Best Canine Companions for Active Humans

There is nothing that enhances the experience of outdoor activities than having a trusty canine companion to accompany you--dogs can even help you keep pace and even challenge your abilities with impressive feats of speed and endurance.

But before you select a wiggly bundle of fur to be your exercise buddy, it is essential to match the dog to the activity. All dogs will do their utmost to keep up with your pace, but selecting an appropriate companion for your activities will avoid over-exerting less active types or under-exercising more active breeds.

Following are some common outdoor activities enjoyed by humans as well as the canine breeds which are best suited to participate in them.

Long Distance Walkers

Most dogs love being taken out for a walk everyday, but if you are looking for a breed that will cover long distances--even a couple of miles--you will find that most breeds are not up to the task. Serious walkers who can go these distance need lots of energy; the following breeds would be ideal:

Labrador Retriever--The labrador is a very active breed, that will need lots of socialization and obedience training when young--but makes an affectionate and playful pal as they grow. Lots of exercise is a must.

Doberman Pinscher--This dog can grow to be a large sleek beauty with boundless energy and a powerful presence--these are also excellent watchdogs and fiercely loyal, perfect for personal defense.

Running and Jogging

For really picking up your heels you will need a companion who can bring speed over distance to the equation--endurance is important here. The following dogs will match your stride with long legs and impress you with their stamina and endurance.

Rhodesian Ridgeback--This proud breed originates in Africa where it was developed to hunt lions--they can be stubborn and difficult if not trained when small. They also run like the wind and never seem to run down.

Saluki--This breed has a reserved disposition and can be a bit skittish--making them a tough breed to train. Salukis are also excellent runners, they should be kept on a leash or their predatory instincts may cause them to run into danger.

Biking and Rollerblading

Finding a dog that understands the concepts of the wheel and momentum may seem like an impossibility, but only until you take a look at the following super-intelligent and super-fast breeds that can go for miles on their long legs and durable constitutions.

Dalmatians--Now why was this attractive breed made the mascot of the fire department? It was its ability to run alongside the carriages carrying the fire brigade--they would even lead horse-drawn carriages, so they won't have problem keeping up with a bicycle.

Plus, they have endless stores of energy and don't do well if they are not provided with regular exercise.

Weimaraner--One of the most intelligent, affectionate and plain out mischievous breeds of dog, the Weimaraner needs a minimum of a 1 hour of exercise a day to minimize their less desirable attributes, such as chewing furniture, climbing the walls, barking at everything, and more.

Source:http://ezinearticles.com/?Best-Canine-Companions-for-Active-Humans&id=9216146