Best Active Dog Breeds For Sporty Families
Picking out the perfect pet is a difficult decision for anyone. There’s a lot to consider, including how much time, energy and effort you’re able to put into its care and what you want your furry friend to be able to do with you. Here we explore the best dog breeds for sporty families.
There are over 11 million dogs in the UK alone– and happily they can go almost anywhere with you and participate in a lot of activities, unlike other pets. Still, every dog is different, and each breed was created with a specific purpose in mind. Some dogs are better suited to different sports, and other dogs aren’t built for a lot of activity; for example, brachycephalic dogs with squashed faces often struggle to breathe when running. So, for sporty families who love outdoor activities and want to share them with their dogs, it’s important to find the right breed. Luckily, there are thousands of dog breeds out there, so you just need to look for the right one.
To make it easier, we’ve broken down some of our favourite active dog breeds and explained why we love them so much!
Whippets
Obviously, we’re starting off with our favourite: the Whippet! Whippets are friendly, energetic and loveable, but they also love a good snuggle after a busy day. That means you get the best of both worlds and can have an adorable companion who’s happy to work and play with you! Whippets are similar to Greyhounds in that they are fast when running but soon run out of steam. So, they’re best suited for those who love rambling and want to explore the world with a happy companion in tow.
Patterdale Terriers
A slightly more energetic and driven dog is the Patterdale Terrier. These hardy little dogs were originally bred for hunting rats and have since become a great combination of working dogs and beloved companions. Because they love to work and enjoy activities, Patterdales can be used for a variety of sports, including ratting, running, hiking and more. Their small size also makes them perfect for those who don’t want a big dog in stature but are looking for one with boundless energy. Make sure you learn about the Patterdale Terrier’s temperament before you consider welcoming one into your family to ensure you’ve made the right choice.
Labradors And Golden Retrievers
Technically, Labradors and Golden Retrievers are two separate breeds, but we’re putting them into the same category because they’re incredibly similar in temperament and energy levels. Both dogs are energetic and athletic, so they love activities like hiking, swimming, and retrieving. They’re also great with kids, so they’re ideal for families with children. What separates them is their appearance. Both are medium-sized dogs, but Labradors come in three colours- black, chocolate and yellow- and have a short coat. Golden retrievers come in shades of gold, ranging from darker to a pale cream, and have a longer coat. So, your grooming needs will need to be considered if you’re thinking about getting one of these two popular breeds.
Border Collies
Everyone’s seen the classic Border Collie, and it’s often the first breed many people think of when they consider active dogs. These working dogs are expert sheepdogs, but they also excel at agility, flyball, Frisbee, and obedience competitions. As such, they’re ideal for those who want to do dog sports with their new pet. However, it’s important to remember that Border Collies are considered the most intelligent dog breed in the world, so they need constant stimulation and regular training. If you’re unable to give them everything they need, these beautiful dogs could quickly become a destructive nightmare, so make sure you’re completely prepared before you take one on.
Rescue
Consider rehoming an active rescue companion if you can dedicate the time needed and involve the dog in your lifestyle. Seek thorough advice from the shelter or charity you are working with to ensure that you are taking on the right dog for you.
Less active breeds
These are some of the dog breeds that work best for active families, but there are hundreds more out there. The key is to look for dogs that were bred to work rather than for companionship. Also, watch out for dogs that have an independent streak, as they can be hard to train and might not be eager to join you in any joint activities, like agility or even just running beside your bike! By taking the time to explore all your options, you can pick out the perfect pup for your family and ensure that you make great memories with them for the rest of their lives.
Choosing the best dog breeds for sporty families
Making a careful choice of breed is worth all of the time and effort for both you and your dog. Take your time with the decision and be sure that having a dog suits your lifestyle, budget and time. If you are able to add a dog to your family- enjoy! You will have endless fun!