If you’re the type of family that enjoys hiking, biking, and regular excursions, then you’ll probably want a dog that matches your energy and lifestyle. You may be disappointed if you choose a dog that seems active but really just wants to laze around the house; then you may be sorely disappointed.
Fortunately, we’ve put together a list of breeds that will get along splendidly with your active family. We’ll include information on the breed, how much activity they need, and what to expect from them.
German Shorthaired Pointer
German Shorthaired Pointers were first bred in Germany as hunters, and this trait continues on today even as house pets. GSPs love being active, requiring at least 90 minutes of fairly rigorous activity per day. And don’t think that a lap around the block is enough. They’ll need off-lead runs, swimming, scent games, and agility exercises to keep their busy brains satisfied.
However, don’t think that these dogs are difficult to have. They are also affectionate, eager to please, and great with kids. Just be careful if you have young toddlers because they can tend to get overly enthusiastic and can accidentally knock over a toddler if not supervised. They may also struggle with small apartments as they need space to move around.
If that sounds like your household, the German Shorthaired Pointer breed guide covers temperament, care, and what to look for in a breeder in more detail.
Labrador Retriever
Labradors are one of the most popular breeds for good reason. They are friendly, happy, affectionate, easy to train, and work wonderfully well with active families. They tend to love the water, so bringing them on camping trips where there are beaches, lakes or rivers will be a lovely treat for them.
The thing people underestimate in Labs is their food drive. A Lab on a light exercise schedule will gain weight quickly, and a bored Lab will always look for something to chew. It helps to give them tasks, even if it’s as simple as carrying a stick around for the duration of a hike, and they will stay happy.
Golden Retriever
Golden Retrievers are patient with children, friendly with visitors, other dogs, and pretty much everyone. They love being with people and love adventures, which makes them wonderful companions for families that like bringing their dogs everywhere.
Very similar to the Lab in what they need, a little softer in temperament. Goldens are patient with children and tend to be good with visitors, other dogs, and pretty much everyone. However, keep in mind that they shed a lot. So if you’re hoping to keep a tidy house and spend every weekend on a muddy track, you’ll need a decent vacuum and be ready to do some regular cleaning.
Vizsla
A Vizsla is something like a GSP with a different coat and a stronger attachment to its owner. They’re lean, fast, and are the happiest when they’re moving. They are known for following their owners from room to room when they’re at home. This closeness is sweet, but it can also mean they’re prone to separation anxiety. They suit families that have someone at home most of the time, and also homes with plenty of space to move.
Australian Cattle Dog
Australian Cattle Dogs are the epitome of working dogs. They are smart, tough, can handle various weather conditions and terrains, and love being given tasks. They also have a tendency to be strong willed, so early training is key with this type of breed. If you don’t give your Australian Cattle Dog plenty of mental stimulation, it can find its own entertainment, and you may not like the results. They are good with older children and owners with dog experience.
Border Collie
Border Collies are often called the smartest breed, and living with one can feel like it. They’ll learn anything you teach them and a good deal you didn’t mean to. For families who want to do agility, long hikes, or trick training, they’re hard to beat.
The flip side is that they need more stimulation than many households can realistically provide. A Border Collie without enough tasks to do can become anxious or start herding the kids, which is funnier in theory than in practice.
What to think about before you choose
Be honest about your week, not your best weekend. These dogs need exercise regularly, not just on the days you feel like it. If this doesn’t sound like something you can commit to, you may want to opt for a lower energy breed.
Check your fencing. Athletic dogs jump, dig, and squeeze through gaps you wouldn’t think a dog could manage. A secure yard makes a big difference in everyone’s health and safety.
Think about the age of your kids. Big, bouncy dogs are wonderful with older children but can accidentally knock over small ones without meaning to. Be sure to always supervise interactions with younger children.
Budget for more than food. Large active breeds are strong and can wear out gear quickly; they also need a lot more food to survive, and training classes to keep them obedient.
Take the breeder seriously. Whichever breed you choose, spend time finding a good breeder who took the time to health test their dogs. They should be open to letting you meet the parents and see how they were raised, and answer any questions.
Picking the right fit
Spend a few weeks thinking about how you really spend your time, talk to owners of the breeds you like, and meet a few adult dogs if you can. The one you end up with will be on the trail beside you for the next decade or so, so it’s worth getting right.
