Last time we looked at some smaller and less active dogs. Little guys like pugs who aren't known for their cardio nor breath control. And that's not even including the non-sporting dogs who are quite literally not intended for sport. So while all dogs are active, those last types were not meant to be outside all day.
But now we look at the most active dogs in town! These guys have pretty heft exercise requirements because of their robust cardio abilities. They range from huntsman to sheepherders, and these guys are super fun to watch in action.
Let's get into it.
Herding
Herding dogs are exactly what they sound like. They are your go-to herders! Probably doesn't sound as helpful nowadays, but they still serve an essential role! Cattle can get stubborn and aggressive, and herding dogs like Border Collies can stand firm even when cattle use their big white horns to be threatening or aggressive.
Sometimes herding dogs can even be found trying to herd people. They just love to do what they do best.
If you decide to get a herding dog, make sure your doggy has a lot of room to move around. They are built to roam for miles. And if they start herding you, maybe play along. They're just doing their job!
Sporting Dogs
Don't mistake these dogs as huntsmen only. They are also some of the baddest swimmers in the business.
Sporting dogs are also what their name bears: sporters! They like to sport. They aren't just huntsmen but great swimmers and, in most cases, great runners. They love to get active. While they might not be the number one cross country runners like some herding dogs could be, sporting dogs will show some athletic traits.
Some sporting dogs can swim with the best of them, and Retrievers are just one example of eager swimmers. You're Golden Retriever may not be going after the nearest duck but they were bred for hunting waterfowl. But don't be surprised to see some videos of Golden Retrievers returning happily with a live duck in its mouth as a gift to their distressed owners.
Sporting dogs can help on land too! Spaniels were a popular option for chasing down quail. If you're thinking of going on a bird hunt, grab some sporting dogs to chase them down!
Working
Just check out these guys if you think you're a hard worker. These dogs don't just mean business; they are the business. When working dogs are busy, they can be found out saving lives, lugging materials, or sniffing out dangerous matter. Rottweilers are an example of the versatility within the group. They are great guard dogs but also gentle enough to be guide dogs who lead the blind. Another working dog is the famous Siberian Husky. They're the best sled pushers in town and they can carry items across vast amounts of snow.
Working dogs are persistent and loyal.
Hounds
Some dogs can hunt, but hounds are the hunt. These dogs are bred for finding animals even when they are hard to see. They have fantastic eyesight and killer sniffers. They are second to none in the hunting game, and they will be happy to show you why. You may have seen your dog bolt out of nowhere if you have a hound yourself. Once they find something they want to chase, young hounds are on the case.
And young hounds won't give up on that case either. An untrained and undomesticated hound will chase their prey to the ends of the earth. And different hounds have different primary skillsets. They are categorized into two groups: sight hounds and smell hounds. As you'd imagine by the name, sight hounds can see from far away. Their vision works best in vast open fields, and their eyes are especially good at finding moving prey. Their eyes are uniquely sensitive to movement.
And then there's the scent hound. Basset hounds are an example of this type. You would think with their big ol' ears that they would be primarily sound-based. But those ears actually help them smell because those dangly ears waft up scents to their nose! They are able huntsman in every terrain!
Conclusion
These dogs are the most active around. They'll take a run with you, go hunting, or even stand up to big predators. They'll even help you with your job!
If you want an active companion who'll be ready for any challenge, look at these dog groups and see what you think. You may even like them for their specific niches. Want a good guard dog when you live deep in the woods? The working group Rottweiler is there to serve!
So, hopefully, you understand your future or current furry friend a little better. These classifications are not exact, but they do help you know what your dog was bred for. Some dogs will be more active than others, even within similar breeds. But overall, these dog groups explain their breeds' purpose and what some typical traits are.