Running solo isn’t for everyone. And if you’re one of the growing number of people who lace up your trail shoes with your four-legged friend in tow, you’re in good company. So, here are some top tips for running with your dog, along with the top 15 breeds to head out with!
According to the latest Running Report from SportsShoes.com, around 1 in 10 runners are motivated to get out the door thanks to their dog. And while almost any enthusiastic pup can bring a bit of joy to your training routine, new data suggests that some breeds are particularly suited to clocking up the miles.
The Top Dog?
Labrador Retrievers top the list with a near-perfect score of 4.9/5, thanks to their boundless energy, good nature, and eagerness to please. Hungarian Vizslas (4.8) and Staffies (4.75) also made the podium, praised for their stamina, agility, and trainability.
Rounding out the top five are the dependable German Shepherd and the German Shorthaired Pointer – both known for their work ethic and endurance. The list includes many classic working and sporting breeds, but there are a few surprises in the mix too…
Not Just for the Big Dogs
You don’t need a giant dog to enjoy a good run. High-energy small breeds like the Jack Russell Terrier and even the pint-sized Papillon made the list. While they may not join you for a mountain ultra, they’re ideal companions for short, regular outings – especially around town or in local parks.
Here’s how the top 15 shapes up:
| Rank | Breed | Score / 5 |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Labrador Retriever | 4.90 |
| 2 | Hungarian Vizsla | 4.80 |
| 3 | Staffordshire Bull Terrier | 4.75 |
| =4 | German Shepherd | 4.70 |
| =4 | German Shorthaired Pointer | 4.70 |
| 6 | Doberman Pinscher | 4.65 |
| =7 | Weimaraner | 4.60 |
| =7 | Irish Setter | 4.60 |
| =7 | Border Collie | 4.60 |
| =10 | Gordon Setter | 4.50 |
| =10 | Australian Shepherd | 4.50 |
| 12 | Siberian Husky | 4.30 |
| 13 | Jack Russell Terrier | 4.25 |
| 14 | Papillon | 4.20 |
| 15 | Pointer | 4.15 |
Vet-Approved Tips for Running with Your Dog
Of course, just because a breed can run doesn’t mean every dog should, at least not without preparation.
Amanda Charles, Veterinary Surgeon at Dogs Trust, shares a few dos and don’ts:
Do:
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Run on soft surfaces like trails or grass.
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Start slow. Let your dog build fitness gradually.
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Carry water and take regular breaks.
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Let them sniff, explore, and enjoy it!
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Check paws and watch for any signs of soreness after runs.
Don’t:
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Run with flat-faced breeds (like pugs or bulldogs) they overheat easily.
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Head out right after feeding, wait two hours.
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Run in extreme weather (hot, cold, icy, or humid).
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Force it. If your dog is lagging or limping, stop.
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Start running with young pups before their joints are fully developed – always ask your vet first.
Ben Mounsey, trail runner and coach with SportsShoes.com, sums it up:
“Running with your dog isn’t just great for fitness, it can keep you accountable, especially on the days when motivation is low. Plus, there’s nothing better than seeing the pure joy on your dog’s face out on the trail.”
So if you’re struggling for motivation this week, maybe your best training partner is already waiting by the door.
