A huge number of us decided to welcome new puppies into our homes over the last couple of years – Kennel Club figures show dog ownership soared by nearly 8 percent and post-lockdown demand for four-legged friends remains high.
There are a whopping 221 different breeds of pedigree dog to choose from, alongside numerous crossbreeds, so there’s plenty of thinking to do before you select your family’s latest addition.
Our lifestyle has a huge bearing on which type of dog will work best for us – if you have limited space you might want to look at small dogs, while the more elderly pet owner should place certain breeds at the top of their wishlist.
For all the latest dog news, pictures, advice and information, join our Scotsdog Facebook group here
For many of us, a dog is a great way to make sure we get exercise and certain breeds are perfect for getting you out and about – in fact, if you’re not prepared for several long walks a day some dogs shouldn’t even be a consideration.
Here are the 10 fittest breeds of dog that will never turn down a walk, according to the American Kennel Club.
First developed in the French region of the same name in the 17th century as gun dogs, the Brittany loves all formes of exercise – running hiking and swimming. They are perfect pets for an active family and get on well with children.
Photo: Canva/Getty Images
Bred to run for miles herding sheep, a daily walk around the block won’t be anything like enough exercise for a Border Collie. They are perfect companions for runners, but you’ll have to be pretty fit to come close to tiring them out.
Photo: Canva/Getty Images
Also know as the Belgian Malinois, the Belgian Shepherd is another herding dog that is at their happiest running over fields. They need an absolute minimum of two hours of exercise a day to stay happy and healthy.
Photo: Canva/Getty Images
The ancestors of the Lakeland Terrier spent long days chasing predators away from livestock. Today they are idea for active dog owners who have allergies – they shed very little hair from their soft hypoallergenic coats and need at least two hours of exercise a day.
Photo: Canva/Getty Images
