Running alone has its pros and cons, but adding a training buddy also comes with positives. Sometimes it can be hard to match schedules with a fellow human runner, though, but that’s where a devoted canine friend can come in. If you’re a runner thinking about adopting a dog that can hit the trails with you, here are 10 breeds ready to oblige.

Alaskan Malamute

When you were bred to carry sleds over long distances, you have what it takes to be an endurance runner’s training partner. Alaskan Malamutes are more apt to be cuddly house dogs than tundra traversers these days, but their history and build mean they love a good run. The fact that they love spending time outside with their humans, too, makes running together even better. It’s also a great way to expend their energy, which can be a little overwhelming sometimes. They’re protective, too, so they’ll have your back on a run.

One thing to keep in mind is that running is best for a Malamute when it’s cold, as they weren’t built for hot temperatures. They have a high prey drive and are master escape artists, as well, so it’s best not to let them run free.

Australian Shepherd

With all the skills necessary to herd far flung livestock, Australian shepherds are also up for a run with you. They’re just up for a run in general. The Aussie’s agility and skill at navigating obstacles makes them a good trail running buddy, so you can get far into nature with them by your side. They’re loyal and protective, too, so you can feel a touch safer with them around. It’s essential for this breed to have a job, and making sure you’re ready for a personal record at your next 5k is a job they’re ready to start anytime.

Border Collie

Another ranch dog that doubles as a 5k trainer is the border collie. Like Aussies, they’re happiest with a job and an active one at that, so hitting the trails fits the bill. These athletic pups can handle just about any type of run because they’re agile, adaptable, trainable, and very amped up. A run is just what they need to work off their pent-up energy so they can head home and do their second favorite thing: cuddling with their human.

Boxer

When it comes to cuddling with their humans, especially the little ones, there are few more adept than the boxer. These goofy, happy go lucky Velcro dogs really enjoy spending time with their people, and they also bounce off the walls enough that they have their own particular type of zoomie – the boxer burn. Due to their history as courier and hunting dogs, running to expend that energy is right up their alley.

These dogs do have a high prey drive, though, so keeping them in a harness with a leash is the best way to go.

Dalmatian

Dalmatians are 101% great running buddies. Historically, they were used to run alongside coaches and then fire carriages, so they’ve got the speed and the skill to put in the miles with you. This is true even if you’re a relatively fast runner. These dogs require a ton of exercise, so they may just outpace you. Their protective and adaptable natures make them an asset out in nature, where they’re also more than happy to go for a hike.

Even at walking speeds, a Dalmatian will be content to spend time with you and meet new friends along the way.

Doberman Pinscher

A quick mind and an energetic body make Doberman Pinschers good running club members, too. Dobermans were bred to protect and require the right patient training to get them under control, but once they know what’s expected of them, they’re a great buddy out on the trails, whether you’re hiking, run-walking, or running. They’d prefer the latter, though, as they really enjoy a hard workout.

These loyal pups are also loving family dogs who will snuggle up to even the smallest members of their family after a fun day outside.

German Shorthaired Pointer

If there were a dog decathlon, German shorthaired pointers would dominate. These dogs can handle just about any type of running, whether it’s slow and steady, fast, longer distance, shorter distance, on a street, or on a trail. These agile pups draw from their history as hunting dogs to be the well-rounded athletes they are. Their high mental stimulation needs can be met outdoors, and their brains also mean they learn quickly.

At the end of the day, they’re also gentle people pleasers who want to relax with their families.

Labrador Retriever

Labrador retrievers seem to top the list for just about everything, and running prowess is yet another example.  Because Labs were bred to run and retrieve waterfowl, they enjoy a good run and a good swim. They don’t have the best bicycle riding skills, though, so a triathlon may not be in their wheelhouse. Adventure is in their wheelhouse, though, so they’re ready to go outdoors with you, wherever the day – or run – takes you. Labs are also prone to obesity, so staying active is very important to their health.

When you’re out on your adventures, they’re apt to be amiable to other runners or hikers, too, as they just want to be a friend to everyone, even cats!

Siberian Husky

When you think of Siberian huskies, sled running is likely one of the first things that comes to mind, so it’s not surprising that they’d make good running buddies. These dogs have unmatchable endurance and limitless energy, so if left to their own devices, they’d probably smoke you in a 10k. Of course, that would have to be on a colder day, as running in the heat isn’t so great for these cold climate natives. Another thing to keep in mind is the necessity of keeping them on a leashed harness because they’re very good at escaping.

These vocal jokesters will bring lots of life to your home, as well, as they’re pack dogs who love their families.

Standard Poodle

Poodles are often thought of as fancy, but they are workers at heart. They were bred to be water dogs during the hunt and still relish having a job to do. Keeping you on your training plan is a job they’re more than willing to accept. If they could take a dip afterward, they’d appreciate that, too. Poodles’ endurance and athleticism, coupled with their high energy, make them great for a good running workout. They’re sharp as tacks, too, so they’ll learn pretty quickly how the training is supposed to go.

Their happy, silly personalities may make those hard miles a lot more tolerable, too.