If you want to transform a simple trek into an unforgettable quest with a furry friend, many dogs live for adventures as much as you do.
Some breeds are natural athletes because they have been bred for working under challenging conditions to navigate forests, mountains, and backcountry terrain with enthusiasm.
Whenever you want to go hiking with a dog, its physical traits, behavior, and personality should always be considered.
Active canines make perfect companions with a history of long hours of work. You can explore outdoors with the right breed in a most rewarding way by just preparing and understanding he requirements well.
Fun Fact: In an outdoor activity, dogs tend to drink more water than usual; owners must pack extra hydration for their hiking pals.
Fantastic Dog Breeds That Love Hiking and Backpacking Adventures
1. Alaskan Malamute
Alaskan Malamutes are wonderful companions for hiking, thanks to their great working history, which gave them strong stamina and endurance. Back in the past, this working dog breed was used for pulling carts and sledding over long distances, according to the AKC.
This large dog breed has a waterproof double coat protecting them against harsh conditions of weather especially, especially during cold adventures. Their high energy levels demand serious exercise, including hiking, swimming, and running.
Highly independent and willful Alaskan Malamutes should be trained at their early age for obedience so that they can become your great hiking companions. Overall, this Spitz-type dog breed has a friendly and devoted nature, which makes them a great family dog as well.
2. Siberian Husky
The Siberian Husky hails from Russia, where it was originally bred to work outdoors. These lively and adventurous dogs love cold-weather hikes and make great hiking dogs. Since they were used as sled dogs in the past, today they have great endurance and energy levels.
Husky has a unique temperament, which includes independence, enthusiasm, and cleverness. They are well-suited to an active lifestyle and families living in northern areas. If Huskies are not provided with enough mental and physical exercise, they become destructive dogs.
Being a tireless and strong-headed dog, a Husky needs early training and socialization. An obedient Husky is a difficult challenge, but if you succeed, it can join you as an off-leash hiking partner. These arctic dogs have a thick double coat that sheds regularly and needs regular grooming.
3. Border Collie
One of the most popular dog breeds in terms of smartness and energy levels, the Border Collie is a perfect match for active individuals who want to have hiking adventures with canines. These trainable and intelligent dogs are ideal for navigating tricky hiking trails.
According to PetMD, these adventurous dogs also make great family pets and do well around children. Physical and mental stimulations are crucial for these smart canines; otherwise, they turn their entertaining form into a destructive one.
While not at any outdoor adventures, owners should provide them with regular exercise of at least one to two hours of duration. They are a bit reserved around strangers, making socialization and proper training during puppyhood essential for them.
4. Bernese Mountain Dog
This Alpine native canine is a great hiking companion for people living in cold climates, and also in the mountains. The Bernese Mountain dog was developed for work to pull carts through the Alps, so it’s no surprise that your Bernese climbs rough terrain effortlessly.
Their calm and friendly demeanor makes them great trail partners to experience a peaceful yet adventurous trip. However, this breed is predisposed to some genetic diseases, so it’s important to check them out by a vet before going to have any strenuous activity with them.
These mountain dogs are protective towards their family members, and prove to be proud as well as loyal companions. They are easy to train and get along well with other dogs and kids, according to Britannica. They have thick fur on their bodies and are not capable of tolerating heat.
5. Labrador Retriever
What is more exciting than having a great hiking partner who is also your best furry friend? Labrador Retrievers rank among the friendliest dog breeds, with boundless energy that remains constant even in their senior years.
These affectionate dogs excel in outdoor activities that include both land and water adventures. These athletic dogs have water repelling coat type and ample physical strength, which makes them one of the best dog breeds for long hikes.
Labs are intelligent and energetic dogs who love physical challenges to burn off their energy levels. If Labs are not provided with enough training sessions and dog sports, they become hyperactive dogs. Social and fun-loving Labrador Retrievers excel in running, jumping, hiking, and swimming.
They handle a variety of terrains with ease, enjoy long hours of activity, and stay cheerful every step of the way. With their eager-to-please attitude and dependable energy, a Labrador makes every outdoor adventure brighter and more enjoyable.
6. Rhodesian Ridgeback
The Rhodesian Ridgeback is a fantastic companion for anyone who loves hiking and backpacking. Built for endurance and strength, this breed thrives on long-distance adventures and rugged trails.
They were primarily developed for large game hunting for several hours, enabling them to be good hiking dogs. Rhodesian Ridgebacks are typically high-energy dogs and well-suited to active households only.
These agile dogs with their hardy attitude and strength thrive in wildlife encounters, whether hunting, climbing, or hiking. The independent and aloof nature of the Rhodesian Ridgeback should be properly trained, especially for obedience, starting from an early age.
These big dogs have short and smooth coats, helping them to do well in extreme hot temperatures. Rhodesian Ridgebacks are wonderful family pets and are the happiest dogs when they spend time with their own pack, aka human family.
7. Belgian Malinois
Serious about any task they take on—even a long hike—the Belgian Malinois is a top pick for all kinds of outdoor adventures. Their athletic build and powerful work ethic make them ideal partners for everything from routine trail walks to challenging, rugged terrain.
These dogs turn every outing into a confident, capable journey.
Belgian Malinois love their humans as much as they love their work. Interestingly enough, these dogs require serious physical stimulation daily; long walks are not enough to burn off their energy levels. They absolutely love running, fetch, biking, and herding, even after a serious hike.
Belgian Malinois have a strong prey drive, which is why they need training and socialization. Smart and eager to please, Malinois are highly trainable canines. Therefore, this big dog and high-energy canine is too much for novice pet parents.
Conclusion
While all of these breeds make good hiking companions, owners should take advice from the veterinarians about their health concerns before and after their adventurous trips.
Moreover, these canines are built for different climates, ensuring their adaptability to the environment is essential, which may save you and your pal from future problems.
A well-trained and obedient canine that follows commands and stays with you even if it is off-leash can make your every hike memorable and amazing.
