If you love hiking, the best dogs to hit the trails with will be all too happy to keep you company. These athletic, energetic, and adventurous pups all love spending time in the great outdoors and most will easily manage hikes ranging in length from five to 10 miles.
It's worthwhile fitting your dog with one of the best GPS trackers for pets if you plan on hiking with them on a regular basis. While some breeds are more likely to stay by your side, other breeds (particularly scent hounds with a high prey drive) may be more easily distracted. A tracker will help you locate them quickly and easily.
High-energy dog breeds need lots of mental and physical stimulation to keep them happy and healthy, so they're ideal for active individuals or families who love spending time in the great outdoors.
Whether you're after a smaller dog or a larger one, you'll find our guide to the best dogs to hit the trails with has something for everyone.
32 best dogs to hit the trails with
1. Border Collie
The perfect exercise buddy thanks to their energetic and intelligent nature, border collies make for excellent companions who love to please their human friends. They’re normally very trainable, and due to their inherent need to have a high level of exercise, you can be confident that they won’t get tired too quickly. In fact, the biggest concern is that you might run out of energy before they do – and they might try and round you up.
2. Australian Shepherd
Herding dogs are specifically bred to have lots of energy, and like their cousin, the border collie the Australian Shepherd is no exception. They’re happiest when they have a job to do – whether that’s agility trials, working cattle, or running up and down a trail to make sure you haven’t got lost!
The more walks, the merrier; the Australian Shepherd won’t get bored. To make things easier on the hike, why not play some fetch games on the way? Just as long as you’re careful where you throw it.
3. Jack Russell Terrier
Jack Russells might not seem an obvious choice as one of the best dogs for hiking, but what they lack in size they make up in personality and general joie de vivre.
Possessing energy, drive, and intelligence in abundance, the Jack Russell loves a challenge and will make short work of those climbs. They need to be well-trained before you trust them off the leash, but should you be willing to put in the time, they will serve as a trusty companion.
4. Bernese Mountain Dog
The clue is in the name, admittedly, but the Bernese Mountain dog really is adapted to the outdoors. This majestic breed was bred to pull carts through the Alps, so your weekend hikes should be a piece of cake. A word of warning, though – as they were bred in the colder climate of Bern, Switzerland, they have a thick, double-layered coat to keep them warm and may overheat in hotter temperatures.
While they’re great at scaling mountains and steep hills, the breed has been known to suffer from hip issues, so make sure you consult a vet before attempting anything too strenuous.
5. Siberian Husky
One of the many reasons to love Siberian Huskies is that they are as close to the stereotypical outdoor dog as it’s possible to get, so it will come as no surprise to see them on this list. Whether you’re hiking or running, they’ll be in their element, and happily jog along with you. They’re intelligent, yet very independent, so you’ll need a strict training schedule to avoid them getting bored. But should you do this, they’ll be the best outdoor companion you could possibly ask for. Although, like the Bernese, they’re bred for colder temperatures, they’re incredibly adaptable and can handle warmer climates as long as it’s not too hot.
6. Labrador Retriever
One of the most easy-going dogs around, Labrador Retrievers are friendly and energetic; they’ll win you plenty of pals on those climbs. Best of all, they love exercise, and their webbed feet contribute to being strong swimmers, should you encounter any bodies of water. Labradors are relatively easy to train as well, so you shouldn’t have to worry about leaving them off the leash. They’re generally very food-orientated, so hiking is a great way to help control weight.
7. Airedale Terrier
One of the largest of the terrier breeds, but also one of the most easy-going, their boundless enthusiasm and high reserves of energy make them a decent candidate for the best dogs for hiking.
They’re easy to train and up for an adventure, so will have a great time heading off to all manner of different outdoor environments. You might want to make sure that you trim down their winter coats should you be heading somewhere warmer, though.
8. German Shorthaired Pointer
Originally bred as a hunting dog, the German Shorthaired Pointer makes for an excellent outdoor companion, enjoying lengthy periods of time outdoors in a variety of climates. This is just as well, as they need plenty of exercise.
They’re not the kind of dog that enjoys living in a cramped environment, so they will relish the opportunity to go adventuring with you – in fact, good luck trying to leave them at home.
9. Rhodesian Ridgeback
Another former hunting dog, the Rhodesian Ridgeback has a history of tracking much larger mammals, so your weekend jaunt down the Appalachian trail shouldn’t pose too many challenges. With a Rhodie at your side, you’ll be well-placed to handle any unexpected herds of zebra you may come across on your hike!
Their strength and agility, combined with their independent nature, make them ideal outdoor dogs. Again, they’ll need plenty of training, especially considering their aloof nature, but they’ll more than keep up the pace.
10. Vizsla
Loyal and friendly, the vizsla tends to develop deep bonds with its human masters - they have been nicknamed the ‘velcro dog’ for this very reason – which should serve you well when the two of you head off into the wilderness together. They’re very trainable, and have an excellent nose – useful if you forget the way back to the car!
They like nothing more than having a lot of space to run in, making hikes or trail running something they offer the perfect fit for. They’re patient and friendly, making them ideal company in the presence of other dogs and people.
11. Golden retriever
Given that they need a minimum of two hours of exercise per day, golden retrievers are one of our top picks for dogs that make outstanding hiking buddies. These pups thrive in the great outdoors and are never happier than when they’re hitting the trails, splashing about in creeks and just generally getting their paws dirty. They also love sleeping under the stars, so if you love camping, why not combine your hike with an overnight stay in a national park? When it comes to how to have a fabulous time camping with your dog, a day frolicking about in nature followed by a night relaxing by the fire is all this adventurous pup needs to be happy.
12. Standard poodle
Lively, affectionate, and fun-loving, the high-energy and high-spirited standard poodle is a great pick if you enjoy spending lots of time in nature. They need at least an hour of exercise each day, but the more the better, and they’re one of the dog breeds that are made for swimming, so if you like to cool off after your hike, they’ll be thrilled to join you in the water. Adult standard poodles tend to be able to walk for around 10 miles, so you’ll have no trouble getting your steps in with this dog by your side.
13. Samoyed
One of the best dog breeds for cold climates, if you live in an area where the weather never gets too hot (or you’re someone that likes to hike outside of the summer months), then you’re going to love having the playful and friendly Samoyed by your side. These powerful and tireless dogs can easily manage hikes of 10 miles or more and because they struggle with separation anxiety, they’ll love being given the opportunity to accompany you on one of your adventures. Mischievous dogs who are demanding of love and affection, they’re smart and can be stubborn, so time, patience, and consistency will be necessary when it comes to training them.
14. Dalmatian
Dalmatians are an active breed that does well with owners who have an outdoorsy lifestyle. While they can be aloof with strangers, they adore their preferred humans and make for bright, loyal, and loving companions. Strong dogs with immense stamina, dalmatians can hike for miles and need at least two hours of exercise every day to ensure they stay happy and healthy. Muscular and built to go the distance, they also have a gentle and sensitive side that makes them lovely family members.
15. Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever
A medium-sized gundog bred mainly for hunting, the Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever is an active, curious, and athletic pup who can easily spend all day on the trails. Intelligent, affectionate, and outgoing, their boundless vigor makes them wonderful playmates for children or any adult who thrives on outdoor adventures.
A versatile dog who loves to swim, the Toller (as they’re also known) has an easy-going temperament and tends to get on well with other dogs. However, they have a very high prey drive, so if you have smaller pets in the home, early socialization will be key to ensure you have a well-rounded and balanced Toller who knows how to behave at home.
16. Labradoodle
The labradoodle is a result of crossing the Labrador Retriever with a standard or miniature poodle. Originating in Australia, they are loyal, warm and happy pups and because of their gentle and affectionate nature, they’re one of the best dogs for families with children. Easy going and energetic, they’re very playful and active and are well suited to homes where long walks are a part of each day. The labradoodle is highly motivated by food and they love an opportunity to give their brain a good workout, so stuffing puzzle feeders with treats is sure to be a huge hit.
17. Lurcher
Tall and athletic, lurcher’s love to hunt and explore. Requiring one to two hours of exercise each day, these dogs are a combination of breeds so it can be hard to predict what kind of temperament they’re going to have. However, if you adopt a lurcher there are certain things you can expect. These dogs are endurance champions when it comes to exercise and they tend to be very intelligent.
They have a very strong prey drive, so this is something you’ll want to take into consideration if you have other pets in the home. They’re also highly opportunistic thieves and are both agile and determined, so if you don’t want your favorite snacks being devoured when your back is turned, make sure they’re safely stored away!
18. Miniature poodle
They may be small but don’t let that fool you, what this little dog lacks in size it well and truly makes up for in stamina and personality! Possessing bucket loads of energy and character, the miniature poodle is wickedly smart, so when it comes to teaching your dog new tricks, you’ll find they pick these up at record speed. As well as being ridiculously bright, they also have plenty of brawn and will have no trouble keeping pace with you on those daily walks. Because they’re smaller than a standard poodle, shorter hikes of around one to two hours are best.
19. Beagle
Beagles are sturdy and energetic, most healthy beagles can hike for up to 10 miles. However, because they’re scenthounds with a strong instinct to roam and chase, you’ll want to ensure you keep your beagle on a leash when you’re out and about. Active and energetic, these pups are independent thinkers and they can be stubborn but positive reinforcement in the form of treats always works well with these food-motivated canines. Friendly, gentle, playful, and curious, they tend to get on very well with other pets as long as they’re socialized from a young age.
20. Shetland Sheepdog
There are so many things to love about the Shetland Sheepdog — their tireless energy levels for one. An active working dog who was once a Scottish farmer's best friend, the sheltie, as they’re affectionately known, may be small but they’re incredibly hardy. Considered to be one of the smartest dog breeds, they dominate in agility events and excel at almost all competitive sports. Shelties need a lot of exercise both physically and mentally to prevent them from becoming bored and destructive, so enlisting them as a hiking buddy will be a great way to give their mind and bodies the workout they need.
21. Cockapoo
A cross between the poodle and the cocker spaniel, the cockapoo is the original designer dog who made crossbreeding the fashionable thing it is today. Energetic dogs with a friendly disposition, cockapoos are intelligent, loyal, and easy to train. A happy, fun-loving pup who thrives on attention, the cockapoo loves playing and being active and tends to be able to cope with hikes of up to six miles in length. Generally very adaptable to all sorts of living situations and environments, they get on beautifully with children and other pets, making them wonderful family companions.
22. English Springer Spaniel
Known for their sweet faces and affectionate and cheerful temperament, the English Springer Spaniel is a gun dog who was traditionally used for flushing and retrieving game. As you can imagine, they have a ton of energy and incredible stamina that makes them fantastic exercise partners. Able to run for four miles at a time and walk for many more, the English Springer Spaniel is a highly trainable dog who is always eager to please their humans. They’re also very polite, get on well with children and other animals, and love being part of family life.
23. Cocker spaniel
One of the world's most beloved breeds, the happy and gentle cocker spaniel with its dreamy eyes and impish personality is a lively dog who loves to play. Extremely intelligent, they’ll love getting stuck into one of the best dog puzzle toys to give their brains a good workout, and when they’re done with that, they’ll be eager to hit the trail with you for a walk or run. Always keen to learn and please their owners, the cocker spaniel is kind, sociable, easy to train, and will be at ease in any living situation or environment.
24. Treeing walker coonhound
A brave dog with a courteous nature, the treeing walker coonhound is a medium to large-sized hound breed with remarkable agility and determination. Friendly and outgoing, they are very amiable and form strong bonds with their human companions. Muscular dogs that are bred for endurance, they can easily cope with multiple weekly full or half-day hikes and up to five-mile runs — trust us, this is a dog that’s hard to tire out! They have a strong work ethic and adore any kind of outdoor activity, so they’re a brilliant choice for adventurous families.
25. Australian Cattle dog
If you’re looking for a pup who will happily put in some long days on the trails, the Australian Cattle dog may well be the breed for you. A herding dog that’s used for droving cattle over long distances in the outback, they are one of the best dog breeds for life on the farm and are known for being loyal, intelligent and super tenacious. Strong and agile, this ridiculously smart pup can become bored easily if they’re not given plenty of mental and physical stimulation, so you’ll want to exercise them for at least two hours each day.
26. Alaskan Malamute
Bred for endurance, the Alaskan Malamute is not only suited to full days on the trail, they can also cope with multi-day hikes. However, if you’re not quite as enthusiastic about exercise as they are, ensuring they get at least two hours of physical activity each day will ensure they stay happy and healthy. A dog that thrives in cold climates, the thickness of their coat means you’ll want to avoid hiking with them in the summer months when they’re at serious risk of overheating. Devoted, dignified and very affectionate, the Alaskan Malamute is a pack animal and so it’s very important that you assert yourself as the pack leader early on with firm but loving training.
27. Akita
Akita’s are sensitive to heat, so they’re not ones to hit the trail with in the summer months or in hotter climates, but if you have cool weather where you live during the other three seasons of the year, you’ll find the outdoor-loving Akita makes a marvelous workout buddy. While courageous and loyal, they’re typically not good dogs for families because of their tendency to mouth and their headstrong nature. However, for experienced owners who know how to train them, the Akita will be an incredibly protective and affectionate friend for life.
28. German Shepherd
A brave and steady dog of noble character, the highly intelligent German Shepherd will have no trouble keeping pace with you on the trails. Loyal and dedicated, they make the most devoted of companions and as long as you socialize them well and invest plenty of time in them, they’ll do well in family homes with children and other animals. Because they are very protective by nature, they have a tendency to suffer from separation anxiety when left alone for too long, so they’re best suited to experienced owners who they can spend the bulk of the day with.
29. Anatolian Shepherd
As long as an Anatolian Shepherd is well socialized and leash trained, they'll easily be able to accompany you on hikes of between five and 10 miles. A bold, confident, and independent breed, the Anatolian Shepherd is an imposing flock guardian that hails from the Middle East. They are fiercely loyal guard dogs and because of that, they are not suited to novice owners. However, for those who have the experience and can be firm, patient, and consistent with them, the Anatolian Shepherd will make for a friendly and steady member of adult-only households.
30. Belgian Malinois
A half-day hike will be a piece of cake for the high-energy Belgian Malinois who thrives on being active. A herding dog with a loyal nature and a strong work ethic, these pups are agile, athletic, and highly intelligent. Hard-working and never happier than when they have a job to do, this breed needs a lot of mental and physical stimulation each day to prevent boredom and destructive behaviors from kicking in. Because of their sensitive and intense nature and extremely high energy levels, they are best suited to those who are experienced in dog training and are home a lot to give them the attention they need.
31. Weimaraner
If you love walking and exploring, the Weimaraner is the perfect dog to do it with. Fast, energetic and alert, these fearless dogs possess a loving and obedient nature and yearn to be part of all aspects of family life. Wonderful with children, the Weimaraner is easy to train but they do have a high prey drive, so they may not be the best choice for homes with other small pets around. Socializing a puppy is always important, but especially so if you have a Weimaraner as this high prey drive also means they'll quite happily chase cyclists and joggers!
32. Portuguese Water dog
Able to hike for up to 10 miles once fully grown, the athletic Portuguese Water dog is ideal for households that enjoy swimming, walking, and jogging. Intelligent pups who respond well to obedience training, the Portuguese Water dog has an adventurous spirit, gets on beautifully with children, and is affectionate with all members of the family. Loyal and eager to please, they make faithful and devoted companions.
