10 Best High-Energy Dog Breeds for Active People
Every dog is unique, but breed plays a key role in determining a dog's energy level. High-energy breeds, such as herding and working dogs, are naturally active and require plenty of mental and physical stimulation to stay happy (see how much exercise you dog need HERE). Without enough exercise, these dogs may develop destructive habits or behavioral issues.
In addition to their energy levels, these breeds vary in size, temperament, and appearance. However, they all share one thing in common—they thrive when kept busy and need an active owner who can keep up with their energetic lifestyle.
Here are 10 of the most energetic dog breeds you should know about.
Tip
Daily walks may not be sufficient for some of these high-energy dogs. Consider engaging in dog sports like agility or fetch to provide extra physical and mental stimulation.
1. Border Collie
Border Collies are renowned for their intelligence and boundless energy. Originally bred as herding dogs, they excel in agility and disc competitions. These dogs need a “job” to stay fulfilled—whether it’s chasing toys, solving puzzles, or learning new tricks.
Breed Overview:
- Height: 18 to 22 inches
- Weight: 30 to 55 pounds
- Physical Traits: Medium-length coat (smooth or rough), with colors including tricolor, merle, and sable; athletic and well-balanced body.
2. Australian Shepherd
Highly intelligent and energetic, Australian Shepherds are also fantastic at dog sports. Originally bred for herding, these dogs require mental and physical stimulation. If not given a proper outlet, they may turn to chasing animals or people to burn off their energy. They thrive with structure and training.
Breed Overview:
- Height: 18 to 23 inches
- Weight: 40 to 65 pounds
- Physical Traits: Medium-length coat, balanced body, with colors like black, blue merle, and red merle.
3. Australian Cattle Dog
The Australian Cattle Dog is a highly driven and energetic breed, known for its stamina and work ethic. Bred to herd cattle over long distances, these dogs require significant exercise and mental challenges. They excel in dog sports and love engaging in activities like puzzle games or learning new tricks.
Breed Overview:
- Height: 17 to 20 inches
- Weight: 30 to 50 pounds
- Physical Traits: Strong build, smooth double coat, with blue and red variations, and black and tan markings.
4. Jack Russell Terrier
Jack Russells are small but full of energy! These terriers are far from lazy lap dogs and need vigorous daily exercise. Without enough physical activity, they may resort to digging, barking, or other destructive behaviors. They do well in dog sports and enjoy learning new tricks.
Breed Overview:
- Height: 13 to 14 inches
- Weight: 13 to 17 pounds
- Physical Traits: Smooth or wiry coat, with markings of black, tan, and brown over a predominantly white body.
5. Weimaraner
Weimaraners are athletic dogs with a strong hunting instinct. They have a natural desire to run long distances and require plenty of exercise to stay content. These dogs can be hyperactive if not properly trained and exercised, often becoming destructive if left idle for too long.
Breed Overview:
- Height: 23 to 27 inches
- Weight: 55 to 90 pounds
- Physical Traits: Sleek, muscular build with a short coat in shades of blue or gray.
6. Belgian Malinois
Often employed by law enforcement and military units, the Belgian Malinois is a highly intelligent and driven breed. These dogs thrive on having a job to do, whether it's in dog sports or activities like nose work and tracking. Their physical and mental needs require daily exercise and stimulation.
Breed Overview:
- Height: 22 to 26 inches
- Weight: 40 to 80 pounds
- Physical Traits: Muscular build with a short coat in fawn, mahogany, or red, typically with a black mask.
7. Siberian Husky
Siberian Huskies were bred to pull sleds over long distances in cold climates, which means they have high exercise requirements. These dogs enjoy long walks, hikes, and runs. However, be cautious in hot weather, as their thick coats can make them prone to overheating.
Breed Overview:
- Height: 20 to 24 inches
- Weight: 35 to 60 pounds
- Physical Traits: Medium-length double coat in colors like gray, black, red, and white; balanced body with striking facial markings.
8. Dalmatian
Historically, Dalmatians kept up with horses and carriages, and their high endurance is still evident today. They need plenty of exercise, or they may become restless and develop undesirable behaviors like excessive barking. Active owners will find these dogs to be excellent hiking or running companions.
Breed Overview:
- Height: 19 to 24 inches
- Weight: 45 to 70 pounds
- Physical Traits: Short, dense coat, typically white with black or brown spots.
9. Boxer
Boxers are playful, fun-loving dogs with a ton of energy. They need plenty of exercise and love interacting with people and other dogs. Playtime, long walks, and doggie daycare are great ways to keep them entertained and burn off their excess energy.
Breed Overview:
- Height: 22 to 25 inches
- Weight: 50 to 80 pounds
- Physical Traits: Muscular build with a short coat, in colors like brindle, fawn, and white, often with a black mask.
10. Irish Setter
Irish Setters are fast and energetic dogs, originally bred for hunting. These dogs need daily exercise to maintain their energy levels and remain healthy. They are friendly and eager to please but can be somewhat rambunctious. They do well in dog sports like obedience and agility.
Breed Overview:
- Height: 25 to 27 inches
- Weight: 60 to 70 pounds
- Physical Traits: Silky coat with long feathering and fringe, available in red, chestnut, or mahogany colors.
Breeds with Lower Energy Levels
If you’re looking for a more laid-back dog, there are breeds that tend to be more relaxed. Some examples include bulldogs, pugs, chow chows, basset hounds, and Shih Tzus. While these dogs may not require as much exercise, they still need daily walks and playtime to maintain good health.