hard time with it. Running in the park with your dog and feeling the breeze on your face can be a wonderful feeling. Sure, you can run by yourself but then you might be concerned more about your safety. We live in times where it can be sometimes very dangerous to go running alone. This is another reason as to why you might decide to have a dog go with you. A dog can be your best friend anywhere that you go and make you feel secure on your run.
Here are 10 Great Dogs For Runners
10. The Collie
The Collie dog breed is considered a type of distinctive herding dog. The Collie originates in both Northern England and Scotland. The dog size is medium and rather light compared to other dogs. You might first glance at this dog and think, that’s a running dog? They are extremely active plus agile. Most of them have an instinct to herd right away. The reason why they make a good running dog is for the simple reason that they love to be active. Almost any of the Collie breeds will be great running dogs.
9. Greyhound
The Greyhound breed has been around for generations and a European breed. The Greyhound was bred historically for gaming and racing. Their legs are extremely powerful. They can accelerate almost as fast as the cheetah. The Greyhound is not only a great runner but they also make a great family pet. They are gentle and very intelligent. They are also loyal dogs.
8. Rhodesian Ridgeback
The Rhodesian Ridgeback was developed as a dog breed in Southern Africa. They were first breed as hunting dogs and semi-domesticated. They are intelligent and very loyal. The Rhodesian Ridgeback is a great runner but they do require training and consistency. Dog owners who might not be experienced could find this breed difficult to have. They are also strong willed and even though they are loving they can get up to mischief.
7. Pit Bull
The Pit Bull was mainly breed as a fighting dog but they also make excellent running dogs. The Pit Bull dog was developed for dog fighting but not all of them are aggressive. They require training and socialization with other dogs. Whenever a pit bull has been around other dogs they might not attack as fast when they feel threatened. If you need a dog that can help you feel very secure on your runs then this might be the one for you but just remember, you might need to train the dog.
6. German Shepherd
The German shepherd originated from Germany. It’s a large sized dog. They are known best for herding sheep. They are not only excellent runners but they are very trainable, obedient, intelligent and strong. They are great with search and rescues plus have helped out the police and the military. In the USA they are the second most popular breed of dogs. They are also popular in the UK.
5. Golden Retriever
The Golden Retriever is a large sized dog breed. They were breed mainly to help with retrieving waterfowl, ducks and other things. They love water and you can easily train them. They make a good family pet. They are loyal, sweet and powerful. They are very powerful in the USA and in Canada.
4. Akita Inu
The Akita Inu is a dog that’s a large breed. The breed originated from Japan. They make great running dogs. They are independent, powerful and considered a breed that dominates. They are aloof to strangers but they can be extremely affectionate to those that they love. In 1937 Helen Keller actually traveled to Japan and when she was there grew to love the breed. She brought back two Akitas dogs to the USA, the first two too ever come in the USA.
3. Jack Russell Terrier
The Jack Russell Terrier is one of the small terriers and known for fox hunting and running. They are full of energy and can be intelligent, fearless and athletic dogs. They can also be very vocal. Sometimes they can become destructive or moody whenever they don’t have enough exercise or if they become moody. They can get bored fast and because they get bored so fast they try to find a way to have some kind of entertainment.
2. Siberian Husky
The Siberian Husky is a breed that descended directly from the first original sled dogs and this is why they are great dogs for runners to have. The one thing that is interesting about the Husky is that instead of barking they tend to howl. They love to jump over fences and dig under things. Surprisingly they are great with children and they have high energy. The only downfall is that they might chase after cats and can become destructive without properly caring for them.
1. Dalmatian
The Dalmatian is a breed that’s large and its coat is liver spotted or might be a unique black coloring. Today they are a great family pet and perfect for runners to take with them. The Disney movie 101 Dalmatians also made them extremely popular. Dalmatians can be used as not only an athletic partner but they can be used as a guardian, fire dog and even as a rescue dog. They are very loyal and friendly plus relatively healthy compared to some of the other dog breeds.
Conclusion
A couple of other dogs made for running include the German Short haired Pointer, the Beagle and Labrador Retriever. If you have a family or children be sure to also see what running dogs might be great family pets and might not require tons of attention. Some of them can be extremely energetic and require lots of exercise and stimulation.