Many potential dog owners have an active lifestyle and may be looking for a breed to tag along on any outdoor adventures. When it comes to hiking with your dog, physical characteristics are as important as personality. There are many dog breeds that have been bred for long hours of work outdoors during any and all weather conditions, and these breeds are the best choices for those looking for very active companions.
If you’re looking for the perfect hiking partner, you’ll want to consider these active breeds of dogs. No matter which breed you bring along, however, always remember to pack proper hiking gear for both you and your dog.
Siberian Husky
The Siberian Husky was originally bred to pull sleds and carts long distances in the harsh Russian climate. These members of the Working Group are powerfully built dogs with lively spirits, always ready for adventure at any time. A true endurance breed, Siberians make an excellent choice for those looking for a dog that will keep them entertained on long hikes. They’re gentle, alert, and very social, and these dogs enjoy spending time outside.
Australian Shepherd
The Australian Shepherd is an intelligent, adventurous breed that is always ready to go. Originally used as herding dogs, they still excel at this job today, as well as in many dog sports such as agility and obedience. Australian Shepherds make excellent hiking partners, as they’re very athletic, friendly, and well-suited for long hours of strenuous activity.
German Shorthaired Pointer
The German Shorthaired Pointer of the Sporting Group makes an excellent hiking companion. The breed was developed as a hunting dog, and they still perform this task today across the world. They enjoy long hours of strenuous activity in various climates, making them suitable for long hikes and adventures. They’re social and willing to please, eager to work with their owners and make new friends.
Vizsla
The Vizsla is a Hungarian hunting dog and is still employed extensively in the field to this day. Due to their innate power and drive as a hunting dog, Vizslas have maintained their need for exercise and a love of the outdoors. Vizslas are energetic and athletic dogs, very friendly and affectionate, and always ready to go. They make an ideal choice for someone looking for an active hiking companion.
Australian Cattle Dog
The Australian Cattle Dog is an athletic, intelligent breed that has a lot of energy to burn. They still work as herding dogs today and make for great competitors in dog sports such as obedience and agility. The breed is very active and does best in a home that can provide adequate physical exercise. Therefore, they make excellent hiking partners.
Weimaraner
The Weimaraner is a hunting dog that was bred to work long hours outdoors, an activity they still enjoy today. Weimaraners are loyal, affectionate, and fun-loving dogs that make excellent hiking partners. They’re built for speed and stamina, meaning they do well on both short and long excursions.
Bernese Mountain Dog
The Bernese Mountain Dog is a large, powerful working breed with a gentle personality and a desire to make friends everywhere. Originally used for drafting and as a drover for cattle in the cold Swiss Alps, this breed enjoys strenuous activity and makes an excellent hiking companion in any weather.
Rhodesian Ridgeback
The Rhodesian Ridgeback is a hound developed in Africa. There, they were used to hunt large game for many hours over long distances. They’re very active and dignified dogs, reserved toward strangers but affectionate with their families. They make excellent companions for very active families, and though laid back, love engaging in exercise with their owner.
Alaskan Malamute
The Alaskan Malamute is a large working dog bred for pulling carts and sleds over long distances. They’re playful and affectionate dogs that enjoy spending time outdoors, especially in cold weather. Since they were bred for endurance rather than speed, they’re especially suited to going on long hikes.
Portuguese Water Dog
The Portuguese Water Dog has worked many jobs, including herding fish into fishermen’s nets, retrieving tackle and nets, and as couriers from ship to shore or ship to ship. This breed loves to work and makes a wonderful family companion for those looking for an active companion. They’re affectionate, adventurous, and happiest when they get lots of exercise.