The Best Dog Breeds for Walking

Last updated Jul 1, 2020 0

Walking the dog is viewed as a fundamental component of dog ownership, making it easy to overlook the fact that not all dogs serve as the best walking companions. Large, active breeds often need to run to relieve their energy; small, inactive breeds may be unable to keep up pace and may lack the stamina to walk any further than short distances.

Desirability as a walking companion is mainly a function of a breed’s size, activity level and stamina.

Collie

Most large breeds of dogs prefer running to walking and will have a tendency to pull, run ahead and not walk comfortably with their human companion; the collie is a notable exception. Often described as “couch potatoes,” these 50-to-70-lb. canines are known for being loyal and easy to train. Collies require a relatively small amount of exercise given their size.

They make excellent companions on long walks, as they are able to keep up with their owner and posses the endurance to walk for miles, unlike many smaller dog breeds. Collies are very loyal and love to be near people, so they typically do a good job of walking alongside their handler.

RELATED :: Collie Breed Information

Yorkshire Terrier

Commonly referred to as “Yorkies,” Yorkshire terriers are toy dogs with a large amount of energy for their size. They average between a mere 4 to 7 lbs. but are able to walk for miles. Their small size allows them to not require long or frequent walks; if necessary, they can be sufficiently exercised by playing inside the house.

However, they enjoy going for walks, and walking is the preferred form of exercise for these dogs. If you want a dog to walk with you regularly, but may sometimes have to miss a day, this breed is ideal.

Corgi

There are two breeds of corgis–cardigan welsh corgis and Pembroke welsh corgis–both of which make great walking companions. They are both small dogs, weighing 25 to 35 lbs.

Cardigan welsh corgis are larger and require more exercise than the Pembroke welsh corgis, although they both require daily walks to meet their physical needs. They do well on leisurely walks and will happily walk for a mile or more at a time.

Cocker Spaniel

Cocker spaniels are small energetic dogs that require daily exercise. They have remarkable endurance for their size, which is typically between 22 to 28 pounds. Surprisingly quick, the cocker spaniel can easily keep up the pace on moderate to vigorous walks.

RELATED :: Cocker Spaniel Breed Information

Golden Retriever

Golden retrievers can be a bit rambunctious and may pull. If you like to power walk or walk for long distances, this energetic dog will be able to keep up with you.

These 55-to-75-lb. dogs may seem better suited for a running partner, however, according to the Golden Retriever Club of America, the American Kennel Club Parent Club of the golden retriever, they should not be used as running partners for the first two years of their life while their bone growth plates are still forming due to the risk of serious injury.

Golden retrievers are also used as guide dogs to serve as walking companions for the blind.

RELATED :: Golden Retriever Breed Information

You Might Also Like :: The Best Dog Breeds for Families