The Best Dog Breeds For Every Lifestyle

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Written By EricAdamson

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Best Dog Breeds for Runners

Runs can be monotonous and lonely endeavors, especially if you’re not one to bump the jams or explore a podcast. These dogs will always be eager to join you out on the trail, the track, or on tough hikes over strenuous terrain.

Dalmations

Dalmations are like CrossFitters: They have a low tolerance for boredom and require moderate daily exercise. They’re great running companions over long-distances, but can be entertained with a few games of fetch in the backyard.

Brittany

The Brittany has a naturally positive and willing attitude, making him a strong running companion for both runs around the block and all over town. His alertness means he won’t stray far from the trail, too. A sharp mind keeps him focused.

Vizsla

The Vizsla is lively and affectionate and has an above-average aptitude for training. Agile and energetic, this breed has much endurance, allowing it to run for miles without tiring. A natural hunter endowed with a strong sense of smell, the fearless and protective Vizsla may go after prey while out running.

Best Dog Breeds for Hunters

Many dog breeds were developed specifically to be hunting companions. It might take more research to find the perfect breed for your grounds, but generally, these dogs will be intelligent and dependable companions when you’re on the hunt.

Brittany

While some breeds specialize in specific game, Brittanys are all-purpose hunting dogs. They’re loyal, quick, and intelligent, making them perfect partners for an upbeat, outdoorsy life.

Boykin Spaniel

Bred by South Carolina hunters, the Boykin Spaniel was literally made for this purpose. Originally developed to go after wild turkeys, the Boykin has a balanced, natural physique that is suited for hunting across all kinds of forested and marshy terrains. The brown coat is camouflouge, too.

Vizsla

Specializing in upland game, rabbits, and waterfowl, the Vizsla is an easy-to-train and driven hunting partner. Away from the grounds, though, this dog is characterized by a gentle and affectionate demeanor.

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Best Dog Breeds for Couch Potatoes

A dog is the best antidote for a quiet night indoors. Whether you’re a regular captain of the T.V. remote or need to crash after long weekend workouts, these guys will be keeping the seat warm for you no matter what.

Mastiff

This guy’s soft, pooling coat makes it a perfect footwarmer for the times you want to kick back and bum around. Mastiffs are large and powerful, but their size betrays a natural assurance and sensitivity that makes them ideal to have around the house.

French Bulldog

These guys can sometimes be a little spazzy, so they won’t say no to daily walks or brief rounds of chase in the backyard. Keep them in the air conditioning (and on your lap) during especially hot days, though—their short noses can make heavy breathing a tough task.

Bulldog

That sagging face says it all: Bulldogs are a notorious low-energy breed. As much as these tubs enjoy a moderate walk on the regular, they’ll be wont to pass up a chance to lounge around their favorite chair, preferably with their chin resting right in your lap.

Best Dog Breeds For Children

Most dogs can be trained to be sweet around kids, but certain breeds have natural dispositions that make them extra loving and friendly. These guys are tolerant, patient, and peerless cuddle-buddies.

Newfoundland

The Newfie’s sweet disposition means they’re great with families, and their intelligence makes them easy to train. Regular walks and coat brushing—a Newfie needs it—will teach your kids some responsibility, too.

Golden Retriever

Golden retrievers are outgoing and easy-to-please. That means they’re easy to train, tolerant with wild-charge kids, and faithful household companions.

Pug

Some people say pugs are such good house pets, they’re practically cats. We don’t want to spark that battle here, but pugs certainly are versatile pets. They can function well in apartments or country homes, alone or with other home-bound animals.

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Best Service Dog Breeds

These breeds are easy to train. They’re obedient and versatile and function well across all types of environments. Generally positive attitudes makes them perfect helpers.

Great Dane

Don’t let the towering size and lanky limbs fool you: Great Danes are terrific mobility dogs. They have unrivaled balance, a smooth gait, and Greek-pillar sturdiness.

Golden Retriever

This is one of the most popular breeds in the United States, a no-brainer considering their exuberance and aptitude for just about anything they’re asked to do. They’re great guide dogs, can work search-and-rescue, and thrive in therapeutic settings, too.

Labrador Retriever

Labs are friendly, versatile dogs. They can be trained in all kinds of service, and their strong noses makes them apt for more disciplined and hardcore settings such as narcotics detection.

Best Dogs To Protect Your Home

Some dogs are a little too trusting, if you catch our drift. It can be securing and assuring to have an animal around that is loyal to your family and alert toward strangers. These breeds are considerate and careful, but still faithful pets.

Doberman Pinscher

Dobermans are alert, loyal, and fearless, but they’re also easy to train and socialize, making them world-class family guardians.

Rottweiler

Rotts are reserved with strangers at first, though with family you’ll be pressed to find a more loyal dog. They’re confident guardians who need proper introductions before opening up to unfamiliar people.

American Staffordshire Bull Terrier

Around the house, the American Staffordshire bull terrier is quiet, stable, and trustworthy. They’re a smart breed with an affectionate sense of humor, and their innate obedience makes them great defenders of your household.

Best Dog Breeds For Water Sports

For people who like to kick it in a pool, swim laps, or play water sports, dogs are pretty much your only option when it comes to having a pet that likes what you like. These guys will dive in with no reservations—just watch for when they shake dry.

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Chesapeake Bay Retriever

A Chessie thrives amid an active lifestyle. As comfortable with icy saltwater chop as they are a backyard family pool, they rely on their excellent noses and strong work ethic to pursue their marks.

Curly Coated Retriever

These are straight-up sporting dogs. They thrive on the hunt as much as they thrive in a game of fetch or in the pool. No matter your swim skill, they’ll give you a run for your money.

Newfoundland

A Newfies’ immensity belies his agility in the water. He’s a workhouse who has true lifesaving instincts and a talent for long-distance swimming. His heavy coat protects him from frigid aquatic temperatures, too.

Best Dog Breeds For People That Work Long Hours

Of course, owning a dog is a huge responsibility, and for guys who work long hours or live in cramped apartments, life circumstances can make the prospect feel impossible. These breeds, though they still need consistent care, are best suited for a loungey life at home.

Shiba Inu

Shibas are easy to house-train for long days in the office, and their serene temperament keeps barking to a minimum for your neighbors. Their high level of independence means they won’t be scratching at the door all day waiting for your return.

Pekingese

The size of this breed makes them natural for apartments, sure, but they’ll still go for a walk around the block or a romp at the park after you come home.

Shih Tzu

These guys just don’t need a lot of exercise. Daily playtime should do them just fine, given their tiny stature and shorter legs. Bred long ago to spend their time in royal palaces, they should have no trouble making themselves at home in your smaller abode.