After months of researching different dog breeds that fit my search criteria (active, energetic and good with people/other dogs), I have compiled a list of the top breeds. The following list of dogs are perfect for dog owners who want to spend a lot of time outside with their furry companions. Each breed paragraph will contain a link to take you to specific articles. This page can be found on the main homepage of activedodbreeds.com if you want to come back to check other breeds.
Australian Shepherd
The Australian Shepherd is an active and tough ranch dog. Aussies exhibit an irresistible impulse to herd, anything: birds, dogs, kids. This strong work drive can make Aussies too much dog for a sedentary pet owner. Aussies are remarkably intelligent, quite capable of hoodwinking an unsuspecting novice owner. In short, this isn’t the pet for everyone. But if you’re looking for a brainy, tireless, and trainable partner for work or sport, your search might end here. Read more about Australian Shepherds here.
Border Collie
A remarkably bright workaholic, the Border Collie is an amazing dog that will require a lot attention and exercise. These energetic dogs will settle down for cuddle time when the workday is done. The overall look is that of a muscular but nimble worker unspoiled by passing fads. Borders are among the canine kingdom’s most agile, balanced, and durable citizens. The intelligence, athleticism, and trainability of Borders have a perfect outlet in agility training. Having a job to perform, like agility or herding or obedience work is key to Border happiness. You can find Border Collie articles here.
Brittany
Sportsmen on both sides of the Atlantic cherish the agile, energetic Brittany as a stylish and versatile gundog. Bright and eager at home, Brittanys require a lot of exercises, preferably with their favorite humans. Obedience, agility, flyball, dock diving, you name it, this trainable breed is up for it. The Brittany is a nice fit for those seeking an all-purpose hunting partner, a dog-sport teammate, or a companion in sync with an upbeat, outdoorsy family life. Learn more about Brittanys here.
English Springer Spaniel
The English Springer Spaniel is a sweet-faced, lovable bird dog of great energy, stamina, and brains. Sport hunters cherish the duality of working Springers: handsome, mannerly pets during the week, and trusty hunting buddies on weekends. Springers are highly trainable people-pleasers. They crave company and are miserable when neglected. Polite dogs, Springers are good with kids and their fellow mammals. They are eager to join in any family activity. Long walks, games of chase and fetch, and swimming are favorite pastimes of these rugged spaniels. Articles for English Springer Spaniels can be found here.
German Shorthaired Pointer
The versatile, medium-sized German Shorthaired Pointer is an enthusiastic gundog of all trades who thrives on vigorous exercise, positive training, and a lot of love. Built to work long days in the field or at the lake, GSPs are known for power, speed, agility, and endurance. GSPs make happy, trainable pets who bond firmly to their family. They are always up for physical activities like running, swimming, organized dog sports, in fact, anything that will burn some of their boundless energy while spending outdoors time with a human buddy. Click here to learn more about GSPs.
Siberian Husky
Siberian Husky, a thickly coated, compact sled dog of medium size and great endurance, was developed to work in packs, pulling light loads at moderate speeds over vast frozen expanses. Sibes are friendly, fastidious, and dignified. As born pack dogs, they enjoy family life and get on well with other dogs. The Sibe’s innate friendliness render them indifferent watchdogs. These are energetic dogs who can’t resist chasing small animals, so secure running room is a must. Find Siberian Husky articles here.
Weimaraner
The Weimaraner (Gray Ghost) is beloved by hunters and pet owners alike for their friendliness, obedience, and beauty. They enjoy exercise, and plenty of it, along with lots of quality time with their humans. Instantly recognized by a distinctive silvery-gray coat, male Weimaraners stand 25 to 27 inches at the shoulder, and females 23 to 25 inches. Weimaraners are excellent with kids and yearn to be full-fledged family members. Easy grooming, trainability, a loving nature, and a can-do-attitude make them excellent pets, as long as owners are committed to keeping them physically active and mentally engaged. Weimaraner articles can be found here.
