If you're looking for a hiking buddy, you can't go wrong with a dog. Dogs are natural-born hikers and love spending time outdoors with humans. However, some dogs are better equipped for the rigors of the trail than others.
Here are the 15 best dog breeds for hiking, based on factors like energy level, endurance, and size.
#1: Alaskan Malamute
Height: 23 - 25 in
Weight: 75 - 85 lbs
The Alaskan Malamute is an excellent choice if you're looking for a dog that can really hike. This giant, strong breed was originally bred for sledding, so they have the endurance and strength to keep up on long hikes. They also have a thick coat that protects them from the cold, making them well-suited for hiking in colder climates.
#2: Australian Cattle Dog
Height: 18 - 20 in
Weight: 35 - 50 lbs
The Australian Cattle Dog is a herding breed known for its hard work and endurance. These dogs are no strangers to long days of hiking, and they'll be more than happy to keep up with you on the trail. They're also relatively easy to train, so you won't have any trouble teaching them how to hike with you.
#3: Beagle
Height: 13 - 15 in
Weight: 20 - 30 lbs
Beagles are small but surprisingly tough and can make great hiking companions. They have a lot of energy and will keep up with you on the trail. They can hike up to 10 miles per day, so they're perfect for shorter hikes. Often a leash is necessary as they have a strong hunting instinct.
#4: Bernese Mountain Dog
Height: 25 - 27.5 in
Weight: 80 - 115 lbs
The Bernese Mountain Dog is a large breed originally bred for farm work. They can make great hiking companions. They're strong and can handle long hikes. However, they don't do well in hot weather, so they're best suited for hiking in cooler climates.
#5: Border Collie
Height: 19 - 22 in
Weight: 3- 55 lbs
Life Expectancy: 12 - 15 years
The Border Collie is a herding breed known for its intelligence and athleticism. These dogs are natural-born hikers and will have no trouble keeping up with you on the trail. Their agility and stamina make them well-suited for overcoming obstacles such as boulders and felled trees. They can hike up to 10-12 hours per day.
#6: Cairn Terrier
Height: 9.5 - 10 in
Weight: 13 - 14 lbs
Dorothy's little dog Toto was a Cairn Terrier in the Wizard of Oz, and this breed has been popular ever since. While this breed is small and unsuitable for super long hikes or steep inclines, they can hike several miles daily and make great companions on shorter hikes. They're also relatively easy to train, so you won't have any trouble teaching them how to hike with you.
#7: Carolina Dog
Height: 17.75 - 19.5 in
Weight: 30 - 55 lbs
The Carolina Dog is a relatively new breed that was only recently recognized by the American Kennel Club. These dogs are descendants of wild dogs and look like the Australian Dingo. Hence these dogs are often called the "Carolina dingo" or "American dingo." They make great hiking companions as they are athletic and have a lot of stamina. So even if you wake up early for a hike, he'll want to go again later in the day.
#8: Corgis
Height: 10 - 12 in
Weight: 28 - 30 lbs
Corgis are small but surprisingly tough and can make great hiking companions. Most corgis love hiking and can hike 6 to 8 miles per day at a moderate pace. But the condition is that your Corgi must be fit and not overweight. Corgis are one of the oldest herding breeds, and their original purpose was to help farmers move cattle from one place to another, so if your Corgi tries to herd you while on a hike, it's just in their nature.
#9: Doberman Pinscher
Height: 26 - 28 in
Weight: 75 - 100 lbs
Doberman Pinschers are large, strong dogs that were originally bred for personal protection. They make great hiking companions as they are athletic and have a lot of endurance. They can hike up to 10 miles per day, and they're not afraid of obstacles such as boulders and fallen trees.
#10: German Shepherd
Height: 24 - 26 in
Weight: 65 - 90 lbs
German Shepherds are large, strong dogs originally bred for working on farms. They make great partners for long hikes, as they have a lot of stamina and endurance. These dogs are perfect for hiking on all kinds of treks, be it through forests or mountains. Hiking also provides an excellent exercise for German Shepherds as they are an active breed.
#11: Golden Retriever
Height: 23 - 24 in
Weight: 65 - 75 lbs
Life Expectancy: 10 - 12 years
Golden Retrievers are one of the most popular dog breeds, and for a good reason. They make great family dogs as they're gentle and loving. They're also great hiking companions as they have a lot of energy and enjoy being outdoors. Golden Retrievers can hike long distances, but they're also happy with shorter hikes. They are great for hiking because they sniff rivers from a mile away, acting as your guide on the trail to find water in the summertime.
#12: Great Pyrenees
Height: 27 - 32 in
Weight: 85 - 100 lbs
The Great Pyrenees is a large, fluffy breed that was originally bred for guarding livestock. Their protective and watchful nature makes them great hiking companions while exploring the outdoors. But be careful as their guardian instincts might make them want to protect you from every little thing, including harmless animals such as squirrels.
#13: Labrador Retriever
Height: 22.5 - 24.5 in
Weight: 65 - 80 lbs
Labrador Retrievers are among the most popular dog breeds and make great hiking companions. They have a lot of energy and can maintain pace on long hikes. A healthy labrador under the age of 8 years can hike up to 20 miles per day. But as they age, their pace might slow down a bit. Regardless, they'll still be your best friend on the trail.
#14: Norwegian Buhund
Height: 17 - 18.5 in
Weight: 31 - 40 lbs
The Norwegian Buhund is a herding breed that was originally bred in Norway. These dogs make great hiking companions for someone who loves to go on hikes or long walks. These dogs also make excellent watchdogs as they have a strong territorial instinct. And due to their protective nature, they'll want to stick close to you on the trail.
#15: Rottweiler
Height: 24- 27 in
Weight: 95 - 135 lbs
Rottweilers were originally bred to be working dogs, and they make great hiking companions if properly trained. They have a lot of stamina and can hike long distances, but they need to be trained not to pull on the leash. Rottweilers can also be stubborn, so you must be the alpha on the trail. But if you're looking for a hiking buddy that can work up to a trek of 10 miles per day, a Rottweiler is the perfect breed for you.
About the Author:
Mikail Khan is the founder and editor at BestDogResources.com. Since when he got his first puppy, Mikail has been a lover of dogs. He aims to provide simple and easy informational advice to dog owners.
