As an outdoor enthusiast, you know the exhilarating feeling of fresh air on your face and in your lungs as your step into nature. Maybe it’s on a bicycle, maybe on foot, maybe even snowshoes. But getting friends or family to embrace it as you do? Not so certain. Find a buddy who will never turn you down. Dogs who love adventuring are always ready to bound into snow covered fields, pristine lakes or wooded trails with you.
1. Labrador retriever
The incessant energy of Labrador retrievers makes them an ideal pet for outdoor devotees. The playful dogs are excellent swimmers, partially due to their webbed paws, making them a fitting companion on both land and water. Whether you take them along when you are paddleboarding, hiking, running or boating, Labs will bring new meaning to the word energetic.
Labrador retrievers will be happy to tag along anywhere, land or sea.
2. Border collies
If you’ve ever watched border collies in action as herders, you know they can run and run and run. In fact, running just may be their favorite activity. Their stamina means they’ll be a stable pal for long jogs or all day hikes. You’ll probably tire out long before your pet does. Collies also display great intelligence and agility, great traits for a friend out on the road.
3. Vizsla
As bird dogs, vizslas readily bound through the woods. They are active, athletic canines who are light on their feet. These dogs thrive on exercise, so they’re the perfect crony for regular hikers, trail runners and explorers. Vizslas are susceptible to cold, so if you’re adventuring in the winter months, bring a blanket to warm them up before and after your excursion.
4. Australian shepherd
Smart, agile dogs, Australian shepherds make excellent outdoor cohorts. They can easily make their way up steep inclines and navigate around rocky terrain. Obedience is also an important trait when it comes to taking your dog out in public. The Aussie shepherds are quick to follow, and tend to listen well. These canines are athletic, too, making them the perfect running sidekick.
Austrailian shepherds are naturals at climbing, making them excellent companions for hiking during any season.
5. Weimaraner
Tough to say, but ready to play. Weimaraners love to run and are easy to train, both ideal traits for an adventuring chum. Together, you can run circles around each other. They need loads of exercise, so you’ll both stay active. Besides play, Weimaraners are also proficient at driving game, so they’ll be a good partner on your hunting excurisions, as well.
6. Portuguese water dog
If you spend most of your summer at one of Utah’s lakes or reservoirs, your dog should love the water as much as you do. As the name suggests, a Portuguese water dog is that canine. In the beginning, they were used to herd fish into nets, so hanging out in water comes naturally. They learn quickly and tend to stay close to their human, so you can confidently take them on your boat or raft and not worry about them abandoning ship.
7. Siberian husky
As dogs that are bred to pull sleds through the snow, Siberian huskies are built for the outdoors. They’ll keep you company — and entertained — on your trail runs and long hikes, especially in cooler temperatures. If you like heading deep into the wilderness for days at a time, your husky will happily go along. Keep in mind that snow part. Their thick coats are beautiful, but they also make summer weather in Utah difficult to tolerate. Be careful not to overwork your eager pup in extreme temperatures.
Huskies love long hikes in cooler weather.
8. Alaskan malamute
Similar to the husky, the Alaskan malamute loves to play in the snow. Its thick, puffy fur coat will keep your dog perfectly content for all day excursions of cross country skiing or snowshoeing. They are even happy to pack some of your supplies. During summer months, you’ll need to be cautious to keep them from overheating. Their high energy pairs well with long hikes in the mountains.
9. Rhodesian Ridgeback
While some dogs are uncomfortable once the temperature rises, the Rhodesian Ridgeback seems to take it all in stride — within reason, of course. If you’re sweltering, your pet is, too. But the Ridgeback will keep up with you on summer hikes. And if you run into any lions, no problem. These muscly beasts were originally bred to hunt the big cats in South Africa.
10. Bernese mountain dog
Despite the rugged name, the Bernese mountain dog isn’t an endurance climber, especially when it’s hot outside. But they do enjoy short hikes and long, slow walks. If properly trained, they’ll stay near your side — although many trails do require pets to stay on a leash. These good natured dogs are relatively docile, which makes them an ideal companion for popular trails. When winter comes, head outside; their thick coats will keep them cozier than yours.
11. German shepherds
German shepherds can be trusted outdoor partners. While they may work hard, they are also playful. Both intelligent and athletic, they are happy to explore right along with you — and may keep you on your toes. If trained well, you can feel comfortable letting them run off leash on trails where permitted, as they will quickly obey when you call.
12. German shorthaired pointer
A German shorthair pointer is independent, but it's also an obedient dog. In areas where you can let your dog off leash, your pointer will thrive. They aren’t prone to running away, though. Indeed, if you are walking in the woods and you lose sight of your pup, there’s no need to worry. They’ll always come back.
13. Beagle
Beagles are an energetic, adventurous breed. They’re savvy hunting dogs, but they love to play, too. Take them for long walks in the wilderness, where they can explore and get the regular exercise they need. Oh, and you, too. And in case you wondered, yes, they can be pretty cool.
Playful and savvy, beagles will love to explore with you.
14. Belgian Malinois
A larger breed, Belgian Malinois love to get out and play. They are up for any kind of exploit, whenever you are. They can get bored easily, so the more active you are, the happier you’ll both be. Mals are protective and faithful dogs, thanks to their herding instinct. You’ll develop a strong bond as you find new places to visit.
15. Great Pyrenees
If you’re more of a low-key adventurer, this big ball of white fluff is the slow roamer you need. The coats of Great Pyrenees are thick, making them more compatible with Utah’s late fall and winter weather. Bear-like Great Pyrenees love a relaxed pace, so you won’t need to worry about them taking off to chase a squirrel. They prefer playing in large areas, such as meadows, especially in cooler weather.
16. Mixed breed
Don’t discount the merits of a mixed breed as a companion. While some purebred dogs seem made for outdoor sport, there are plenty of mixed breeds that enjoy bounding in fields just as much. Many are intelligent, adventurous and playful. One advantage of a mixed breed is the lower chance of genetic health issues. That fact could ultimately mean a stronger disposition — and more time playing together.
Be careful out there
Nearly all dogs enjoy spending time outside, whether it's on regular walks, playing catch, running in the park or climbing hills. Keep in mind that despite their enthusiasm, they need to be reminded to stay hydrated and take breaks from the heat. If you need a drink or some time in the shade, your pooch does, too.
If you’re traversing rocky terrain or hot pavement, keep an eye on your pooch’s paws. They can get damaged just as your tender toes do. Also, when you’re out and about, be wary of poisonous plants and precarious situations.
Don’t allow them to go near any wildlife, either, regardless of how harmless that bunny may appear. After visiting wooded areas, thoroughly check your pup for ticks, burrs and any other issues that could make them uncomfortable or unhealthy.
You may find yourself getting outdoors even more when you have an always ready friend to explore with you. Find your adventuring buddy on KSL Classifieds.
