It’s outdoor season and it seems like everyone in the Boston area has come out of the woodwork to enjoy the fresh air and sunshine. This past winter was a struggle and you may have found that you put on a few pounds. As a professional dog training and dog boarding company, we believe that the best way to get back in shape and stay active this season is with the help of a canine companion.
If you and your family are ready for a dog (or perhaps another dog in addition to the one you have) that’s as active as you are, here are a few breed suggestions to consider.
Dog Breeds for Active Individuals and Families
- Labrador Retriever. Whenever someone thinks of a playful or active dog, the first though is usually a lab. Fun-loving and athletic, these dogs love water as they were originally bred as waterfowl hunting dogs. Keep in mind that labs have an appetite and will eat just about anything, so be sure to feed it a nutritious diet so they have the energy to tackle your running or hiking route. Labs will gain weight if not exercised enough, so don’t forget to talk to your vet about portion control.
- Siberian Husky. The husky has gained popularity over the past decade — especially in the northeast where winters can be long and cold. If you’re an winter outdoor enthusiast, then why not consider a husky? These dogs were bred to pull sleds in Alaska and throughout Canada but seem to fit right into the Boston climate. They do have difficulty in hot weather, so make sure they are properly hydrated and that your home is equipped with air conditioning.
- Vizsla. Always curious, high-energy, and nimble, Vizslas feel right at home on forest trains or mountains. They won’t wander off like other breeds, making them the perfect off-leash companion throughout your outdoor adventure. These dogs are also not afraid to get their feet when when the time calls for it, but due to their thin coat of hair, you will need to make sure they’re bundled up during the winter months.
- Border Collie. Although any breed of collie will be a great outdoor companion, it’s the border collie that gains all the attention. This particular collie breed can run all day without tiring. As many know, Collies were bred to herd cattle, sheep, and other domesticated farm animals. Due to this longstanding job, they are intelligent and will never leave your side. We do recommend making sure your collie heads to the groomers regularly as they have long, thick coats. Don’t forget to also check for ticks after your outdoor adventure.
- German Shorthair Pointer. Also bred to retrieve water fowl and other birds such as quail and pheasant, German Shorthair Pointers are a beautiful dog that you don’t see quite often anymore. Long legs and a keen nose require them to be kept off leash when heading outdoors as they need plenty of daily exercise. Reliable and tireless, when trained properly they are the perfect running and cycling companion.
When to Consider Dog Training for Athletic Dogs
One important piece of information to take away from this list is that all of these dogs are high energy. We strongly encourage individuals who are considering these dogs to also opt for professional dog training. Many parks and recreational spaces throughout the Boston area and the Northeast require dogs to be well-behaved an on-leash. Canine College is here to help your dog learn how to harness their energy in a controlled manner while outside. Is your dog not behaving while out on the trails? Contact us today to learn more about our training programs!
