Dogs are called man’s best friend for a reason. They give us unconditional love, alert us to strangers at our door, and are our constant companions. But one of the best ways they contribute to our wellbeing is by encouraging us to get outside and get some exercise.
While all dog breeds need some form of exercise to stay healthy, there are certain breeds that are better suited for families who need a little extra push to get outside and be active. The following are a few of the best breeds that promote owner exercise and contribute their Wellbeing.
Labrador Retriever – The Lab is consistently one of the most popular dog breed in America and it’s not hard to understand why. They love people, are eager to please and easy to train. They love to be outdoors and would be a great choice for hikers and backpackers.
German Shorthaired Pointer – Originally bred to be a hunting dog, this breed still takes that job seriously today. They are hard workers and very intelligent. They need a lot of mental and physical exercise daily and would be a good match for those looking for a hunting or camping companion.
Jack Russell Terrier – This breed is a mighty dog in a small body. They are incredibly independent and need experienced owners to keep them focused. They must be kept busy at all times, so a family that participates in a lot of dog-friendly activities would be a good fit.
Border Collie – The Border Collie is a herder by nature and can often be found herding other family pets and even children. They are incredibly smart and love having a job to do so they don’t get bored. Those looking to become involved in dog classes such as agility would love this breed.
Miniature Pinscher – Like the JRT, the Min Pin is a small dog with a big personality. Because of their size, they can be active indoors without much trouble, but love to be outside in warm weather as well. They love a good romp in the park and will drag their owners outside for daily walks.
If you are committed to a healthy, active lifestyle – Wellbeing, one of these dogs may be the right fit for you. But make sure you are dedicated to a new level of activity before bringing one of these high-energy dogs into your home. Even if you give up on exercise, these dogs won’t and could become destructive if not allowed to exercise.
And, as always, remember that bringing a dog home is a life-long commitment! Do research and make sure that the dog you choose is the perfect fit for you. Because the perfect human/canine fit can truly make a house into a home.
Heather Reynolds is a pet lover and internet journalist at Trupanion, North America’s fastest growing pet insurance company. Trupanion offers 90% coverage of veterinary bills with no payout limits. Enrolled pets receive lifetime coverage for diagnostic tests, surgeries, and medications if they become sick or injured.
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