Dogs have versatile personalities and abilities. Some dogs can swim while others work as guard dogs. Similarly, many dog breeds have an undeniable affinity for heights. Whether it is a hiking trail or the top of the couch, these dogs tend to love elevated places.
Their natural instincts, roles in history, and physical characteristics often lead them to explore high places. Dogs prefer elevated landscapes for several reasons. For instance, they might be trying to avoid situations they do not want to deal with.
Some dogs like hiking to burn out their energy and fulfill their daily exercise needs, while others love outdoor adventures because they want to spend valuable time with their owners.
Have a look at 7 popular dog breeds that love high places.
Dog Breeds that Love High Places
1. Border Collie
Breed Profile
Height: 18 to 22 inches
Weight: 30 to 55 pounds
Temperament: Friendly
Lifespan: 12 to 15 years
Border Collies are intelligent dogs having a strong affinity for high places. They were originally bred as herding dogs that used to protect livestock in hilly and mountainous regions. So, they have a natural instinct for climbing.
They often seek high spots to have an eagle-eye view of their surroundings. A Border Collie would love sitting on the top of a hill and surveying their environment. They are alert and agile dogs always ready for action.
Border Collies are highly energetic dogs that require a lot of exercise to avoid destructive behavior. At least 1 to 2 hours of exercise is recommended for these dogs for physical and mental stimulation. Border Collies have a lifespan of 12 to 15 years.
2. Australian Shepherd
Breed Profile
Height: 18 to 23 inches
Weight: 40 to 65 pounds
Temperament: Work-oriented
Lifespan: 12 to 15 years
Yet another immensely intelligent and high-energy dog breed, Australian Shepherds also make it to our list of canines that love high places. These medium-sized dogs were originally bred as working dogs. They have a natural instinct to herd.
Their muscular and agile bodies make them capable of navigating rugged terrains. If you have an Australian Shepherd at your home, you will often find them climbing stairs, hopping onto the sofas, or finding some higher spot for surveillance.
Australian Shepherds have a strong drive to complete the tasks they are given. They are eager to please their humans. These athletic dogs need more than two hours of exercise every day. Physical activity can include long walks, hiking, or play sessions.
3. Jack Russell Terrier
Breed Profile
Height: 12 to 15 inches
Weight: 13 to 17 pounds
Temperament: Playful
Lifespan: 13 to 15 years
Jack Russell Terriers were originally bred for hunting. Their historical lineage empowers them with athletic abilities and adventurous nature, which increases their love for elevated places. Their curiosity and energy also make them explore high places to perch.
Whether to keep an eye on their prey or simply observe their surroundings, Jack Russell Terriers always find a higher spot to sit. Due to higher energy levels, they need intense exercise for physical and mental stimulation.
They have a high prey drive. If their energy is not released in a positive way, they bark excessively, experience anxiety, and can be found digging. PetMD suggests that proper training and socialization can help these pups behave well around kids and other dogs.
4. Labrador Retriever
Breed Profile
Height: 21.5 to 24.5 inches
Weight: 55 to 80 pounds
Temperament: Friendly
Lifespan: 11 to 13 years
Many of us know Labrador Retrievers for their love for water. But do you know Labs also have a penchant for high places? These versatile dogs are capable of navigating various landscapes, ranging from forests to flat ground.
Labrador Retrievers’ long legs and muscular build enable them to climb and jump with great ease. This is the reason you will often see Labs jumping onto a high ledge or exploring rocks. They make ideal canine companions for hiking or camping.
Their protective instincts often drive them to find a higher ground to perch and observe the scene. According to Petplan, an adult Labrador requires around 2 hours of physical activity every day to stay fit.
5. German Shepherd
Breed Profile
Height: 22 to 26 inches
Weight: 50 to 90 pounds
Temperament: Loyal
Lifespan: 7 to 10 years
German Shepherds are popular for their strong work ethic. These highly versatile and intelligent service dogs work in law enforcement and search and rescue operations.
According to the American Kennel Club, GSDs are muscular dogs with a sturdy and athletic build. These physical traits enable them to navigate tough terrains.
Their instinct to survey and guard their territory leads to their love for high places. These dogs often try to find an elevated spot for surveying their surroundings and detecting potential threats.
German Shepherds can also climb fences and find their way to the high spots around the home to keep their family members safe. German Shepherds have high energy levels and need a minimum of two hours of activity to stay healthy.
If you are looking for a canine buddy to accompany you on a hike or some other outdoor activity, German Shepherds make an ideal pet for you.
6. Belgian Malinois
Breed Profile
Height: 22 to 26 inches
Weight: 40 to 80 pounds
Temperament: Loyal
Lifespan: 14 to 16 years
Just like the German Shepherd, the Belgian Malinois is a highly active and intelligent dog breed. This working dog thrives in elevated environments. Their alert nature and protective instincts often drive them to find high places as vantage points to observe their surroundings.
Due to their high decision-making skills and physical strength, Belgian Malinois are often used for police and military work. They love to explore, and their athleticism makes them naturally born climbers. They need one to two hours of vigorous daily exercise.
Belgian Malinois have a double coat. The thick and dense outer coat covers the soft undercoat. The coat provides insulation and protects them against harsh weather. Regular grooming can help maintain their coat.
7. Cairn Terrier
Breed Profile
Height: Around 10 inches
Weight: 13 to 14 pounds
Temperament: Social
Lifespan: 13 to 15 years
Cairn Terriers are small dogs that were originally bred to hunt small game like foxes. Their bold and tenacious personality and curious nature drive them to explore elevated places. These high-energy dogs are capable of adapting to various environments.
Whether it’s a rocky hill or hopping onto a sofa, Cairn Terriers never hesitate to climb. Their adventurous personalities make them eager to seek out high places, and that too, with a sense of determination.
Cairn Terriers are energetic dogs that require one hour of exercise every day. According to WebMD, they have a short coat that does not require much grooming. Trim your Cairn Terrier’s nails regularly, as long nails can make the dog uncomfortable in walking or jumping.
Conclusion
Several dogs have a special affinity for higher places, such as Siberian huskies, Golden Retrievers, and other breeds mentioned in the article. This love for elevated landscapes is due to their natural instincts, curiosity, and intelligence. So, next time you see your dog sitting on a higher spot, remember they are trying to channel their inner energy!
