The Perfect Companion For An Active Lifestyle: 15 Dogs That Need Plenty Of Exercise

Written by Morten Lyhne Petersen

Mar.13 - 2025 1:57 PM CET

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If you're considering getting a dog that can keep up with your active lifestyle, it's essential to choose a breed with plenty of energy.

Some dogs have an extra gear and need daily exercise to thrive—otherwise, they may become restless and even a bit destructive.

This means long walks, runs, playtime, and mental stimulation to keep them happy and healthy.

These dogs are best suited for people who love being outdoors and staying active and who have the time to provide the exercise they require.

If you want a dog that's always ready for adventure, check out these high-energy breeds!

Border Collie

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  • Super intelligent and lightning-fast

  • Loves agility, herding work, and running free

  • Needs at least 2 hours of exercise daily

Australian Cattle Dog

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  • Highly resilient and active

  • Requires tasks and mental stimulation

  • Perfect for long hikes, running, and training

Siberian Husky

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  • Bred to pull sleds—endless energy

  • Thrives on long runs and plenty of space

  • Can become highly destructive without enough exercise

Dalmatian

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  • Originally a carriage dog—loves speed

  • Needs at least 1.5-2 hours of activity daily

  • Can become hyperactive if bored

Weimaraner

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  • Super athletic hunting dog

  • Needs intense daily exercise

  • Running, swimming, and tracking are ideal activities

Vizsla

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  • A dog with endless energy

  • Requires long walks and mentally stimulating tasks

  • Can become restless without challenges

Belgian Malinois

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  • A favorite of police and military—for good reason

  • Extremely hardworking and requires a very active owner

  • Not a breed for beginners

Jack Russell Terrier

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  • Small but with enormous energy levels

  • Needs lots of play and training

  • Perfect for agility and brain games

Labrador Retriever

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  • Friendly and happy, but incredibly energetic

  • Loves swimming and retrieving games

  • Requires daily exercise to avoid weight gain

Golden Retriever

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  • A family dog with high energy and playfulness

  • Thrives on long walks, swimming, and ball games

  • Needs at least 1.5 hours of exercise daily

Doberman

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  • Athletic and strong with great endurance

  • Requires daily training to stay balanced

  • Loyal, protective, and very active

German Shepherd

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  • Highly intelligent and hardworking

  • Thrives on physical and mental stimulation

  • Can become destructive without enough activity

Springer Spaniel

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  • Energetic hunting dog that loves long walks and water

  • Needs daily exercise

  • Requires mental challenges to thrive

Rhodesian Ridgeback

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  • Bred for hunting—strong, fast, and independent

  • Needs at least 1.5-2 hours of daily exercise

  • Best suited for an experienced dog owner

Alaskan Malamute

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  • Sled dog with immense strength and endurance

  • Loves running, pulling, and working

  • Gets bored quickly without enough activity