10 Energetic Dog Breeds

Determining what type of dog to get can be difficult: aside from the cuteness factor, there are a lot of breed and personality traits to be considered when finding a perfect match. If you lead a very active lifestyle — or have kids who can’t stop moving! — a pup with high energy may be a perfect fit. Here are 10 of the most energetic breeds out there.

Known for being the most willing and hard-working sled dogs, Siberian Huskies are also fun-loving, adventurous, alert and independent, according to Discovery.com. While their agreeable personalities make them a great all-around dog, their incredible endurance and mischievous nature requires proper training, the right dog food, and lots of exercise in a well-fenced area.

Bred for speed, courage, intelligence and their ability to hunt game, the Weimaraner is a fun-loving breed known for their active participation in a variety of dog sports, according to the American Kennel Club (AKC). Easily recognized by their short, sleek grey coats, Weimaraners love to run and hunt and can become frustrated when kept in dog crates for too long, according to Discovery.com. This breed will do best with an owner who enjoys being outdoors often and wants a fun-loving pal at their side.

A natural hunting dog with stamina and courage, Pointers are bread primarily for sport, according to the AKC. They’re gentle and social, who get along with animals and people of all ages, according to dogguide.net. Because of their energy, Pointers should be exercised every day and run in a fenced-in area if possible. Even with the best training, their instincts may take over in an open area and they may chase after birds or small game.

Border Collies are incredibly intelligent and obedient, but can be a disastrous house dog if not properly exercised or given a challenging job every day, according to Discovery.com. If given daily exercise beyond just a walk around the block, they’ll be dependable and loyal companions. Border Collies will do best with space to run and families with older children.

Intelligent and adaptable, Australian Shepherds can be found today herding livestock and working as all-purpose farm and ranch dogs in addition to being companion animals. They need lots of activity and a sense of purpose to be content, according to the AKC, and excel in agility and obedience events. Good games of catch, Frisbee or a long run work in a family setting, too.

Known for being cheerful, playful and energetic, English Springer Spaniels are built for hunting tirelessly under even the most difficult conditions, according to Discovery.com. They are built for strength and endurance and can be overly enthusiastic if not exercised daily, preferrably outdoors or with some active dog toys. Their amiable personalities make them an ideal companion for an active family.

The Parson terrier is an affection and outgoing breed filled with energy. Though the breed is small, they’re known for being tenacious in the field as a working foxhunter with alertness, confidence and endurance, according to the AKC. Parson terriers need regular exercise and attention to excel in the home and are good with kids but will not always tolerate rough handling from small children, according to the AKC.

Known for being bold, playful and adventurous, Airedales make lively but protective companions, according to Discovery.com. They’re reliable, good house dogs but will need a strong hand in training as they have a tendency to get bored easily. Because of their intelligence and energy, Airedales do best with plenty of mental and physical exercise every day.

What the Miniature Pinscher, or “Min Pin,” lacks in size it certainly makes up for in energy. These dogs are quick, playful and very curious, known for being “perpetual motion machines,” according to Discovery.com. Their size makes them a great choice for apartment life, but will need plenty of playtime and daily walks to keep up with their activity needs.

Bred as a carriage dog, meant to run for miles alongside horses, Dalmatians have a tireless enthusiasm and are playful, eager companions, according to Discoverly.com. They excel in obedience and agility competitions and thrive in a family environment as long as they have daily exercise either on a leash or in a well-fenced area.