High energy dogs can be loving, loyal companions for years – just like other dogs. But if your lifestyle is low key, high energy dogs might not be a great fit. You might be better off considering low energy dogs, rather than bringing home a hyper dog.
Here are a few high energy dog breeds that require a lot of mental stimulation and exercise.
1. Australian Cattle Dog
Australian Cattle Dogs are extremely high energy dogs who have smart and independent personalities. They do require daily exercise, so if you love to run, hike or bike, this dog could be perfect for you. When an Australian Cattle Dog is grown up, they’ll be taking big strides right by your side.
The Australian Cattle Dog is one of many dog breeds that do best when engaging in dog sports and other types of activity. This breed typically excels at exercise activities such as agility drills, training drills, and herding drills.
All of these activities are incredibly rewarding for both the dog and the owner — and a smart dog like the Australian Cattle Dog will crave these types of metal and physical challenges.1
2. Australian Shepherd
Like other dog breeds, Australian Shepherds love people, and they’re extremely loyal to their pet parents. But these are high energy dogs. In fact, they’re among the most energetic dogs. Australian Shepherds were born to herd, so they might revert to trying to herd you if they don’t get the proper stimulation.
As the pet parent of an Australian Shepherd, you want to make sure they get plenty of exercise, mental stimulation, and training.
When it comes to high energy dogs to adopt, Australian Shepherds are right at the top of the list. They have the intelligence to easily master basic obedience training, and they’ll likely enjoy it! But be prepared to fill your pup’s day with lots of activity, including dog sports.2
3. Border Collie
The Border Collie is another of the most active dog breeds. Like other dogs with a lot of energy, Border Collies are extremely intelligent. But that means they need a lot of mental stimulation, otherwise, they might get their energy out by chewing up a shoe or furniture.
So, just make sure they’re frequently and properly engaged and entertained.
It takes a lot of commitment to a regular exercise regimen to have a Border Collie as a pet. But if you have that commitment – especially if you like to exercise yourself – this is one of the dog breeds that might be perfect for you.3 They also make great family dogs.
4. Pembroke Welsh Corgi
Pembroke Welsh Corgis are intelligent and loyal. They’re also very sensitive, independent, and very active. Don’t let their small stature fool you: these dogs are high energy! The reason? They were originally bred to herd sheep! As long as you can provide plenty of play, exercise, and other activity, you’ll never have a more loving companion.
Like many dog breeds known for their intelligence, Pembroke Welsh Corgis are at their best when they have something to do. Stimulation will be key. They need daily exercise for their physical and mental health. Pembroke Welsh Corgis also love dog sports like agility, herding, and tracking drills.4
5. Siberian Husky
Not only is the Siberian Husky one of the most beautiful dog breeds –– it’s also one of the most active dog breeds. Huskies are very friendly as well.
Siberian Huskies are one of the most intelligent dog breeds. In fact, they’re so smart, they may even try to train you or trick you into doing what they want! It’s pretty incredible, but that also means it’s important to train them early on if you can. That way, you can earn their respect and establish yourself as the leader.
Now, Siberian Huskies can sometimes have problems with impulse control. Unlike low energy dogs, Huskies will spring into action whenever they see squirrels or other small animals. They need to run – that’s their preferred form of regular exercise. So, you’ll need a good-sized yard with a fence.
Siberians love humans as well as other dogs. They tend not to like being left alone. When they are, they might exhibit destructive behavior. Basic obedience training is a must.5
What is Destructive Behavior?
Destructive behavior is exactly what it sounds like. Chewing and digging are two common behaviors that bored dogs exhibit. Dogs aren’t trying to upset you or behave badly — generally, dogs exhibit destructive behavior when they’re feeling scared, anxious, or when they simply have so much energy they don’t know what to do with it.
Make sure that your pup has plenty of sturdy toys to chew on, like cotton rope toys and dog-friendly bones. Otherwise, they might end up chewing shoes, furniture, or even their own paws.
Digging is another destructive behavior you might have to deal with — but it’s a natural activity to breeds groups like terriers and some hounds.
One way to stop your dog from digging up your yard is to take them to the woods or dog park and let them dig to their heart’s content. To avoid digging altogether, a lot of exercise and mental stimulation can help.
Mental Stimulation for High Energy Dogs
High-energy dog breeds don’t just have a lot of physical needs — their minds are also extremely active, so they crave mental exercise too.
One great way to do this is through training. Now, it’s important to train any dog you bring into your home — and luckily, high energy dogs are often quite good at it! Plus, teaching them new tricks and commands is one of the best forms of mental stimulation for them.
There are a lot of interactive dog toys that can keep high energy breeds occupied for hours. These come in the form of puzzles, treat toys, snuffle boards, and more.
Exercises for High Energy Dogs
Hiking, running, biking, and even walking are all activities that you should include your high energy dog in.
Other, more canine-oriented activities to keep your pup busy include:
- Agility
- Frisbee
- Tracking
- Carting
- Skijoring
- Flyball
- Dock jumping (or diving)
There are endless options to keep your high energy dog active.
Are High Energy Dog Breeds for You?
High energy dogs are incredible companions, and keeping them happy and healthy means lots of exercise and attention. If you enjoy exercising, being active, and have the time and energy to give a dog lots of attention, a high energy dog may be perfect for you.
But if you tend to lead a more sedentary life, or you’re not home very often, you might want to consider a low-energy dog, or even a senior dog in need of a forever-home. All they will need is some basic obedience training, a little exercise, some treats, and of course, plenty of love!
Learn More:
Strange Dog Behavior: Why is My Dog Licking the Floor?
Why Does My Cat Bring Me Dead Things?
Sources
1.http://www.vetstreet.com/dogs/australian-cattle-dog
2.http://www.vetstreet.com/dogs/australian-shepherd
3.http://www.vetstreet.com/dogs/border-collie
4.https://www.akc.org/dog-breeds/pembroke-welsh-corgi/
5.https://www.akc.org/dog-breeds/siberian-husky/
