Some dogs are content with a quick stroll around the block—but others? They need the doggy equivalent of a marathon just to feel satisfied.
If you’ve got one of these high-energy pups, you already know the drill: leash in hand, sneakers on, and a never-ending walking playlist queued up. These breeds were born to move.
Whether it’s a herding instinct, working dog heritage, or just an endless supply of energy, some breeds crave long, stimulating walks—and lots of them. And it’s not just about physical movement; these dogs also need the mental stimulation that comes with sniffing, exploring, and adventuring.
We’ll explore the breeds that consider “long walks” a basic necessity. If you’re looking for a couch companion, these may not be your match—but if you want a furry fitness buddy who’ll push you out the door every day, these dogs might just change your life.
Lace up—it’s time to meet the ultimate canine walking partners.
Dog Breeds Who Need the Longest Daily Walks
1. Beagle
If you thought you were going for a “walk,” your Beagle thought you were signing up for an epic scent-fueled expedition across the galaxy (or at least the neighborhood). These dogs aren’t just walkers — they’re explorers. Every leaf, bush, and lamppost is a clue in a grand mystery only they can solve.
Beagles were bred to trail scents for miles and miles, which means your quick stroll around the block is basically just their warm-up. If they had it their way, walks would last all day, preferably through forests, fields, and maybe a farmer’s market where snacks “mysteriously” drop to the ground.
That super-powered nose needs regular exercise, and every smell must be investigated immediately.
Beagles have more stamina than your running shoes. Trust us, they’ll walk circles around you.
Without mental and physical stimulation, they’ll invent their own fun (like redecorating your trash can).
Beagles love meeting other dogs, people, squirrels, pigeons… basically, anything that moves.
Bonus: A long walk means a tired Beagle — and a tired Beagle is less likely to organize a jailbreak from your backyard.
So if you’re looking for a walking buddy with enthusiasm, stamina, and an unshakable dedication to sniffing everything, the Beagle will gladly lead the way — nose first, tail wagging, and heart full of adventure.
2. American Staffordshire Terrier
The American Staffordshire Terrier, often referred to as the AmStaff, is a strong, compact, and devoted breed. Despite standing at just about 18 inches tall, these powerful dogs can weigh up to 70 pounds, though most typically fall within the 40 to 60-pound range.
Don’t be fooled by their muscular frame and “tough dog” stare — the AmStaff is basically a big-hearted athlete in disguise.
These pups are energetic, intelligent, and need their daily workout like you need your morning coffee. Without it? Expect zoomies, sofa parkour, or the occasional redecoration of your backyard.
Built like canine tanks — they’ve got stamina to spare.
Smart cookies — and boredom is their arch-nemesis.
Loyal companions — they’ll strut proudly beside you, matching your pace and your mood.
Walking an AmStaff isn’t just about burning off energy — it’s about engaging their sharp minds and giving them the stimulation they crave. They’re curious, confident, and love exploring the world alongside their favorite human (that’s you!).
PetMD noted parents should plan for at least 60 minutes of daily exercise for their AmStaff, which can be split into shorter sessions throughout the day. These energetic dogs love active play—games like chase and tug-of-war are among their favorites—but they’ll enjoy just about any form of vigorous physical activity.
3. Labrador Retriever
The Labrador Retriever ranks as one of the most popular dog breeds in the U.S.—and with good reason. These medium- to large-sized sporting dogs are known for their high energy, friendly demeanor, and strong bond with people, making them excellent family companions.
Originally bred for retrieving ducks and doing serious field work, Labradors need long walks, runs, and swims — basically anything active that doesn’t involve sitting still.
A Labrador Retriever on a walk is like a kid at Disney World — excited about everything, all at once, all the time.
They’re not hyper — they’re just built for action 25 hours a day.
A walk = new friends, new smells, new puddles to dive in.
Mental stimulation is as important as physical.
If your route includes a pond, be ready to lose them to the splash zone.
Labs are lovable goofballs with endless energy, and if you’re not walking them, they’re probably giving you side-eye with a leash in their mouth. Walks help keep their bodies fit and their minds from getting into mischief (like opening the treat jar… again).
With their wagging tails, floppy ears, and zest for life, Labradors make every walk feel like the best day ever — because to them, it really is.
4. German Shorthaired Pointer
If the German Shorthaired Pointer (GSP) had a motto, it’d be: “Why walk when we could run… for hours?”
These sleek, athletic dogs were bred to hunt, retrieve, and keep going all day long. So yes, a quick stroll around the block is cute, but your GSP is wondering when the real workout starts. These dogs are built like canine triathletes: strong, fast, agile, and with enough energy to power a small town.
They’re happiest when they’re stretching those long legs across trails, fields, or your local dog park.
Mentally sharp, they love games, scent work, and turning a walk into a mission.
Bring a ball, a stick, or even a leaf — they’ll chase it like it’s Olympic training.
Walks are boring unless they involve new paths, fresh smells, and the occasional muddy puddle.
According to the American Kennel Club (AKC), the versatile and medium-sized dogs thrive on vigorous exercise, consistent positive training, and plenty of affection. GSP enthusiasts often refer to these elegant, noble companions as the “perfect pointer.”
A bored GSP is a recipe for backyard landscaping projects (read: digging holes), chewed shoes, or spontaneous furniture parkour. A well-exercised GSP? Your loyal, loving, and slightly goofy best friend.
If you’re active, outdoorsy, and ready to turn your daily walks into mini expeditions, the German Shorthaired Pointer will be right there with you — tail wagging, tongue out, and loving every second of it.
5. Border Collie
If there were an Olympic event for walking, running, and never seeming to get tired, the Border Collie would be the undisputed gold medalist. This breed is basically a four-legged energy machine powered by pure smarts and a dash of “I-can-out-think-you-any-day” attitude.
Originally bred to herd sheep with precision and style, Border Collies aren’t just fast—they’re lightning fast, both in body and brain.
They don’t just want a walk; they want a full-on outdoor adventure, preferably involving some mental puzzles and a good dose of zoomies to blow off steam. Petplan noted that if you’re looking for a jogging partner who never complains and always stays motivated, you’ve found your match.
These pups treat walks like the start of a triathlon, not just a casual stroll.
If their body isn’t busy, their minds get bored — and that can lead to some creative mischief.
Walking’s just the warm-up; they’d rather be rounding up the neighbor’s kids or chasing squirrels like they’re part of the flock.
Whether it’s trails, parks, or the backyard, Border Collies want to be involved in every bit of your active life.
With a Border Collie, short walks simply won’t cut it. If your dog is giving you that intense, “Is that ALL?” look halfway through a stroll, it’s time to lace up your shoes and let the marathon begin. Warning: keep snacks handy — this pup’s stamina might just outlast yours!
6. Siberian Husky
If dogs had frequent-flyer miles, the Siberian Husky would be flying first class around the globe by now. Originally bred to pull sleds across snowy tundras for hours, Huskies have endurance in their DNA, and that translates to serious walking (and running) needs in everyday life.
Don’t let those piercing blue eyes and fluffy coat fool you — under that majestic exterior is a cardio machine with four paws and zero chill. These dogs don’t just enjoy exercise — they require it.
Huskies were bred to run all day pulling sleds across frozen wilderness — a 30-minute stroll won’t cut it.
- They’ve got energy to burn and will invent ways to use it if you don’t take the lead (literally).
Huskies thrive in chilly weather, but they still need daily exercise in the heat — just keep it safe and shaded.
A bored Husky? That’s a master escape artist who may just eat your couch, dig to the center of the earth, or stage a solo neighborhood tour while you’re at work.
Think of a Husky as your personal fitness coach — always ready to go, occasionally dramatic, and forever judging your walking pace. Ready for a walking partner that makes marathon runners look lazy? The Husky’s already at the door, leash in mouth.
7. Australian Shepherd
These whip-smart, high-energy furballs aren’t just out for a stroll — they’re looking for a mission. Originally bred to herd livestock across wide-open ranges, Aussies aren’t happy unless they’ve clocked several miles, solved a few puzzles, and supervised at least one butterfly.
This breed isn’t here for lazy Sundays. They wake up every morning with a full calendar of imaginary appointments: chase the wind, herd the squirrels, reorganize the backyard, and outsmart their humans. Daily walks? Absolutely. Long ones. Twice. Preferably with activities in between.
These dogs were bred to do stuff, and a daily walk helps burn off all that boss-level brainpower and energy. Aussies need mental stimulation on walks, too. Change the route, throw in some training games, or teach them a job like “carry the stick.”
A 10-minute stroll won’t cut it — think 1-2 hours of movement per day, or prepare for an Aussie-led furniture rearrangement session.
They want to be with you, doing things, learning tricks, solving problems — not just sniffing lampposts.
So if you’ve got a pair of comfy sneakers and a to-do list your dog can help with, the Australian Shepherd is ready to clock steps, out-think squirrels, and keep you motivated every day. Just remember — they’re the employee of the month every month, and they expect you to keep up.
8. Rhodesian Ridgeback
Meet the Rhodesian Ridgeback — part athlete, part aristocrat, and all heart. Originally bred in southern Africa to hunt lions (yes, lions), these regal canines have stamina for days and a noble attitude that says, “I don’t chase squirrels… unless I’m in the mood.”
Despite their calm and composed vibe indoors, Ridgebacks need a daily workout that stretches their long legs and sharp minds. A quick lap around the block? Pfft. Try a brisk hour-long hike, a good run, or a few solid games of chase-the-tennis-ball-in-a-field-the-size-of-Texas.
They’re not hyper — they’re purposeful. And without enough exercise, that purpose might involve creatively redesigning your living room furniture layout.
These dogs were bred to cover long distances — tracking prey or patrolling large territories.
They seem low-key, but there’s an engine under that smooth coat that needs a daily rev-up.
Long walks give them the structure and stimulation they crave (and keep them from coming up with their own “projects”). They bond deeply with their humans and love a good, purposeful walk — preferably with minimal small talk and maximum admiration.
If you’re the type who likes a strong, silent walking partner who can also out-jog you while looking majestic, the Rhodesian Ridgeback is your dream dog. Just don’t slack on those daily walks — they’ve got lion-level expectations.
9. Bernese Mountain Dog
Bernese Mountain Dogs might look like big fluffy teddy bears, but don’t let their cuddly exterior fool you—they’ve got stamina for days.
These gentle giants were bred to work on farms in the Swiss Alps, hauling carts and herding cattle, so long walks are basically their happy place.
Berners love being outdoors, especially in cooler weather (sunbathing? Not their style). They’re calm, patient, and super affectionate, making them perfect walking buddies who’ll happily match your pace without rushing ahead… unless a squirrel appears, then all bets are off!
Bernese Mountain Dogs are eager to please, which makes them relatively easy to train. While they can be a bit reserved around unfamiliar people, they are generally patient and gentle with children and other pets, making them excellent family companions.
These dogs need time to stretch those powerful legs.
Long walks in the fresh air are their version of a spa day.
Great with kids and a calm companion on family outings.
The ultimate hiking partner who’s as loving as they are loyal.
Bernese Mountain Dogs shed heavily throughout the year, so they require a pet parent who is committed to regular grooming. Anyone considering this breed should also be comfortable with finding fur on furniture, floors, and clothing, as shedding is a constant part of life with a Bernese.
10. Vizsla
Vizslas are like the Energizer bunnies of the dog world—once they get moving, there’s no stopping them. Originally bred in Hungary as hunting dogs, they have boundless energy and a strong desire to be right by your side (seriously, they’re practically Velcro dogs).
These prized athletes, known as Vizslas—named after the Hungarian word for “pointer”—are sleek and graceful dogs. They have a smooth, red-golden coat, typically weigh between 55 and 60 pounds, and stand about 22 to 24 inches tall.
These pups need a workout that keeps up with their athleticism.
If you leave without them, prepare for some serious side-eye.
Expect your hands to be full with fetch balls, sticks, or the occasional shoe.
Vizslas are a high-energy, intelligent breed that thrives on both mental and physical stimulation. They require at least seven hours of exercise per week and enjoy activities like walking, jogging, running, swimming, and agility training.
Because of their active nature, Vizslas are best suited to pet parents who enjoy spending time outdoors and can keep up with their energetic lifestyle.
Plus, they’re super affectionate and love carrying toys or whatever “treasure” they can find in their mouths during your outdoor adventures—so watch out, your socks might mysteriously disappear!
Conclusion
Some of the top breeds that require long walks and a lot of exercise include the Siberian Husky, Alaskan Malamute, German Shepherd, and Border Collie, which require at least an hour of daily activity. These highly energetic, active dogs often enjoy long hikes, outdoor activities, and even love hiking, making them ideal for dog owners with an active lifestyle. Breeds like the West Highland Terrier, Border Terrier, and Dachshund, though small dogs with short legs, also need more exercise and proper training to stay healthy and manage weight.
While large dogs tend to need more space and activity, almost any dog, even Basset Hounds or Pugs, benefits from movement to support their temperament and overall health. These animals, whether puppies, pups, or fully formed, generally tend to thrive with committed owners. On hot days, caution is needed—many breeds don’t do well in hot weather. With little training and consistency, these dogs make great companions, even around other animals, if their energy is channeled through regular walks and rest, of course.
