Hitting the trails is always better with a furry friend by your side. But some dogs are born for the backcountry. If you’re looking for a hiking companion that can keep pace and thrives in the great outdoors, then certain breeds stand out. From tireless herding dogs to sure-footed mountain breeds, discover nine canine companions built for adventure, who’ll share your love of exploring the wilderness and make every hike an unforgettable journey.
Hiking with your dog is an amazing way to strengthen your bond while enjoying the beauty of the outdoors. However, not every dog breed is cut out for long hikes, and it’s important to choose a dog that can handle the adventure.
Some breeds are naturally more suited for hiking, with the stamina, strength, and energy to keep up on the trails.
In this guide, we’ll explore the best dog breeds for hiking, from those who love an intense workout to others who enjoy a more leisurely stroll. Whether you’re searching for an energetic trail partner or just curious about which dogs make great hiking companions, we’ve got you covered.
So, let’s dive in and find the perfect hiking buddy for your next adventure!
Dog Breeds For Hiking
1. Alaskan Malamute
The Alaskan Malamute is a powerful and striking breed, originally bred for pulling heavy loads in snowy terrains, making them an ideal choice for outdoor adventurers. With their thick fur and sturdy build, these dogs are perfectly suited for long, challenging hikes, especially in colder weather.
Their endurance is exceptional, and their lively spirit and boundless energy make them wonderful hiking companions who are always ready for the next adventure. These affectionate and playful dogs love being outdoors, but it’s important to remember that their larger size means they have higher food and water needs.
Be sure to pack plenty of snacks and water to keep them fueled during your hike. Malamutes are also sensitive to heat, so it’s best to avoid hiking in hot or humid weather. With the right care, an Alaskan Malamute will be a loyal and tireless partner on your outdoor journeys.
2. Weimaraner
The Weimaraner is a versatile hunting dog, originally bred in Germany to work long hours outdoors, making them excellent hiking companions. Loyal, affectionate, and full of energy, these dogs are built for both speed and stamina, excelling on both short hikes and long excursions.
Their friendly and fun-loving nature makes them great company on the trail, while their natural vigilance also makes them good guard dogs. Weimaraners are strong-willed, so they’re best suited for experienced dog owners who can provide the training, socialization, and exercise they need. With proper care, they become incredibly rewarding companions.
They are also highly adaptable to different weather conditions. Renowned for their cold tolerance, Weimaraners thrive in snowy environments but are equally comfortable in hot weather, thanks to their short, smooth coat that helps them stay cool.
3. Rhodesian Ridgeback
Rhodesian Ridgebacks are among the top dog breeds for hiking, thanks to their impressive endurance, athleticism, and adventurous spirit. Known for their stamina, they can easily keep pace on long-distance hikes, and their muscular build, combined with thick paw pads, allows them to navigate rough terrain with ease.
Their ability to handle heat also makes them well-suited for hiking or mountain biking in desert environments, where other dogs might struggle. These loyal and protective dogs are not only great companions but also independent and less likely to rely heavily on their owner’s guidance during hikes.
They require minimal grooming and don’t have much odor, making them low-maintenance hiking partners. However, due to their strong-willed nature and prey drive, they may need experienced owners who can handle their independence and provide firm training.
4. Australian Shepherd
The Australian Shepherd is the perfect blend of intelligence, athleticism, and personality, making them exceptional hiking companions. Originally bred as herding dogs, they still excel in that role today and are also highly skilled in dog sports like agility and obedience. With their boundless energy and friendly nature, Aussies thrive on long, strenuous hikes, always eager to explore and tackle new challenges on the trail.
Australian Shepherds have impressive stamina, developed through their history as hardworking farm dogs. Their high endurance means they can keep going long after most hikers have tired out. Well-conditioned Aussies can even handle hikes up to 15 miles, making them ideal for outdoor enthusiasts who enjoy extended adventures.
However, Orvis states that since they can be wary of strangers, proper socialization is essential before hitting the trails with your Aussie to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience for everyone.
5. Bernese Mountain Dog
Bernese Mountain Dogs are one of the best hiking companions you can have. Their large, sturdy build and natural strength make them well-suited for hikes of all distances and difficulties. Whether you’re trekking through steep terrain or tackling uneven trails, these dogs are built to handle it all.
Originally bred in the Swiss Alps to work in cold conditions and move cattle, their endurance and adaptability shine on challenging hikes, making them reliable partners in any weather. AKC points out that their thick, beautiful coats help keep them warm in cooler climates, making them perfect for mountain hikes or evening treks.
In addition to their physical capabilities, Bernese Mountain Dogs are incredibly loyal and loving. They stay close to their human companions, offering a sense of security on every step of the journey.
6. Siberian Husky
The Siberian Husky is one of the most iconic dogs that resemble wolves, and for good reason. Bred to run long distances pulling sleds, these dogs have incredible endurance and a natural love for adventure. Huskies are outgoing, energetic, and fearless when trying new activities, making them perfect hiking companions.
They’re especially comfortable on snowy or rocky trails, and they won’t hesitate to dive into a dog-friendly lake to cool down after a vigorous trek. With their strong paws designed for trail running and boundless energy, Huskies can cover long distances without tiring. Their thick coat, ideal for cold weather, keeps them warm during winter hikes.
However, in the summer, it’s essential to bring extra water and take breaks, as their dense fur can cause them to overheat in warmer temperatures. With the right precautions, a Husky is a loyal and tireless companion for any hiking adventure.
7. Vizsla
Vizslas make excellent hiking companions due to their high energy levels, athleticism, and love for the outdoors. These natural runners can keep up with even the most demanding hikes, maintaining their pace and enthusiasm over long distances. Whether you’re exploring mountain trails, wooded forests, or open fields, Vizslas are well-suited for a variety of terrains and climates.
Their short coats allow them to adapt comfortably to warm and temperate environments, making them versatile hiking partners. In addition to their physical prowess, Vizslas are affectionate and friendly dogs that love spending time with their owners, often forming deep bonds with their humans. Their keen sense of smell and strong hunting instincts can be a helpful asset when hiking in wildlife-rich areas.
Many Vizslas also enjoy swimming, so crossing streams or lakes along the trail will be a fun adventure for them. However, it’s important to note that Vizslas need consistent training and mental stimulation to prevent boredom or destructive behavior, so be prepared to keep them engaged both on and off the trail.
8. Portuguese Water Dog
The Portuguese Water Dog is an energetic and intelligent breed, making them an ideal hiking companion. Bred to work tirelessly throughout the day, they have impressive stamina and will happily keep up with you on even the longest hikes. However, because of their drive to keep going, it’s important to monitor them for signs of fatigue or overwork.
Their enthusiasm is contagious, and they’ll keep you motivated on the trails with their boundless energy. One of their standout qualities is their love for water. If your hike takes you near a pond, river, or lake, they’ll eagerly jump in for a refreshing swim.
Portuguese Water Dogs are highly trainable, which means they’ll listen well to commands, ensuring a safe and enjoyable hiking experience. Their thick, weather-resistant coat also provides great protection from the elements, making them reliable companions no matter the conditions.
9. Australian Cattle Dog
The Australian Cattle Dog is an exceptional breed, perfect for those with an active lifestyle. If you’re looking for a loyal, obedient, and energetic companion, this dog is a great fit. Originally bred to herd cattle in Australia’s rugged outback, they can handle both hot and cold weather with ease, making them ideal for outdoor adventures in any climate.
Thanks to their high intelligence and strong work ethic, Australian Cattle Dogs excel on both urban hikes and long trail days. They need plenty of exercise to stay mentally and physically healthy, so if you’re ready to meet their exercise needs, they’ll reward you with endless energy and enthusiasm.
Playful and affectionate, WebMD points out that they thrive around people, though their natural herding instinct may make them chase things—but with proper training, this can be managed.
Conclusion
When looking for the best hiking dog, it’s important to choose a breed that is well-suited for the physical demands of the trail. Labrador Retriever, Golden Retriever, and German Shorthaired Pointer dogs are all excellent choices due to their energy, stamina, and love of outdoor adventures. These medium-sized dogs and large dogs are not only strong but also highly trainable, especially with obedience training, making them the perfect hiking partner for both short hikes and long treks.
Hiking dogs thrive on a combination of mental and physical exercise, and many, like the hunting dogs mentioned, excel in different environments, whether it’s a warm forest trail or the cold climates of mountainous regions. While most dogs can enjoy the occasional hike, breeds like these, with their high energy and adaptability, truly shine as the best hiking dogs, capable of handling various terrains and climates with ease.
Hitting the trails with a canine companion elevates any hike. Choosing the right breed, however, is crucial for a safe and enjoyable experience. The nine breeds discussed, from energetic Huskies to sure-footed Bernese Mountain Dogs, offer a variety of traits suited to different hiking styles and terrains. Ultimately, a well-trained and properly conditioned dog of any breed, matched with a responsible owner prepared for the challenges of the trail, can be an excellent hiking buddy. Remember to research breed-specific needs and prioritize your dog’s safety and comfort above all else.