Top 10 Dog Breeds for Runners

by Mary Simpson

Updated: March 28th, 2022 Published: January 21st, 2018

Pounding the pavement is much more fun when you have a furry running buddy! Get moving with a pooch that can keep up – here’s our picks for top 10 dog breeds for runners.

Are you a runner, jogger, speed walker? Do you consider yourself an urban warrior as you race down city streets or is your passion all about navigating a mountain trail? Well, there’s a dog for all of that! In fact, there are a lot of dogs that can happily meet your running needs and our Top 10 Dog Breeds for Runners list shares their speedy specialties with you.

Jack Russell Terrier

Starting off our list of dog breeds for runners is the Jack Russell Terrier. This pooch is built for endurance and he’s always ready, willing and able to accompany you on a long, extended run. The terrier in him may get him sidetracked when squirrels appear but training (or a good strong leash) can keep him from changing up your route. (Photo credit: Victoria Antonova/Shutterstock)

Siberian Husky

These hardy boys not only love to run, they need to run. Built to pull sleds through heavy snow and rough, icy terrain they are quick, agile and because of their thick double-coat, they are only too happy to head out with you on a cold morning run. (Photo credit: Migle Narbutaite/Shutterstock)

Beagle

Never forget these pooches lead the hunt so they need to be agile, focused and quick – at least quicker than the horses! While he’s no marathon runner, this fun-loving dog is a great companion for those short, quick runs before work. (Photo credit: Grigorita Ko/Shutterstock)

German Shorthaired Pointer

Another hunting dog, this big boy is built for speed and is ideal for trail or road runs. His lean, muscular build makes him the pooch you want to have with you as you train for a marathon. He’s all about endurance. (Photo credit: Migle Narbutaite/Shutterstock)

Dalmatian

A lean dog with a lengthy gait, this pooch is built for long runs and because he was originally used for running ahead of fire engines to clear the way… you know he’s quick. Great for longer distance running that is ideally on a softer surface. (Photo credit: Aneta Jungerova/Shutterstock)

Australian Shepherd

As his name implies, this dog was built for herding animals in a rougher rural terrain. So natch he’s an amazingly solid running companion for those who love to head out on rugged trails or routes with obstacles and hilly landscapes. (Photo credit: Utekhina Anna/Shutterstock)

Greyhound

No need to be intimidated by running alongside this iconic racehorse of dogs. He’s actually best at sprinting versus marathon-style runs and is an ideal pooch to have with you for a short, quick run. Anything longer and you’ll be carrying him! (Photo credit: Bianca Grueneberg/Shutterstock)

American Staffordshire Terrier

While he doesn’t’ look like he’s built for speed, the Staffie is a great pooch to take with you on a short, fast-paced run or jog. He’s muscular, agile and has sufficient energy to handily keep up with you for a couple miles of running, speed-walking or jogging. (Photo credit: JakubD/Shutterstock)

Labrador Retriever

He’s no speed demon, but he is a long-distance trooper and if you’re looking for someone who can go the distance, provide great companionship and is worth slowing down your pace a little for, this big boy’s for you. (Photo credit: Lunja/Shutterstock)

Vizsla

This dog is great for long, steady runs in either urban or rural trail settings and can pace himself to suit your need. Long and steady or fast and sprinting, he adapts easily. Known as a “Velcro” dog because of his love of staying close, you needn’t worry about him taking off in a different direction. (Photo credit: BIGANDT.COM/Shutterstock)

Mary Simpson

Sharing space with three seriously judgy Schnoodles and a feline who prefers to be left alone. #LivingMyBestLife

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