Trail Tails: 14 Dog Breeds That Make the Perfect Hiking Companions
Do you want a dog that can match your enthusiasm for hiking?
If you’re thinking about getting a dog that can join you on your adventures, it’s important to consider the breed that best suits your lifestyle. For avid hikers, you’ll need a versatile dog breed that can handle the peaks and troughs of the trail. Some breeds are natural-born explorers and will thrive on challenging adventures, no matter the weather. In this article, we spoke to experts, including dog trainers, veterinarians, behaviorists, and experienced dog owners, to identify the best dog breeds for hiking. Let’s dive in and explore the 14 best dog breeds for your hiking adventures.
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Bernese Mountain Dog
The Bernese Mountain Dog is a large, strong breed originally bred in the Swiss Alps for herding and pulling carts. Weighing between 80-120 pounds, they are known for their boundless energy and strength, making them excellent hiking companions. They are friendly, good with people and other dogs, and easy to train. However, their size can be challenging to manage on hikes, and their thick coats make them ideal for cooler weather.
Suggested by Jeff Netzley, Dog Trainer and Creator of Dog Training Near You.
Jack Russell Terriers
Jack Russell Terriers are energetic and playful dogs that thrive on sniffing and exploring, making them excellent hiking companions. They need about 90 minutes of high-quality exercise daily, which hiking can easily fulfill. Despite their boundless energy, their small size means you can carry them in a backpack if they tire or if you encounter difficult terrain. Known for their loyalty, Jack Russells will stick by your side, though their curiosity might lead them to follow scents before quickly returning to you.
Suggested by Aleksandar Mishkov, Editor And Owner Of The Daily Tail
Great Pyrenees
Great Pyrenees are powerful dogs known for their strong protective instincts and loyalty to their families. They thrive when working and playing alongside humans and are happiest in environments where they have a role. Due to their tendency to get excited and possibly chase after things, socialization is crucial to ensure they remain calm and well-behaved. With proper training and socialization, Great Pyrenees make excellent, gentle companions.
Suggested by Alex Romilly, Editor And Pet Expert Of Mydogbreed.com
Poodle
If you’re looking for a dog to accompany you on your hikes, consider a Poodle. They are a very active breed, perfect for outdoor adventures. With their keen sense of smell, they excel in environments full of diverse scents. Additionally, their intelligence makes them quick learners, able to master the commands and tricks needed for a successful hiking companion. Poodles are not only energetic but also adaptable and eager to please.
Suggested by Aaron Rice, Expert Dog Trainer At Stayyy
Blue Heeler
The reality is most dogs can out-hike a normal person effortlessly, but if hiking were a competitive sport with extreme demands, I’d go with a Blue Heeler. They have elite stamina, exceptional tolerance for heat and cold, and a weather-resistant coat. Agile and compact, they can navigate obstacles and run up and down hills with ease. Their alertness and intelligence help them detect wildlife quickly, and they have a unique ability to safely kill venomous snakes. With resilient feet and overall toughness, Blue Heelers are built for the most challenging hikes.
Suggested by Dr. Amanda Takiguchi, Veterinarian And Founder of Trending Breeds
Weimaraner
The Weimaraner is a large hunting dog originally bred in Germany, known for its athleticism and boundless energy. Weighing between 70-85 pounds, they make excellent hiking companions for those who can handle their size. Weimaraners are obedient and easy to train, and they are generally good around people and other dogs, although they may chase small animals on the trail. They require a lot of exercise, making them best suited for experienced hikers who can meet their physical activity needs.
Suggested by Jeff Netzley, Dog Trainer and Creator of Dog Training Near You.
German Shepherd
The German Shepherd is a sturdy, high-energy breed well-suited for hiking. These dogs love to have fun and are great with people and kids, making them excellent companions for outdoor activities. Their friendly demeanor and eagerness to please provide extra motivation for enjoying nature. With their strong work ethic and trainability, German Shepherds make the perfect hiking partners.
Suggested by Alex Romilly, Editor And Pet Expert Of Mydogbreed.com
Border Collie
The Border Collie is a herding dog bred to work all day in the Scottish Highlands. They are incredibly intelligent and energetic, making them ideal hiking companions. Weighing between 30-50 pounds, they are manageable on hikes and love to run and play for miles. Border Collies are known for their obedience and ease of training, generally not pulling on leashes and being good around other people and dogs.
Suggested by Jeff Netzley, Dog Trainer And Creator of Dog Training Near You
German Shorthaired Pointer
German Shorthaired Pointers are often considered among the best hiking dogs due to their natural athleticism and love for outdoor activities. Bred to be versatile, they excel in hunting and pointing, making them adept at navigating different terrains. Known for their robust health, they are like canine triathletes, ready for any adventure that comes their way on a hike.
Suggested by Leonardo Gomez, Founder of Try Runball
Labrador Retriever
Labrador Retrievers are indeed excellent hiking companions due to their physical abilities, intelligence, and endurance. They’re often well-suited for various outdoor activities thanks to their versatile nature.
Suggested by Hilda Wong, Founder of Bark Posts
Siberian Husky
Siberian Huskies are indeed great companions for hiking and camping due to their athleticism, protective nature, and affectionate temperament. They can be a bit challenging in terms of carrying equipment but make up for it with their loyalty and sensitivity.
Suggested by Alex Romilly, Editor And Pet Expert Of Mydogbreed.com
Doberman
Dobermans are indeed intelligent and strong dogs, but they may not be the best choice for hiking due to their temperament and specific training needs. They can be protective and may exhibit dominance, which could lead to challenges on hiking trails, especially around other dogs or unfamiliar situations. It’s crucial to ensure they are well-trained and socialized before embarking on outdoor adventures like hiking.
Suggested by James, Founder Of Neurodoglux.com
Golden Retriever
It sounds like Oosh is a fantastic hiking companion! Golden Retrievers are indeed well-suited for hiking due to their stamina, friendly nature, and willingness to follow commands. Keeping them on leash in wilderness areas is a good practice to ensure their safety and the safety of wildlife.
Suggested by Carole Murphy, Experienced Golden Retriever Owner And Creative Content Designer At SewingThis.com
Beagle
Beagles do make great hiking companions with their stamina and friendly nature. Their tendency to chase small animals can be managed with training, and their vocal nature can indeed be a useful warning signal on the trail!
Suggested by Jack Williams, CEO and Founder Of HandymanReviewed
