A lot of people think it’s only humans who love cross-country running. Well, that’s not true. A lot of animals also love it, especially the dogs. In fact, it is their favorite sport and they love to be involved in it.
Yes, this game requires high endurance and mental stimulation, and some dogs possess both. Be it the trail running at long distances or showcasing muscle alongside the cross-country sprinting, they excel at both.
Three elements that really make a dog suitable for cross-country running are its evolutionary history, anatomical advantages, and energetic temperament. Where some dogs are specifically bred for this purpose, others are trained in that manner.
In this article, we shall talk about 7 dog breeds that love cross-country running.
Dog Breeds That Love Cross-Country Running
1. Labrador Retriever
Labs are high on energy and possess an athletic build. These two qualities make them phenomenal cross-country dogs and some of the best running dogs.
Labrador Retrievers are always up for something! Staying idle is not their thing. In fact, they are the happiest when they have a job to do. Even at home, when they are assigned the task to watch over the house, they will do it with utmost dedication.
Cross-country running requires stamina, and this dog surely has that! With phenomenal endurance and natural love for physical activities, it’s the best trail dog ever.
Labs are also generally intelligent and eager to please, hence training them is easier than training most other dogs. However, if you are doing that yourself, make sure to start slowly and then slowly increase the distance of running.
Also, when you train a young dog, it’s much easier for it to learn when compared to trying various training methods on an older dog.
2. Vizsla
Vizsla is an athletic dog that loves to run.
It is filled with high energy levels and has impressive stamina.
Be it cross-country running or long-distance jogs, this dog will not disappoint you.
They are as good runners as they are hunters. Actually, some part of their fast-running quality comes from them being hunters. They enjoy running, as they are eager to follow and explore the World alongside their owners.
You’ll be amazed at this dog’s endurance for long-distance running.
Caution: Though a Vizsla is phenomenal at running, the American Kennel Club (AKC) suggests that you do not let young dogs run long distances until they reach adulthood at about 18 to 24 months.
3. Weimaraner
Looking for a running partner who won’t give up midway?
Well, go for a Weimaraner.
Originally bred in Germany as a versatile hunting dog, the Weimaraner naturally runs fast and is a great cross-country runner.
However, this dog should only be adopted as a pet if you can commit to its physical needs. It requires a lot of exercise, which includes both long walks and opportunities to run off-leash in guarded areas.
Unlike most dogs that like to run fast, this one keeps a steady pace for extended periods. Hence, it is the best dog breed to have for slow runs for an extended duration.
Weimaraners also get attached to their owners pretty quickly! Hence, they love sports in which they can stay close to their loved ones and still be active.
4. Border Collie
Well, the Border Collie was bred to be a working or moving dog that would mostly be on the farm. What else can you expect from a dog that is out as a herding dog, apart from being a phenomenal runner?
They are filled with energy, and that too lots of it. At home, they need mental stimulation. It is necessary for dog owners to ensure their days are filled with some physical activity that keeps their bodies and minds occupied.
They are driver dogs who love to work hard!
These herding dogs are alert and eager to have a purpose. However, their endurance build-up is gradual. You can’t expect it to have long-running stamina right on the first day you bring it home.
Rather, train it gradually, and it won’t disappoint you.
5. Rhodesian  Ridgeback
Did you know the Rhodesian Ridgeback is such a good runner that it can even keep pace with a horse?
Yes, it is a commendable runner, and Orvis claims that it can keep pace with a horse for around 30 miles or even more!
Rhodesian Ridgebacks are known for their love of running and their ability to keep pace with a horse, making them wonderful cross-country running companions.
These African hunting dogs are high-energy canines with muscular builds and powerful legs. Their strong bodies make them apt for running competitions, even in warm weather. Also, they have a natural love for nature. They enjoy exploring new locations and are pleased to accompany their owners on treks and runs.
However, just like all other dogs, they also need proper training before you take them on long cross-country running sessions.
They thrive in active households! Don’t expect them to be happy where everyone is lazy.
6. Australian  Shepherd
Yet another high-energy dog that loves to run is the Australian Shepherd.
These dogs are intelligent, agile, and have the stamina to be long-distance runners.
Thanks to their agility, they are easily able to navigate different terrains without panting or getting tired. Originally bred as herding dogs, they are naturally inclined to run and stay active.
Nonetheless, if you bring home a young Australian Shepherd, wait until the puppy is fully grown, at least 12-18 months, and then engage it in strenuous activities like jogging or running.
Basic obedience training works best with these dogs and helps manage their herding instincts. It also ensures they stay safe during runs.
This is a friendly dog that is always eager to get outside and exercise. For sure, it will keep you active as well!
7. Dalmatian
Dalmatian is also a phenomenal partner for cross-country running. It is a high-energy breed and loves activities where it can show off its stamina.
Though they are people-oriented dogs, they still love running outdoors and being a part of activities that require them to stay outdoors for long periods.
Caution is required, however, as over-exercising puppies can lead to damage to their joints or cause hip dysplasia. This is why we let them reach their adulthood and then opt for the training.
They thrive with safe off-leash opportunities, and giving them such chances is necessary for their physical and mental stimulation. Daily exercise and steady runs in some outdoor spaces keep this large breed active.
Conclusion
Some breeds truly have the natural endurance and a love for running. They look for opportunities where they can run for many hours, and cross-country running is their absolute favorite.
Breeds like the Australian cattle dog, Siberian husky, German shorthaired pointers, Alaskan malamute, American Staffordshire terrier, Catahoula leopard dog, German shepherd, Pit bull, and Fox terrier are also considered to be agile runners.
Choose a breed that matches your lifestyle and energy level and you’ll always have a happy running buddy by your side.
