Active Dog Breeds
Active breeds are brilliant for households who genuinely want a dog as a daily activity partner. Long walks, off-lead time where safe, dog sports, scent work, and consistent mental engagement are typically part of life with one of these breeds. They are not a good fit for households whose dog-time will be confined to two short walks a day — under-exercised working breeds frequently develop frustration behaviours that owners find hard to live with.
420 breeds in this category
large Labrador Retriever
From Canada
Outgoing, eager, biddable, gentle
large Golden Retriever
From Scotland
Affectionate, trustworthy, eager, sociable
large German Shepherd Dog
From Germany
Confident, loyal, alert, hardworking
large Poodle (Standard)
From France
Bright, eager, athletic, people-focused
small Beagle
From England
Cheerful, curious, amiable, determined
large Rottweiler
From Germany
Confident, watchful, even-tempered, courageous
medium German Shorthaired Pointer
From Germany
Enthusiastic, cooperative, bold, affectionate
small Pembroke Welsh Corgi
From Wales
Alert, loyal, outgoing, spirited
medium Australian Shepherd
From United States
Smart, energetic, devoted, work-driven
large Boxer
From Germany
Playful, loyal, alert, spirited
medium Siberian Husky
From Russia
Friendly, mischievous, independent, gentle
large Doberman Pinscher
From Germany
Alert, fearless, intelligent, energetic
small Shetland Sheepdog (Sheltie)
From Scotland
Bright, responsive, loyal, sensitive
medium Brittany
From France
Happy, agile, attentive, eager
medium English Springer Spaniel
From England
Friendly, eager, obedient, gentle
medium Border Collie
From Scotland
Intense, smart, energetic, responsive
medium Airedale Terrier
From England
Alert, bold, versatile, friendly
medium American Pit Bull Terrier
From United States
Confident, affectionate, driven, tenacious
medium American Staffordshire Terrier
From United States
Loyal, confident, attentive, brave
small Staffordshire Bull Terrier
From England
Clever, courageous, affectionate, bold
medium English Cocker Spaniel
From England
Merry, affectionate, responsive, keen
large English Setter
From England
Gentle, friendly, biddable, lively
large Irish Setter
From Ireland
Enthusiastic, affectionate, energetic, eager
medium Whippet
From England
Gentle, amiable, quick, affectionate
large Afghan Hound
From Afghanistan
Dignified, independent, aloof, sensitive
small Basenji
From Central Africa
Smart, curious, independent, poised
medium Pharaoh Hound
From Malta
Friendly, alert, intelligent, athletic
medium Ibizan Hound
From Spain
Athletic, sensitive, playful, polite
large Alaskan Malamute
From United States
Steady, affectionate, strong-willed, dignified
medium Samoyed
From Russia
Bright, gentle, alert, social
large Rough Collie
From Scotland
Responsive, devoted, gentle, alert
large Smooth Collie
From Scotland
Smart, affectionate, attentive, agile
large Belgian Malinois
From Belgium
Focused, driven, confident, alert
large Belgian Tervuren
From Belgium
Energetic, intelligent, protective, devoted
large Belgian Sheepdog
From Belgium
Watchful, intelligent, loyal, energetic
medium Australian Cattle Dog (Blue Heeler / Queensland Heeler)
From Australia
Alert, tough, loyal, intense
small Shiba Inu
From Japan
Alert, confident, spirited, reserved
small Miniature Pinscher
From Germany
Fearless, curious, lively, bold
small Jack Russell Terrier
From England
Bold, energetic, clever, driven
small Parson Russell Terrier
From England
Alert, lively, confident, intelligent
small Cairn Terrier
From Scotland
Cheerful, alert, independent, tough
small Wire Fox Terrier
From England
Friendly, bold, quick, assertive
medium Kerry Blue Terrier
From Ireland
Alert, determined, affectionate, bold
medium Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier
From Ireland
Cheerful, affectionate, confident, spirited
large Dogo Argentino
From Argentina
Courageous, loyal, athletic, determined
large Rhodesian Ridgeback
From Zimbabwe
Even-tempered, athletic, loyal, independent
medium Vizsla
From Hungary
Affectionate, eager, sensitive, energetic
large Weimaraner
From Germany
Energetic, fearless, headstrong, devoted
large Pointer
From England
Even-tempered, hardworking, affectionate, responsive
large Gordon Setter
From Scotland
Loyal, serious, affectionate, dignified
large English Foxhound
From England
Genial, active, determined, pack-oriented
large American Foxhound
From United States
Sweet, independent, active, good-natured
medium Norwegian Elkhound
From Norway
Loyal, bold, alert, friendly
large Chesapeake Bay Retriever
From United States
Courageous, loyal, tireless, sensible
large Flat-Coated Retriever
From England
Cheerful, outgoing, birdy, eager
large Curly-Coated Retriever
From England
Smart, confident, reserved, hardworking
medium Welsh Springer Spaniel
From Wales
Loyal, affectionate, diligent, steady
medium Boykin Spaniel
From United States
Friendly, eager, energetic, keen
large Spinone Italiano
From Italy
Patient, docile, resilient, affectionate
medium Lagotto Romagnolo
From Italy
Keen, affectionate, quick, diligent
large Irish Water Spaniel
From Ireland
Smart, spirited, humorous, confident
medium Wirehaired Pointing Griffon
From Netherlands
Loyal, eager, sensitive, outdoorsy
medium German Wirehaired Pointer
From Germany
Driven, loyal, confident, energetic
large German Longhaired Pointer
From Germany
Calm, cooperative, affectionate, driven
large Bracco Italiano
From Italy
Affectionate, docile, diligent, sensitive
small Petit Basset Griffon Vendeen
From France
Merry, bold, curious, vocal
medium Grand Basset Griffon Vendeen
From France
Cheerful, determined, outgoing, vocal
medium Wirehaired Vizsla
From Hungary
Affectionate, eager, resilient, gentle
large Old English Sheepdog
From England
Comical, adaptable, protective, gentle
large Bouvier des Flandres
From Belgium
Steady, loyal, fearless, confident
medium Appenzeller Sennenhund
From Switzerland
Energetic, alert, confident, devoted
medium Entlebucher Mountain Dog
From Switzerland
Devoted, determined, alert, energetic
small Pyrenean Shepherd
From France
Intense, smart, devoted, agile
small Swedish Vallhund
From Sweden
Cheerful, watchful, energetic, bold
medium Finnish Lapphund
From Finland
Friendly, alert, docile, eager
small Icelandic Sheepdog
From Iceland
Happy, alert, friendly, energetic
medium Norwegian Buhund
From Norway
Cheerful, alert, energetic, clever
medium Puli
From Hungary
Lively, smart, independent, protective
medium Polish Lowland Sheepdog
From Poland
Bright, confident, watchful, affectionate
medium Portuguese Water Dog
From Portugal
Loyal, spirited, intelligent, biddable
small American Eskimo Dog
From United States
Bright, alert, playful, affectionate
medium Finnish Spitz
From Finland
Lively, independent, vocal, friendly
small Norwegian Lundehund
From Norway
Alert, agile, curious, sensitive
medium Shikoku
From Japan
Loyal, alert, reserved, brave
medium Kishu Ken
From Japan
Calm, loyal, courageous, reserved
medium Kai Ken
From Japan
Alert, agile, faithful, reserved
medium Hokkaido
From Japan
Brave, alert, loyal, hardy
medium Thai Ridgeback
From Thailand
Independent, alert, strong-willed, loyal
large Catahoula Leopard Dog
From United States
Serious, independent, loyal, intense
medium Plott Hound
From United States
Bold, loyal, alert, driven
large Bluetick Coonhound
From United States
Friendly, determined, vocal, devoted
large Redbone Coonhound
From United States
Even-tempered, eager, affectionate, driven
large Treeing Walker Coonhound
From United States
Active, confident, intelligent, sociable
large Black and Tan Coonhound
From United States
Easygoing, brave, sociable, determined
large American English Coonhound
From United States
Sociable, athletic, persistent, good-natured
small Lakeland Terrier
From England
Confident, cheerful, game, independent
small Welsh Terrier
From Wales
Happy, confident, alert, friendly
small Bedlington Terrier
From England
Gentle, spirited, intelligent, affectionate
small Manchester Terrier
From England
Bright, spirited, observant, loyal
small Miniature Bull Terrier
From England
Comical, courageous, stubborn, affectionate
large Bull Terrier
From England
Playful, courageous, stubborn, affectionate
small American Hairless Terrier
From United States
Lively, curious, alert, affectionate
small Rat Terrier
From United States
Alert, playful, intelligent, tenacious
small Schipperke
From Belgium
Alert, confident, curious, mischievous
large Saluki
From Middle East
Reserved, gentle, independent, fast
large Azawakh
From West Africa
Reserved, loyal, vigilant, elegant
large Sloughi
From North Africa
Reserved, noble, gentle, athletic
medium Africanis
From South Africa
Agile, alert, affectionate, resilient
medium Ainu Dog
From Japan
Courageous, alert, loyal, reserved
medium Airedale
From England
Alert, bold, trainable, friendly
large Alano Espanol
From Spain
Courageous, stable, determined, tolerant
large Alano Español
From Spain
Courageous, stable, determined, tolerant
medium Alaskan Husky
From United States
Athletic, focused, social, driven
small Alaskan Klee Kai
From United States
Alert, curious, energetic, reserved with strangers
small Alopekis
From Greece
Calm, companionable, cooperative, loyal
small Alpine Dachsbracke
From Austria
Reliable, determined, sociable, even-tempered
large American Black and Tan Coonhound
From United States
Outgoing, determined, mellow, sociable
large American Blue Gascon Hound
From United States
Steady, determined, amicable, focused
medium American Blue Lacy
From United States
Driven, intelligent, alert, loyal
large North American Indian Dog
From United States
Attentive, loyal, sensitive, adaptable
medium American Leopard Hound
From United States
Energetic, determined, even-tempered, eager to please
medium American Water Spaniel
From United States
Cheerful, eager, intelligent, hardy
large American White Shepherd
From United States
Intelligent, devoted, alert, sensitive
medium Appenzell Mountain Dog
From Switzerland
Lively, bold, loyal, diligent
medium Appenzeller
From Switzerland
Alert, energetic, confident, devoted
large Argentine Dogo
From Argentina
Brave, loyal, determined, steady
large Ariege Pointing Dog
From France
Eager, responsive, calm, friendly
medium Ariegeois
From France
Gentle, energetic, amicable, focused
medium Armant
From Egypt
Vigilant, loyal, hardworking, affectionate with family
medium Australian Cobberdog
From Australia
Gentle, intelligent, sociable, intuitive
medium Australian Kelpie
From Australia
Smart, intense, eager, devoted
medium Australian Stumpy Tail Cattle Dog
From Australia
Energetic, watchful, loyal, determined
medium Austrian Black and Tan Hound
From Austria
Calm, diligent, friendly, reliable
medium Auvergne Pointing Dog
From France
Gentle, willing, calm, affectionate
medium Barbado da Terceira
From Portugal
Loyal, biddable, energetic, affectionate
medium Barbet
From France
Cheerful, willing, gentle, sociable
small Basset Fauve de Bretagne
From France
Merry, determined, friendly, clever
medium Bavarian Mountain Scent Hound
From Germany
Balanced, reserved, devoted, persistent
medium Beagle-Harrier
From France
Friendly, determined, sociable, hardy
medium Bearded Collie
From Scotland
Playful, intelligent, exuberant, hardy
large Beauceron
From France
Confident, loyal, watchful, willing
large Belgian Laekenois
From Belgium
Watchful, intelligent, devoted, wary of strangers
large Belgian Shepherd Groenendael
From Belgium
Energetic, alert, sensitive, loyal
large Belgian Shepherd Malinois
From Belgium
Driven, intelligent, confident, responsive
large Belgian Shepherd Tervuren
From Belgium
Alert, loyal, sensitive, energetic
large Berger Blanc Suisse
From Switzerland
Gentle, intelligent, loyal, sensitive
large Berger Picard
From France
Lively, observant, loyal, humorous
large Billy
From France
Calm, determined, friendly, resilient
medium Black Mouth Cur
From United States
Brave, loyal, energetic, biddable
medium Black Norwegian Elkhound
From Norway
Alert, bold, friendly, independent
giant Black Russian Terrier
From Russia
Confident, calm, loyal, courageous
medium Blue Picardy Spaniel
From France
Balanced, friendly, steady, willing
large Bluetick Coonhound
From United States
Determined, mellow, intelligent, friendly
medium Andalusian Podenco
From Spain
Alert, agile, independent, friendly with pack
medium Anglo-Français de Petite Vénerie
From France
Lively, friendly, determined, pack-oriented
medium Anglo-Français de Petite Vénerie (Alt)
From France
Lively, friendly, determined, pack-oriented
medium Austrian Brandlbracke
From Austria
Calm, diligent, friendly, reliable
medium Balkan Hound
From Balkans
Even-tempered, determined, sociable, resilient
medium Balkan Scenthound
From Balkans
Calm, determined, friendly, pack-oriented
medium Balkanski Gonic
From Balkans
Sociable, driven, balanced, enduring
large Banjara Hound
From India
Aloof, athletic, loyal, resilient
medium Bedouin Shepherd Dog
From Middle East
Vigilant, loyal, resilient, reserved
large Belgian Shepherd Laekenois
From Belgium
Watchful, intelligent, devoted, wary of strangers
small Bench-Legged Feist
From United States
Energetic, keen, loyal, eager
large Berger des Picard
From France
Lively, observant, loyal, humorous
medium Berger des Pyrnes
From France
Intense, clever, spirited, affectionate
medium Berger des Pyrénées
From France
Quick, bright, loyal, energetic
medium Bernese Hound
From Switzerland
Friendly, determined, calm, sociable
medium Black Forest Hound
From Germany
Balanced, diligent, friendly, focused
medium Blue Lacy
From United States
Driven, intelligent, alert, loyal
medium Bohemian Shepherd
From Czech Republic
Friendly, obedient, alert, devoted
small Border Terrier
From United Kingdom
Plucky, affectionate, game, trainable
medium Bosanski Ostrodlaki Gonic (Barak)
From Bosnia
Hardy, friendly, persistent, calm
large Bouvier des Flandres
From Belgium
Confident, loyal, courageous, steady
medium Bouvier des Ardennes
From Belgium
Alert, devoted, tough, lively
medium Braque du Bourbonnais
From France
Affectionate, willing, calm, biddable
large Braque Francais Gascogne
From France
Gentle, cooperative, composed, affectionate
medium Braque Français Pyrenean
From France
Lively, affectionate, responsive, willing
small Brazilian Terrier
From Brazil
Alert, cheerful, smart, spirited
large Briard
From France
Loyal, fearless, obedient, affectionate
medium Briquet Griffon Vendéen
From France
Merry, determined, hardy, social
medium Brittany Spaniel
From France
Bright, eager, affectionate, agile
large Canadian Eskimo Dog
From Canada
Hardy, loyal, alert, driven
large Canadian Inuit Dog
From Canada
Strong, resilient, loyal, energetic
medium Canarian Warren Hound
From Spain
Courageous, enthusiastic, dynamic, noble
large Cane Corso Italiano
From Italy
Loyal, intelligent, protective, athletic
large Mudhol Hound
From India
Reserved, devoted, alert, athletic
small Cardigan Welsh Corgi
From Wales
Loyal, clever, watchful, affectionate
medium Carolina Dog
From United States
Loyal, independent, alert, gentle
medium Catalan Sheepdog
From Spain
Intelligent, loyal, lively, affectionate
medium Cesky Fousek
From Czech Republic
Willing, calm, biddable, affectionate
large Chart Polski
From Poland
Reserved, loyal, courageous, independent
medium Chien dArtois
From France
Calm, friendly, determined, sociable
large Chinook
From United States
Gentle, willing, calm, athletic
medium Chippiparai
From India
Loyal, alert, intelligent, independent
large Hortaya Borzaya
From Russia
Calm, neutral-friendly, independent, enduring
medium Chuandong Hound
From China
Alert, devoted, bold, intense
large Cimarron Uruguayo
From Uruguay
Brave, loyal, confident, determined
medium Cirneco dellEtna
From Italy
Lively, gentle, attentive, independent
medium Cao da Serra de Aires
From Portugal
Alert, intelligent, devoted, lively
medium Cao de Fila de Sao Miguel
From Azores
Protective, confident, intense, loyal
medium Kombai
From India
Brave, loyal, alert, independent
medium Cretan Hound
From Greece
Alert, agile, gentle, independent
medium Croatian Sheepdog
From Croatia
Energetic, biddable, alert, loyal
large Czechoslovakian Vlcak
From Czech Republic
Alert, courageous, intelligent, intense
large Czechoslovakian Wolfdog
From Czech Republic
Loyal, fearless, independent, energetic
medium Cão da Serra de Aires
From Portugal
Alert, intelligent, devoted, lively
medium Cão de Fila de São Miguel
From Azores
Protective, confident, intense, loyal
medium Dalmatian
From Croatia
Outgoing, smart, active, loyal
small Danish-Swedish Farmdog
From Denmark
Friendly, lively, attentive, willing
large Deutsch Drahthaar
From Germany
Hardy, trainable, determined, loyal
medium Deutsche Bracke
From Germany
Friendly, persistent, balanced, social
medium Deutscher Wachtelhund
From Germany
Eager, friendly, energetic, biddable
medium Dingo
From Australia
Alert, resourceful, wary, intelligent
large Doberman
From Germany
Confident, alert, loyal, energetic
medium Drentsche Patrijshond
From Netherlands
Gentle, willing, intelligent, loyal
medium Drentse Patrijshond
From Netherlands
Gentle, willing, intelligent, loyal
small Drever
From Sweden
Even-tempered, determined, friendly, calm
medium Dunker
From Norway
Calm, friendly, diligent, social
large Dutch Shepherd
From Netherlands
Intelligent, loyal, watchful, athletic
large Dutch Shepherd Dog
From Netherlands
Energetic, loyal, responsive, protective
large East European Shepherd
From Russia
Confident, loyal, alert, resilient
large East Siberian Laika
From Russia
Alert, hardy, independent, devoted
medium Elkhound (see Norwegian Elkhound)
From Norway
Bold, friendly, dependable, alert
large English Coonhound
From United States
Outgoing, determined, good-natured, energetic
large English Pointer
From England
Friendly, driven, even-tempered, responsive
medium English Shepherd
From United States
Loyal, intelligent, energetic, biddable
medium English Springer Spaniel
From England
Friendly, eager, attentive, active
medium Entlebucher
From Switzerland
Loyal, determined, alert, smart
medium Entlebucher Sennenhund
From Switzerland
Devoted, agile, vigilant, trainable
large Eskimo Dog
From Arctic
Hardy, alert, social, energetic
medium Estonian Hound
From Estonia
Cheerful, determined, sociable, alert
medium Finnish Hound
From Finland
Calm, persistent, social, even-tempered
medium French Brittany Spaniel
From France
Eager, affectionate, intelligent, agile
medium French Spaniel
From France
Gentle, cooperative, friendly, adaptable
large French Tricolor Hound
From France
Sociable, persistent, calm, obedient
large French White and Black Hound
From France
Calm, obedient, sociable, determined
large French White and Orange Hound
From France
Sociable, steady, willing, enduring
large Galgo Espaol
From Spain
Calm, loyal, sensitive, swift
large Galgo Español
From Spain
Gentle, loyal, quiet, swift
medium Gammel Dansk Hønsehund
From Denmark
Calm, willing, reliable, affectionate
large Gascon Saintongeois
From France
Steady, sociable, determined, gentle
small German Hunt Terrier
From Germany
Tenacious, bold, intelligent, energetic
medium German Pinscher
From Germany
Alert, spirited, intelligent, confident
large German Rough-Haired Pointing Dog
From Germany
Calm, reliable, determined, affectionate
medium Schafpudel
From Germany
Intelligent, willing, gentle, loyal
large Giant Schnauzer
From Germany
Bold, intelligent, protective, driven
large Grand Anglo-Français Blanc et Noir
From France
Steady, sociable, persistent, calm
large Grand Anglo-Français Blanc et Orange
From France
Calm, obedient, social, determined
large Grand Anglo-Français Tricolore
From France
Sociable, persistent, even-tempered, resilient
large Grand Anglo-Français Blanc et Noir
From France
Steady, sociable, persistent, calm
large Grand Anglo-Français Blanc et Orange
From France
Calm, obedient, social, determined
large Grand Anglo-Français Tricolore
From France
Sociable, persistent, even-tempered, resilient
small Grand Basset Griffon Vendéen
From France
Happy, determined, friendly, independent
large Grand Bleu de Gascogne
From France
Calm, determined, sociable, steady
large Grand Gascon Saintongeois
From France
Steady, sociable, persistent, calm
large Grand Griffon Vendéen
From France
Brave, determined, sociable, independent
medium Greek Hound
From Greece
Determined, friendly, steady, focused
large Greek Sheepdog
From Greece
Independent, courageous, decisive, loyal
large Greenland Dog
From Greenland
Hardy, determined, social, energetic
medium Griffon Bleu de Gascogne
From France
Lively, sociable, determined, vocal
medium Griffon Fauve de Bretagne
From France
Brave, eager, friendly, determined
medium Griffon Nivernais
From France
Courageous, independent, hardy, loyal
large Groenendael
From Belgium
Alert, loyal, sensitive, energetic
large Grosser Münsterländer Vorstehhund
From Germany
Trainable, lively, affectionate, keen
large Grosser Münsterländer Vorstehhund (Alt)
From Germany
Trainable, lively, affectionate, keen
medium Halden Hound
From Norway
Calm, friendly, determined, social
medium Hamilton Hound
From Sweden
Friendly, eager, steady, confident
medium Hamiltonstovare
From Sweden
Friendly, eager, steady, confident
medium Hanoverian Hound
From Germany
Serious, loyal, patient, focused
medium Hanoverian Scenthound
From Germany
Loyal, calm, diligent, reserved
medium Harrier
From England
Cheerful, outgoing, determined, pack-oriented
medium Hellenikos Ichnilatis
From Greece
Determined, friendly, steady, focused
large Himalayan Sheepdog
From India
Loyal, resilient, protective, calm
medium Hokkaido Dog
From Japan
Brave, alert, loyal, dignified
large Hovawart
From Germany
Loyal, watchful, intelligent, confident
small Hungarian Puli
From Hungary
Lively, smart, vocal, loyal
large Hungarian Wire-Haired Pointing Dog
From Hungary
Gentle, eager, intelligent, trainable
medium Hygenhund
From Norway
Calm, determined, friendly, reserved
large Irish Red and White Setter
From Ireland
Affectionate, eager, energetic, friendly
medium Irish Terrier
From Ireland
Bold, affectionate, spirited, loyal
medium Istrian Coarse-Haired Hound
From Croatia
Hardy, persistent, friendly, vocal
medium Istrian Shorthaired Hound
From Croatia
Gentle, determined, sociable, focused
large Italian Spinoni
From Italy
Gentle, affectionate, docile, earnest
small Jagdterrier
From Germany
Tenacious, bold, intelligent, energetic
large Jamthund (Swedish Elkhound)
From Sweden
Brave, steady, loyal, alert
medium Jindo
From South Korea
Loyal, brave, alert, independent
medium Kai Dog
From Japan
Brave, alert, devoted, reserved
medium Kanni
From India
Loyal, shy, gentle, agile
medium Karelian Bear Dog
From Finland
Brave, alert, independent, loyal
medium Karelian Bear Laika
From Russia
Courageous, alert, independent, loyal
medium Kelb tal-Fenek
From Malta
Friendly, playful, athletic, sensitive
medium Kelpie
From Australia
Smart, intense, eager, devoted
large Kerry Beagle
From Ireland
Energetic, free-spirited, determined, social
large King Shepherd
From United States
Loyal, confident, intelligent, protective
small Kooikerhondje
From Netherlands
Friendly, attentive, agile, sensitive
medium Koolie
From Australia
Alert, eager, intelligent, loyal
medium Krasky Ovcar
From Slovenia
Loyal, protective, calm, reserved
large Kunming Dog
From China
Loyal, alert, confident, intelligent
large Labrador
From Canada
Outgoing, eager, biddable, gentle
small Lancashire Heeler
From United Kingdom
Alert, smart, cheerful, confident
medium Lapinporokoira
From Finland
Loyal, energetic, willing, attentive
medium Lapponian Herder
From Finland
Energetic, responsive, alert, loyal
large Large Münsterländer
From Germany
Intelligent, eager, affectionate, steady
large Large Münsterländer (Alt)
From Germany
Gentle, eager, attentive, keen
medium Latvian Hound
From Latvia
Determined, friendly, calm, sociable
medium Lithuanian Hound
From Lithuania
Even-tempered, resilient, active, persistent
large Llewellin Setter
From England
Affectionate, eager, athletic, responsive
large Louisiana Catahoula Leopard Dog
From United States
Independent, energetic, loyal, focused
small Lundehund
From Norway
Alert, curious, affectionate, independent
large Magyar Agar
From Hungary
Calm, loyal, reserved, fast
large Mahratta Hound
From India
Reserved, brave, agile, loyal
large Majorca Shepherd Dog
From Spain
Protective, loyal, serious, independent
large Malamute
From Alaska
Friendly, strong-willed, loyal, playful
large Malinois
From Belgium
Driven, intelligent, confident, responsive
small Manchester Terrier (Standard)
From England
Bright, spirited, loyal, keen
medium McNab
From United States
Loyal, intelligent, protective, energetic
small Miniature American Eskimo
From United States
Alert, playful, intelligent, friendly
small Miniature American Shepherd
From United States
Smart, energetic, loyal, biddable
medium Mountain Cur
From United States
Brave, energetic, intelligent, devoted
small Mountain Feist
From United States
Alert, lively, loyal, keen
large Mucuchies
From Venezuela
Affectionate, reserved, noble, intelligent
medium Mudi
From Hungary
Lively, intelligent, alert, loyal
small Nederlandse Kooikerhondje
From Netherlands
Friendly, attentive, agile, affectionate
medium Nenets Herding Laika
From Russia
Lively, agile, friendly, obedient
small New Guinea Singing Dog
From Papua New Guinea
Alert, curious, independent, vocal
large New Zealand Huntaway
From New Zealand
Energetic, vocal, loyal, trainable
small Norrbottenspets
From Sweden
Alert, friendly, agile, lively
small North American Miniature Australian Shepherd
From United States
Energetic, devoted, intelligent, responsive
large Chukotka Sledge Dog
From Russia
Friendly, willing, hardy, enduring
large Northern Inuit Dog
From United Kingdom
Friendly, placid, outgoing, intelligent
medium Norwegian Hound
From Norway
Calm, friendly, determined, social
medium Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever
From Canada
Playful, intelligent, alert, affectionate
medium Old Danish Chicken Dog
From Denmark
Calm, reliable, affectionate, willing
large Old English Sheepdog (Bobtail)
From England
Affectionate, adaptable, intelligent, boisterous
large Otterhound
From England
Friendly, boisterous, determined, independent
large Gull Dong
From Pakistan
Dominant, brave, loyal, intense
medium Gull Terrier
From Pakistan
Courageous, determined, loyal, intense
small Patterdale Terrier
From England
Fearless, tenacious, lively, loyal
medium Patti
From India
Watchful, loyal, brave, adaptable
small Pembroke
From Wales
Affectionate, smart, bold, friendly
small Pembroke Welsh Corgi
From Wales
Outgoing, smart, bold, loyal
large Perdiguero de Burgos
From Spain
Gentle, biddable, steady, affectionate
medium Pachón Navarro
From Spain
Docile, calm, intelligent, sociable
large Perro Cimarron
From Uruguay
Brave, loyal, confident, determined
large Perro de Pastor Mallorquin
From Spain
Protective, loyal, serious, independent
small Perro Ratonero Andaluz
From Spain
Alert, cheerful, agile, affectionate
small Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen
From France
Merry, bold, friendly, curious
medium Petit Bleu de Gascogne
From France
Calm, sociable, determined, gentle
medium Petit Gascon Saintongeois
From France
Steady, sociable, determined, calm
medium Phu Quoc Ridgeback Dog
From Phu Quoc Island, Vietnam
Alert, friendly, agile, independent
medium Picardy Spaniel
From France
Calm, friendly, willing, affectionate
small Plummer Terrier
From United Kingdom
Bright, alert, determined, self-confident
large Podenco Ibicenco
From Spain
Gentle, agile, playful, independent
large Poitevin
From France
Sociable, determined, energetic, courteous
medium Polish Hound
From Poland
Calm, friendly, persistent, social
large Poodle
From France
Bright, eager, athletic, people-focused
medium Porcelaine
From France
Gentle, sociable, determined, calm
medium Portuguese Podengo
From Portugal
Lively, alert, friendly, independent
small Portuguese Podengo Pequeno
From Portugal
Playful, alert, friendly, hardy
medium Portuguese Pointer
From Portugal
Gentle, eager, sociable, steady
medium Portuguese Sheepdog
From Portugal
Alert, intelligent, devoted, lively
medium Posavac Hound
From Croatia
Calm, sociable, persistent, gentle
large Pudelpointer
From Germany
Intelligent, eager, steady, affectionate
small Puli (Pulik)
From Hungary
Lively, smart, loyal, vocal
medium Pumi
From Hungary
Energetic, intelligent, alert, bold
large Rajapalayam
From India
Loyal, courageous, reserved, alert
large Rampur Hound
From India
Loyal, courageous, calm, independent
medium Rastreador Brasileiro
From Brazil
Calm, determined, sociable, obedient
large Redbone Coonhound
From United States
Even-tempered, eager, friendly, determined
small Russell Terrier
From England, Australia
Alert, lively, active, keen
large Russian Pied Hound
From Russia
Friendly, determined, energetic, sociable
large Russian Hound
From Russia
Calm, balanced, persistent, social
small Russian Spaniel
From USSR, Russia
Hard-working, enduring, intelligent, contact-seeking
medium Russo-European Laika
From Russia
Brave, alert, independent, loyal
large Saarlooswolfhond
From Netherlands
Alert, independent, loyal, cautious
medium Sabueso Español
From Spain
Calm, persistent, friendly, vocal
medium Sabueso Español (Alt)
From Spain
Calm, persistent, friendly, vocal
medium Schapendoes
From Netherlands
Cheerful, smart, active, affectionate
medium Schiller Hound
From Sweden
Friendly, energetic, determined, sociable
medium Schnauzer
From Germany
Alert, spirited, intelligent, sturdy
large Scotch Collie
From Scotland
Loyal, intelligent, sensitive, friendly
medium Segugio Italiano
From Italy
Steady, eager, gentle, sociable
medium Serbian Hound
From Serbia
Calm, friendly, diligent, vocal
large Shiloh Shepherd
From United States
Calm, courageous, self-confident, intelligent
medium Silken Windhound
From United States
Gentle, friendly, intelligent, athletic
large Slovensky Hrubosrsty Stavac (Slovakian Wirehaired Pointer / Rough-Haired Pointer)
From Slovakia
Steady, obedient, intelligent, gentle
medium Slovensky Kopov (Slovakian Hound)
From Slovakia
Determined, calm, friendly, diligent
medium Smalandsstovare
From Sweden
Calm, friendly, faithful, keen
medium Small Munsterlander
From Germany
Intelligent, biddable, lively, loving
medium Small Swiss Hound
From Switzerland
Friendly, calm, diligent, social
small Smooth Fox Terrier
From England
Alert, fearless, friendly, quick
medium Spaniel de Pont Audemer
From France
Gentle, willing, calm, friendly
medium Spanish Hound
From Spain
Affectionate, calm, brave, courageous
medium Spanish Water Dog
From Spain
Faithful, obedient, lively, hard working
medium Srpski Gonic
From Serbia
Calm, friendly, diligent, vocal
medium Montenegrin Mountain Hound
From Montenegro
Well balanced, attached to master, docile, trustworthy
medium Srpski Trobojni Gonic
From Serbia
Lively, sociable, persistent, friendly
large St Germain Pointing Dog
From France
Gentle, willing, calm, affectionate
medium Stabyhoun
From Netherlands
Gentle, loyal, intelligent, patient
medium Standard American Eskimo
From United States
Alert, playful, intelligent, friendly
large Standard Poodle
From France
Bright, eager, athletic, people-focused
medium Standard Schnauzer
From Germany
Alert, spirited, intelligent, sturdy
medium Stephens Stock Mountain Cur
From United States
Energetic, brave, loyal, focused
large Stichelhaar
From Germany
Calm, reliable, determined, affectionate
medium Styrian Roughhaired Mountain Hound
From Austria
Hardy, determined, friendly, vocal
medium Swedish Lapphund
From Sweden
Friendly, alert, affectionate, lively
medium Swiss Hound (Swiss Laufhund)
From Switzerland
Sociable, calm, persistent, gentle
large Taigan
From Kyrgyzstan
Independent, loyal, persistent, resilient
medium Taiwan Dog
From Taiwan
Loyal, vigilant, intelligent, bold
medium Thai Bangkaew Dog
From Thailand
Alert, intelligent, loyal, watchful
medium Transylvanian Hound
From Hungary
Good-natured, courageous, enduring, quiet
medium Treeing Tennessee Brindle
From United States
Friendly, courageous, intelligent, eager
medium Tyroler Bracke
From Austria
Steady, passionate, independent, enduring
medium Ukrainian Carpathian Hound
From Ukraine
Balanced, calm, slightly cautious, non-aggressive
medium West Siberian Laika
From Russia
Steady, vigorous, self-confident, alert
small Westphalian Dachsbracke
From Germany
Faithful, friendly, serious, alert
medium Wetterhoun
From Netherlands
Loyal, reserved, determined, calm
large White Swiss Shepherd
From Switzerland
Lively, balanced, friendly, discreet
medium Yakutian Laika
From Russia
Bold, lively, friendly, sociable
How we choose breeds for this list
Energy ≥ 4 and exercise needs ≥ 4.
Frequently asked questions
What counts as "enough" exercise for an active breed? +
Usually at least 60–90 minutes of active daily exercise, plus mental enrichment. Many active breeds happily do more if offered.
Can I just walk an active dog further to compensate? +
Walks help, but most active breeds also need mental work — training, scent games, puzzle feeding, dog sports. Physical exercise alone is rarely sufficient.