Big dogs bring big energy, and for those who love exploring the outdoors, they make the perfect adventure partners. Whether it’s hiking through forest trails, running along the beach, or camping under the stars, certain breeds thrive on activity and companionship in the open air.
Choosing a playful, energetic breed means you’ll always have a four-legged friend ready to keep pace with your lifestyle.
Not all large dogs are the same—while some prefer lounging around, others have an endless zest for exploration. Many playful big breeds are known for their stamina, loyalty, and love for games, making them ideal companions for active owners.
Their size may be imposing, but their hearts are often as playful as a puppy’s when given the chance to run and play outside.
If you’re searching for a furry companion who shares your passion for outdoor adventures, this list of playful big dog breeds will help you discover which ones are best suited to your energetic lifestyle.
Playful Big Dog Breeds Enjoying Outdoor Adventures
1. Alaskan Malamute
Also known simply as the Malamute, this powerful Arctic breed was developed by Inuit tribes to haul heavy sleds across vast stretches of tundra.
With a thick double coat, upright ears, and a strong frame, they embody endurance and strength. AKC says the Alaskan Malamute is an affectionate, loyal, and playful yet dignified dog, easily recognized by its well-furred, plumed tail carried over its back.
Why big dogs love the great outdoors? Malamutes were born for it. Their history of pulling sleds means they crave challenging physical activity. Long hikes, snow treks, or pulling weight in harnesses bring out their happiest, most playful side.
These dogs thrive in cold weather and relish winter conditions. In snowy regions, convincing a Malamute to come indoors can be difficult—they’re in their element outside, bounding through drifts and enjoying the chill.
Malamutes are social and affectionate, often happiest when given a job to do alongside their people. However, their dense coat requires frequent brushing to manage shedding, making grooming part of the outdoor adventure lifestyle.
Fun Fact: Despite their size and power, Malamutes were also used as hunting partners, helping Inuit families track seals and even fend off polar bears.
2. Bernese Mountain Dog
Also known as the Berner, this Swiss working breed is admired for its tricolor coat of black, rust, and white, as well as its gentle and affectionate personality.
PetMD says the Bernese Mountain Dog is a big and beautiful breed that originated in Switzerland, where it was used as a farm dog. The breed was brought to the U.S. in the 1920s for farm work, but today these gentle giants are mostly kept as family pets.
How do they balance playfulness with strength? Berners love outdoor fun and thrive on opportunities to explore nature. While they don’t have endless stamina, they enjoy shorter hikes, leisurely walks, and romps in cool climates where their thick coat keeps them comfortable.
Their playful nature often shines through in digging or carrying small packs on outdoor adventures, which not only entertains them but also keeps their muscles engaged. This balance makes them a delightful partner for families who enjoy moderate outdoor activities.
Despite their imposing size, Berners are incredibly affectionate and people-oriented. They tend to stay close to their owners, turning every outdoor adventure into a bonding experience filled with loyalty and joy.
Fun Fact: Bernese Mountain Dogs were bred in Switzerland to pull carts, showcasing their natural combination of strength and usefulness.
3. Great Pyrenees
Also known as the Pyrenean Mountain Dog, this majestic breed is recognized for its thick double coat and snow-white appearance. Originally bred to guard livestock in the Pyrenees mountains, these gentle giants are calm yet powerful companions with a natural affinity for outdoor life.
Hills Pet says the Great Pyrenees was bred to work independently, guarding sheep in mountain valleys, which explains the breed’s strong sense of independence.
Best breeds for hiking and long walks? The Great Pyrenees certainly qualifies. While they don’t need as much rigorous exercise as other large dogs, they excel in leisurely hikes or long strolls through open spaces, especially in cooler climates.
Their sturdy build and endurance make them ideal for exploring trails at a steady pace, but their thick coats mean they’re far better suited to cold environments than hot weather adventures. Owners should be mindful of their sensitivity to heat.
Although independent by nature, they thrive on companionship and enjoy being near their families during outdoor journeys. With their serene temperament, they transform even simple walks into peaceful adventures.
Fun Fact: The Great Pyrenees is so resilient outdoors that it can happily sleep in the rain, thanks to its dense protective coat.
4. Irish Wolfhound
The Irish Wolfhound, often referred to as the “gentle giant,” is not only one of the tallest dog breeds but also among the most graceful. With their imposing stature and coarse, weather-resistant coat, these dogs carry a blend of power and elegance that sets them apart.
Why do active families love these dogs? Their calm, affectionate nature makes them ideal companions for households that enjoy outdoor living. Though they are massive, they thrive when given space to stretch their legs and explore.
These athletic dogs require about two hours of daily exercise, often split between walks and gentle jogs. Families who love hiking or spending time in large open spaces will find them perfect partners, though leash walks are always recommended due to their hunting heritage.
Despite their athletic build, these hunting dogs are surprisingly gentle with children and easygoing with family members. Active owners who combine outdoor time with consistent, positive training will see this breed at its happiest.
Fun Fact: Irish Wolfhounds are recognized as the tallest of all dog breeds, often standing over 30 inches at the shoulder.
5. Newfoundland
Often called the “Newfie,” the Newfoundland is a giant working breed admired for its thick double coat, gentle nature, and impressive strength. Originally bred in Newfoundland and Labrador, these dogs hauled nets for fishermen and became famous for their water rescue skills.
What outdoor sports suit them best? Swimming tops the list. With their webbed feet and powerful frame, Newfies are natural-born swimmers who excel in water activities. From lake splashes to serious rescue drills, they are happiest when near water.
They also enjoy hiking and pulling light carts, making them versatile companions for adventurous families. Their steady temperament ensures they can join in without becoming overly excitable, a bonus when outdoors with children.
Despite their size, Newfoundlands are affectionate and thrive on companionship. They may not run marathons, but their stamina in water and endurance on long walks make them excellent partners for outdoor fun.
Fun Fact: Newfoundlands are so skilled at swimming that they’ve been credited with saving lives during shipwrecks.
6. Anatolian Shepherd
Also known as the Kangal Shepherd Dog, the Anatolian Shepherd is a powerful, ancient breed from Turkey. Originally bred to guard livestock, these muscular dogs are intelligent, resilient, and surprisingly agile for their large size.
Their heritage navigating rocky terrains makes them quick and sure-footed, ideal companions for hikes and countryside explorations. Despite their imposing build, they’re nimble enough to keep pace during long treks.
These loyal dogs thrive on physical challenges and require space to roam, making them happiest in open outdoor settings rather than city apartments. Their stamina allows them to handle cold weather and rugged landscapes, perfect for adventurous owners.
Though naturally protective and sometimes reserved, they remain loyal and attentive partners during family activities. Proper socialization ensures they stay steady and confident, even in unpredictable environments.
Fun Fact: Despite being renowned guardians, Anatolian Shepherds can’t live solely outdoors—they need cozy indoor rest or at least a protective shelter for downtime.
7. Greater Swiss Mountain Dog
Also known as the “Swissy,” the Greater Swiss Mountain Dog hails from the Swiss Alps, where it served as a herder, cart-puller, and vigilant farm watchdog. Its striking tricolor coat—black, red, and white—pairs with a cheerful, sturdy demeanor built for work and play.
Swissies love being included in everything: hiking to the campsite, lounging by the fire, and helping with light draft tasks like carting gear. Their deep, booming bark makes a reliable trailhead alert while their affectionate nature keeps morale high outdoors.
On rugged terrain, their immense strength and sure-footed agility shine, moving confidently over slopes and uneven paths. They’re happiest in cool weather; for summertime treks, plan shaded routes, frequent water breaks, and rest to avoid heat stress.
Compared with higher-octane herders, Swissies are steadier but still need daily activity and a job to do—packing a saddlebag, practicing carting, or short trail pulls. Weekly grooming keeps that dense coat adventure-ready, and their “can-do” work ethic makes them campsite MVPs.
Fact: Swissies were bred to herd, draft, and guard—earning a reputation as dependable, faithful all-around pasture dogs.
Conclusion
Big, energetic breeds bring unmatched excitement to outdoor activities, thriving in environments where they can unleash their boundless energy.
Whether sprinting across hiking trails or splashing in lakes, other dogs like the Siberian Husky, German Shepherd, or Labrador Retriever flourish in settings that allow both mental and physical stimulation.
Some, such as the Rhodesian Ridgeback, prefer warm weather, while others, like Huskies, excel in cold climates. These high-energy dogs embody the joy of movement and companionship, making them ideal partners for those with an active lifestyle.
Breeds like the German Shorthaired Pointer, Border Collie, and Australian Shepherd are naturals at dog sports, blending agility with focus.
Meanwhile, the Australian Cattle Dog and Belgian Malinois display stamina that matches even the busiest of owners, and the Portuguese Water Dog is always ready for aquatic play.
Even smaller but spirited companions like the Jack Russell Terrier show that an affectionate dog with determination can keep pace with larger breeds. For those who love adventure, these dogs aren’t just pets—they’re tireless partners on every journey.
