Anyone familiar with dogs will know that there are some dogs you can barely move off the couch, some who are happy with a daily walk, and others who seem to have boundless energy and want to go, go, go. Partnering with one of these energetic breeds will almost guarantee that your life will become much more interesting and exciting.
Dog breeds all developed over the centuries for specific purposes, with the result that some breeds not only want, but need, a high level of exercise to maintain them. Dogs with high energy levels will neither be happy, nor make you happy, if they are not provided with a way to burn off some of that canine electricity.
Dogs Who Don’t Know the Meaning of Rest
People have long relied upon the speed, energy, and strength of dogs to make life easier – herding and hunting is much simpler when dogs are helping. The fast reflexes of certain breeds of dog, those with the most energy, still provide assistance to their human friends in a number of ways. Some of the dogs with the highest energy levels can be found below, and can help you make the right choice when you’re looking for a new family member.
Parson Jack Russell Terriers
Parson Jack Russell Terriers are a very popular breed of dog, originally bred to hunt vermin and small game. The energy level of these dogs is very high, and those who welcome one into the home must be prepared to give them plenty of opportunity to release it daily. Adorable as puppies, JRs are not the lap dog many people think them to be and are best in active homes or on farms.
Australian Shepherd
The Australian Shepherd was bred to help herd sheep and cattle, and as such is a dog that not only needs, but enjoys a rigorous life. These dogs attach strongly to their human family, but still need daily ‘work’ to stay happy. Because they learn easily, they are good at agility, but will probably be happiest on farms or ranches doing what they enjoy most – herding and guarding animals.
Dalmatians
Dalmatians originated as dogs that were meant to run long miles without tiring, and were used as protection against bandits and highwaymen. Possessing great stamina, Dalmatians followed their masters on horseback or escorted coaches or carriages. Unlike many energetic dogs, Dalmatians do not have a particularly high prey drive and can be trusted around other household pets. They are good with children, but their friendliness should never blind you to the fact that they need heavy exercise every day. Running along a bicycle is one way to exercise these dogs, and those who enjoy jogging or running will find the Dalmatian an excellent companion.
English Springer Spaniel
The English Springer Spaniel began as a hunting and retrieving dog, and the activity needed for these sports is still reflected in the dog’s high exercise needs. Good with the human pack, Springer Spaniels should always be considered working dogs and given the opportunity to use their inborn instincts in the field, although agility is a good substitute for hunting. They love to swim, so those who live near water can let their dogs exercise this way.
Siberian Huskies
Siberian Huskies are beautiful and impressive looking dogs. The Chukchi Tribe of Siberia bred these dogs for a multitude of purposes – pulling sleds, hunting, and herding reindeer. From the beginning, the Siberian Husky was a dog with a great deal of energy, and the same holds true today. Huskies that are not given an adequate amount of exercise can cause numerous problems. Not only will they be likely to rip up furniture in the home, they will dig up your yard (or the yards of your neighbors), and will do all they can to escape from the home or a fenced backyard. This is a great dog if you love winter sports, and they naturally do best in a cooler climate.
Vizsla
A very attractive and athletic looking hunting dog, the Vizsla has gained in popularity in recent years. The Vizsla is relatively easy to train and obedient, but don’t let that easy-going personality fool you, this dog requires vast amounts of exercise every day. This breed not only makes an excellent hunting companion that doesn’t tire easily, it is also perfect for people who enjoy outdoor sports. Running alongside a bicycle or going on a walk of several miles can help keep the Vizsla sound in mind and body. Like many of the high energy dogs, the Vizsla is not really suited to apartment living.
Miniature Schnauzer
Don’t let the small size of the Miniature Schnauzer fool you; this guy is actually a little dynamo who needs plenty of daily exercise. A smaller version of the Giant and Standard Schnauzer, all members of this family have high energy levels that should be satisfied every day. Long walks and plenty of play will help keep your Miniature Schnauzer satisfied and provide you with a great pet. Regular exercise will make apartment living suitable for these dogs.
Airedale Terrier
The Airedale Terrier is not only a very popular family pet, but also an active dog that enjoys doing ‘work’. These dogs were originally used to hunt otters in England, and not only have a great store of energy, but still enjoy the water. Because they are very intelligent, they do best with families that present them with exercise ‘challenges’ to keep them sharp. Airedales can learn to do nearly anything, so are good in the field or at agility. They do love to dig and will moonscape your yard if not exercised enough.
Do You Want a High Energy Dog?
When you are considering a dog for the home, it’s always best to do some research before buying a puppy. Many dogs with enormous levels of energy start out as very cute puppies, but develop into larger dogs that need to work out every day. These dogs usually have a lot of stamina and will be able to go for hours without rest. High energy dogs began as working dogs of one kind or another, and that is part of their heritage. If you are an outdoor person or someone who hunts, one of these dogs, even the smaller ones, can be ideal, but for those who expect a Siberian Husky to become a lap dog, they are in for disappointment. Being honest with what you expect out of a dog and yourself can make it more likely that you and your dog will spend many happy years together.