For those who thrive in nature and wish to share their adventures with a loyal canine companion, choosing the right dog breed is essential. Some dogs are happiest with an active lifestyle, relishing the freedom and space only the great outdoors can offer. This guide explores the seven best outdoor dog breeds that prefer to be outside, known for their resilience, energy, and affinity for open spaces. Whether you’re hiking in the mountains or simply enjoying a day in the park, these breeds are perfect for those who embrace the call of the wild.
Some dogs aren’t meant to sit indoors all day—they thrive in wide-open spaces, fresh air, and plenty of adventure. Whether built for herding, hunting, or working in rugged terrain, these best outdoor dog breeds love an active lifestyle and enjoy living outside for extended periods.
From energetic herders to strong livestock guardians, these breeds have the stamina, intelligence, and resilience to handle life outdoors. Many are well-suited for cold weather, while others excel in warm climates with plenty of shade and water.
If you’re an outdoor enthusiast looking for the perfect four-legged companion, these breeds will keep up with your active lifestyle and make every adventure more exciting!
Dog Breeds That Prefer To Be Outside
1. Bearded Collie
The Bearded Collie is a lively, weather-resistant herding dog built for the outdoors. Originally bred in Scotland to work in rugged terrain, they thrive in open spaces where they can run, explore, and herd. Their shaggy double coat protects them from rain and cold, making them well-suited for outdoor adventures.
These dogs are full of energy and need constant activity to stay happy. Their independent yet affectionate nature makes them great for active owners who love hiking or farming life. Bearded Collies are intelligent but can be stubborn, so consistent training and mental challenges keep them engaged. They bond deeply with humans but don’t enjoy being confined for long.
Grooming is a must—without regular brushing, their coat tangles easily. While they get along with kids and other animals, their herding instinct means they may try to round up everything in sight. A life filled with outdoor activities, space to roam, and a job to do keeps them truly happy.
2. Alaskan Malamute
Built for endurance, the Alaskan Malamute thrives in the great outdoors, especially in colder climates. Originally bred to haul heavy sleds in the Arctic, they have a thick, double-layered coat that shields them from freezing temperatures. Their powerful build and love for physical work make them happiest in open spaces with plenty of room to roam.
Malamutes are independent thinkers with a stubborn streak, which can make training a challenge. They need firm guidance and consistent training, but their affectionate nature makes them loyal family dogs. They love human companionship but aren’t suited for apartment living or warm weather.
3. Siberian Husky
The Siberian Husky is one of the most famous outdoor dog breeds, built for cold climates and adventure. This medium-sized dog thrives in wide-open spaces and loves the snowy outdoors. Their thick coat keeps them warm in snow, but they struggle in warm temperatures and extreme heat. While they enjoy outdoor living, they aren’t great guard dogs—they’re too friendly!
As per AKC, these high-energy working dogs need constant exercise and don’t do well in a kennel for long. Their strong prey drive makes them a challenge around small pets, and their strong-willed nature means training takes patience. They’re independent but love company, making them a fun but demanding companion.
4. Vizsla
The Vizsla is an agile, high-energy breed that thrives in the great outdoors. Originally bred in Hungary for hunting, this dog loves nothing more than sprinting across fields, exploring trails, and staying active with its owner. Their sleek, muscular frame gives them incredible speed and endurance, making them perfect for runners or hikers who need a four-legged adventure partner.
Vizslas are extremely affectionate and form deep bonds with their humans. While they love outdoor living, they don’t like being left alone for long and prefer having constant companionship. They’re highly intelligent and eager to please, making them easy to train as long as they get enough mental and physical stimulation.
5. German Shorthaired Pointer
Few dogs embrace the outdoors as naturally as the German Shorthaired Pointer. Built for stamina and speed, this breed was designed for long days in the field, whether hunting, swimming, or running alongside its owner. Their webbed feet make them excellent swimmers, and their strong, athletic build allows them to cover vast distances effortlessly.
This breed is highly intelligent but thrives on structure. Without a purpose—whether it’s retrieving, tracking, or agility training—they can become restless and difficult to manage. Their short coat makes grooming easy, but they don’t handle extreme cold well. They’re affectionate with their families but need an owner who can keep up with their high-energy lifestyle.
6. American Foxhound
The American Foxhound is a born explorer, bred for endurance and an unstoppable drive to follow a scent. Originally developed for hunting in the American colonies, this breed thrives in open landscapes where it can run for miles without restrictions. Unlike some working dogs, Foxhounds don’t just enjoy outdoor life—they require it.
Independent and determined, they can be challenging to train, especially when a scent captures their attention. Their strong prey drive makes them less suited for homes with small pets, but they get along well with people and other dogs.
Without enough exercise, they tend to become vocal, using their signature baying howl to express frustration. While high-maintenance in activity, they are pretty low-maintenance in grooming.
7. Australian Cattle Dog
Australian Cattle Dog is built for outdoor life. Originally bred for herding cattle across harsh Australian terrain, this breed has incredible endurance and problem-solving skills. Their compact, muscular frame makes them agile and powerful, able to handle rough landscapes with ease.
Loyal to their owners but independent in spirit, Cattle Dogs are natural workers who need a job to stay happy. If they’re not herding, they’ll find something else to do—sometimes mischief—so they need plenty of mental and physical challenges. They’re not couch potatoes and aren’t suited for homes without space to roam.
Their short, dense coat is low-maintenance and weather-resistant, making them adaptable to various climates. With the right amount of exercise and stimulation, this breed is a hardworking, devoted companion for outdoor enthusiasts.
8. Border Collie
The Border Collie is widely regarded as one of the most intelligent and hardworking dogs. Originally bred for herding sheep in the rugged countryside, this breed thrives in environments where it has room to run and a purpose to fulfill. Their intense focus and quick learning ability make them excel in agility, obedience, and even search-and-rescue work.
Unlike many other breeds, Border Collies need more than just physical exercise—they crave mental stimulation, as highlighted by Purina. Without it, they can become restless and develop obsessive behaviors. They form strong bonds with their families but are always ready for the next challenge rather than lounging around.
Their medium-length coat provides some protection against the elements, but regular grooming is needed to manage shedding. Best suited for farms, rural areas, or highly active owners, the Border Collie is happiest when working or exploring the outdoors.
9. Bernese Mountain Dog
The Bernese Mountain Dog is one of the best outdoor dog breeds, originally bred in the Swiss Alps to work on farms. This large dog was used as a livestock guardian, draft dog, and all-around farm helper. With their strong build and ability to pull sleds, they excel in physical tasks and enjoy living in spacious environments.
According to Britannica, their thick, coarse fur makes them well-suited for cold weather, but they don’t tolerate heat well. They bond deeply with their families and don’t do well living outdoors alone for extended periods. They’re even-tempered and gentle, making them one of the good dog breeds for families.
Berners need room to roam but also love spending time with their people. They thrive in a backyard setting with access to shelter and regular interaction. Whether working or relaxing, this big dog is a devoted friend that loves to spend time with its loved ones.
Conclusion
Dogs that love the outdoors need space, exercise, and a lifestyle that keeps them active. Whether herding, running, or exploring, these breeds thrive outside but still need care and attention when they come home.
After outdoor adventures, check for dirt, ticks, and debris in their fur, especially for big dogs with coarse fur. Wipe their paws, clean their coat if needed, and ensure they have a cozy spot to rest. Regular grooming helps keep them comfortable and healthy.
With the right care, these best outdoor dog breeds will stay happy, healthy, and always ready for the next adventure!
In conclusion, selecting a suitable outdoor dog breed is vital for ensuring both the happiness and wellbeing of your pet. The seven breeds highlighted, ranging from the adventurous Siberian Husky to the vigilant German Shepherd, thrive in outdoor environments due to their robust nature and inherent traits. These breeds excel in environments that offer ample space for exercise, exploration, and play. However, while these breeds may prefer being outside, they still require proper shelter, care, and companionship to lead fulfilling lives. Ultimately, understanding the unique needs and characteristics of these outdoor-loving breeds will help foster a harmonious relationship between you and your canine companion.