Dogs are athletic creatures—some of them are known for their super speed, while others are capable of pulling heavy weights. Similarly, certain dog breeds can jump high!
Do You Know? A Greyhound female named Feather from the U.S., holds the Guinness World Record for the highest jump by a dog. The jump recorded was 75.5 inches or 191.7cm high.
High-jump dog breeds possess natural agility, muscle strength, and a strong muscular build. These sturdy canines also excel at other dog sports like agility courses, herding, and hunting. If you are looking for a dog breed with excellent jumping skills, this article is for you.
Here are the top 9 high-jumping dog breeds having a natural ability to leap great distances.
High Jump Dog Breeds
1. Australian Shepherd
Australian Shepherd is a strong and agile dog originally bred for herding livestock. This athletic canine is known for its excellent jumping abilities, which can easily be seen in frisbee dog events. Aussies can jump as high as five feet.
Sometimes Aussies can use this trait while greeting people out of excitement, which is not so desirable. However, they make excellent family pets due to their intelligence and loyalty. Australian Shepherds excel at agility sports and competitions that involve jumping over obstacles.
These high-energy dogs need a great deal of exercise every day to stay healthy and happy. PDSA recommends at least two hours of daily activity for these pups.
2. Greyhound
Greyhounds are the world’s fastest couch potatoes, having a speed of 45 miles per hour, and their jumping ability is equally impressive. Their strong hind legs and lean bodies are meant for jumping over long distances.
Their surprising agility, combined with speed makes them a pro at jumping. They love running and chasing, due to which they do well at dog racing, leaping, coursing, and agility competitions. These companion dogs make wonderful pets due to their loving and gentle demeanor.
Greyhounds are not as energetic as many other breeds. They require around one hour of exercise every day. Backyard activities are acceptable, but it is important to take your dog for daily walks as well.
3. German Shepherd
German Shepherds are working dogs that make wonderful companions. They have been employed for military and police work due to their intelligence and strength. Their agility and strong hind legs contribute to their amazing jumping abilities.
German Shepherds can jump up to six feet high if given proper space and momentum. And they demonstrate this skill in competitions and training exercises. Their stamina, enthusiasm, and athleticism make them excellent jumpers.
GSDs have a strong drive that allows them to clear all barriers with great ease. They are well-suited for agility training, herding, tracking, and dock diving.
4. Jack Russell Terrier
These small yet strong canines are known for their big leaps. This muscular breed is highly determined when it comes to jumping. Jack Russell Terriers can jump as high as five feet, and that is quite impressive, especially for a small dog breed.
Jack Russell Terriers were originally bred as hunting dogs. Their fearless nature and adventurous streak enable them to leap great distances. They will show off their jumping abilities while leaping after a toy or scaling a fence.
According to PetPlan, Jack Russell Terriers have boundless energy. At least one hour of daily exercise can provide adequate physical and mental stimulation to these loyal dogs.
5. Whippet
Whippets possess incredible speed and agility, just like their relative, Greyhounds. Despite their small size, they can jump great heights of around four to five feet. These light and nimble dogs can also scale obstacles with great ease.
These natural athletes thrive on activities involving leaping and running, such as agility training and lure courses. Their sleek bodies and powerful legs add to their jumping prowess. Whippets are gentle and affectionate dogs who stay calm indoors.
They need around one hour of exercise every day. Whippets need an enclosed space, such as a fenced yard, to run and play off-leash.
6. Vizsla
Another high-jump dog breed, Viszlas are known for their energetic nature and athleticism. They were bred originally for hunting and thrive in active environments where they can run, jump, and explore as much as they like.
Vizslas can jump as high as 5 to 6 feet. They do great at agility competitions that test their jumping abilities. This dog breed, with great enthusiasm, is always ready for action. Their super high energy levels call for plenty of exercise.
A Vizsla needs about two hours of exercise every day. These intelligent and loyal dogs form strong bonds with their humans. Vizslas do not bark excessively and make excellent watchdogs, explains Hill’s Pet.
7. Border Collie
Border Collies were bred originally for herding sheep. Their strong reflexes and sharp minds make them capable of conquering agility courses. These highly intelligent and agile dogs have a sky-rocketing energy drive. Due to these traits, Border Collies make excellent high-jumping dogs.
Their strong and muscular legs assist them in jumping, whether they are chasing after a ball or leaping through hurdles in an agility course. Border Collies love challenges and are likely to get bored when they do not have a task to do.
They excel at dog sports like agility, obedience trials, and flyball. This energetic breed needs plenty of daily exercise to stay happy and content and is therefore well suited for active households.
8. Belgian Malinois
Belgian Malinois is a smart dog with a strong body. Due to its exceptional agility and intelligence, it is used for search and rescue work. Mals also make great police and military dogs. Originally bred for herding flocks, they are pro at jumping through the obstacles that come in their path.
Their strong legs, athleticism, and soaring courage make them jump so high, it seems like they are defying gravity. Mals are fearless and always ready to take up challenges. They can jump up to eight feet high.
Belgian Malinois have high energy levels—they need at least two hours of activity every day to get adequate physical and mental stimulation.
9. Australian Kelpie
Australian Kelpie is a lesser-known breed, but it surpasses many others in agility and jumping abilities. Kelpies have broken records with their ability to scale jaw-dropping heights. They can jump as high as 9.6 feet.
Kelpies are always up for things that test their extraordinary athleticism and strong work ethic. Their boundless energy makes them ideal for active pet parents who love outdoor adventures.
The American Kennel Club recommends a good jog or a long workout combined with mental exercise for these pups.
Australian Kelpies are highly trainable and eager to please dogs who love running around with their family instead of lying down as a lap dog.
Conclusion
Several dog breeds are known for their endurance, stamina, and athleticism. They excel at dog sports like high jumping due to their strong bodies and high spirits. If you are planning to adopt a strong and agile furry friend, one of the breeds mentioned in this article may be the right fit for you.
