Top Ten Dog Breeds That Make Great Hiking Buddies (With Pics)

Going on a hike with your furry partner can be adventurous. If you have not tried it yet, then you must do so. If your dog is in good shape and health, you can try hiking for around 5 to 10 miles. However, you should know whether your dog can accompany you or not.

Why? Because not all dogs are great at hiking. Some canines have a natural build that makes them suitable for long-distance hiking and travel.

These include breeds like Alaskan Malamute, Border Collies, Siberian Huskies, Australian Shepherd, Vizsla, Bernese Mountain Dogs, Rhodesian Ridgeback, Weimaraner, and Labrador Retrievers. They have great endurance and hence make perfect hiking partners.

If you are a hiker and love exploring the terrains, you need an ideal companion to enjoy the journey. Are you looking for dog breeds that would accompany you in your adventurous lifestyle, especially when you go hiking?

Well! You have landed on the right page. The article will help you to know some of the best dog breeds that can make great hiking partners. Here you go.

Best dog breeds for hiking

1. Siberian Husky

Siberian Husky is known to pull sleds and carts long distances in the harsh Russian climate. These powerfully built dogs are high in spirits and always ready for adventure.

This dog breed is gentle and social, enjoy outdoor activities, and makes an excellent choice for those looking for a dog that will go along with them on long hikes.

2. Mountain Cur

If you are an adventure lover, you must choose Mountain Cur. These dogs are perfect hiking partners for their working abilities and passion for exercise. They are super active, especially when it comes to enjoying outdoor activities, and are no strangers to nature. They can make the most adorable pets and hunting companions and are sure to have fun as long as they are with you.

3. Border Collie

The list of active and super energetic breeds of dogs is incomplete without mentioning Border Collie. They are intelligent and energetic. Have excellent work drives and thus are perfect hiking buddies. Hikers and climbers benefit from Border Collie’s smartness and trainability.

As long as this breed is provided ample mental and physical exercises on days when you are not on the trails or peaks, Border Collie is a perfect fit as a hiking partner.

4. Jack Russell Terriers

Jack Russell Terriers‘ breed dog is high on energy and playful and loves sniffing and exploring the surroundings. If you want to enjoy a long hike, make Jack Russell Terrier your hiking buddy, as they will enjoy the trip as much as you do. They have the energy to manage a long and demanding hike.

Research shows that Jack needs 90 minutes of daily exercise to keep them happy and contented. And, if you train them and make them exercise daily, Jack Russell is a fantastic outdoorsy companion.

5. Australian Shepherd

Australian Shepherds have boundless energy and stamina as they are herding dogs that can work all day and easily handle long hikes. As Australian Shepherds are trainable and intelligent, you can train them to hike off-lease without worry and stress.

Like Border Collies, Australian Shepherd needs adequate exercise when you are not hiking. However, you must ensure that this breed is not bored, or else they can get you into a lot of trouble.

6. Labrador Retriever

Labrador makes wonderful hiking companions. These loyal and playful pet dogs have the perfect bodies that can tolerate tough terrain, and their personalities make them well-behaved, especially when you meet other hikers and their dogs. These easy-going dogs love outdoor activities and have enough stamina to accompany you on your favorite hikes.

7. Beagles

Beagles are always happy if tagged with their favorite people, especially when you hit the trail. They have plenty of energy and are legendary for their friendliness. They are well-behaved when encountering other hikers and can aptly chase and scare off small critters crossing your path.

8. Miniature Pinscher

Miniature Pinscher little dog with a great personality, is a spunky companion for a dedicated hiker. They are fearless, fun-loving, adventurous, and perfect for wild exploration. They are athletic and energetic small dogs.

Despite their small stature, Miniature Pinscher requires a lot of exercise and would never want to miss a chance to go on a long hike. Their compact 10-pound body makes it easy for you to pick him up and carry it if he tires out.

9. Bernese Mountain Dogs

Bernese Mountain Dogs thrive on outdoor activities, especially when taken on hikes. They are smart, intelligent, calm, and loyal hiking partners. As they are bred to haul carts and heavy loads, this breed of dog does quite well on hikes.

Their thick coat and large body size are great for those who prefer a cooler temperature while on hikes. However, Bernese Mountain Dogs are prone to developing elbow or hip dysplasia, so keep your hikes short and easy.

10. Vizsla

Vizslas develop a strong and deeper bond with their owners. They need continuous training and enrichment to prevent them from getting bored and destructive. They appreciate having space to run around and make great hiking or trail running partners.

However, they require socialization, grooming, and reinforcement to make them apt hiking buddies. These dogs are patient and loving and get along with children if introduced properly.

Wrapping up!

I hope this article will help you choose the perfect breed of dog that makes great hiking buddies. However, this decision is not breed-specific only. Your choice should also consider factors like age, physical condition, and the weather condition where you will be.

Be cautious with young and old canines, as they will find it difficult to keep up on challenging and long trails. Moreover, proper training is essential.

Prepare your dog beforehand. Choose athletic dog breeds like Labradors and collies that make them suitable for exploring the hills together. Also, avoid hot weather, as canines are susceptible to excessive heat.