If you love to adventure outdoors and want a dog that can keep up, you’ll have to take that into consideration when choosing a dog. Some dog breeds love to play outside and have a seemingly endless amount of energy while others are more low-key and prefer to hang out inside. If you’re someone who loves the outdoors and staying active, here are a few sturdy dog breeds for outdoor adventures:

1. Afghan Hound

Although they tend to look elegant and refined, Afghan Hounds are incredibly athletic. They are skilled sighthounds that were originally bred to hunt across and traverse rough mountain terrain. Not only does this mean that they have endurance and stamina, but it also means that they are athletic and are a good fit for outdoor adventures once they are finished growing.

One of the facts about Afghan Hounds is that they were developed to have large paw pads that would help act like shock absorbers as they ran across rugged terrain. These larger-than-expected paw pads also help them gain traction. This, in addition to their light, tall structure, also makes them very fast. In a sprint, these dogs are only a little slower than Greyhounds and Thoroughbred racehorses!

2. Alaskan Malamute

These hearty dogs hail from a tough winter climate in Alaska. One of the facts about Alaskan Malamutes is that they were bred to pull sleds across miles of frozen tundra. This means that these dogs are built for hard adventures.

They thrive in cold weather, too. Alaskan Malamutes don’t do well in warmer climates, so keep that in mind as you decide on a dog. This breed loves snow! They are even known as one of the dog breeds that love winter.

If you live in a snowy climate, good luck getting your Malamute to come indoors. These dogs need plenty of hard exercise, so they’re the perfect companion if you too love winter adventures.

3. Anatolian Shepherd

Anatolian Shepherds hail from what is modern-day Turkey and have been hard-working dogs for thousands of years. Bred to protect livestock, Anatolian Shepherds are extremely intelligent and sturdy.

One of the facts about Anatolian Shepherds is that, despite their size, they are nimble and quick due to navigating the rocky terrain of their heritage. They are quite muscular and strong, and almost always up for adventuring with their owner or family!

4. Australian Cattle Dog

Bred to herd cattle in the Australian outback, these dogs are tough. One of the facts about Blue Heelers is that they have wild Dingoes in their ancestry.

With Dingo blood, there’s nothing these dogs are afraid of. Not only are they one of the best dog breeds for farms, but they are also one of the sturdy dog breeds for outdoor adventures.

Australian Cattle Dogs are whip-smart, feisty, and brawny. Australian Cattle Dogs will accompany you on the toughest of adventures!

5. Australian Shepherd

Australian Shepherds may be smaller dogs, but they are one of the sturdy dog breeds for outdoor adventures. They are high-energy dogs that flourish when running around and playing outside.

On top of that, they are athletic and versatile as well, which makes them a good fit for a lot of different activities. They’re even one of the dog breeds that make good running partners. Aussies also tend to be obedient dogs, so they’ll stick close to you and listen while out and about as long as you have trained them well.

6. Beagle

Beagles are sweet and kind dogs, but are also adventurous! They are excellent hunting dogs and, despite their smaller frame, they are sturdy and strong.

Some facts about Beagles are that they are fun-loving, and as hunting dogs, they’re also intelligent. They love to be with their owner and are excellent companion dogs. Beagles love playtime and need plenty of exercise. They will be an excellent dog to take on adventures!

7. Belgian Malinois

The Belgian Malinois is a hard worker and adventurer. They are confident and ready for any task at hand. They are a larger breed, but are quite elegant. Belgian Malinois require a lot of exercise, so they’re perfect if you lead a very active lifestyle.

Some facts about Belgian Malinois are that they thrive on activity and develop deep bonds with their owner. This breed will enjoy accompanying you on any adventure you may take!

8. Belgian Tervuren

Belgian Tervurens are beautifully elegant dogs. But, don’t let their elegant looks fool you! This breed is incredibly hard-working. Their muscular frame is sturdy and strong. Belgian Tervurens like to master any task given to them and are very intelligent!

One of the facts about Belgian Tervuren is that they have a mischievous quality to their personality and like to try and outsmart their owners. Belgian Tervurens like to be challenged and need plenty of playtime, so outdoor adventures will be perfect for you two to do activities together.

9. Bernese Mountain Dog

While Bernese Mountain Dogs don’t have much endurance, especially in warmer weather, but they do require activity. This sturdy breed is a great dog to take on shorter hikes or slower, longer walks. If they’re well-trained, they can even go off-leash. Bernese Mountain Dogs like to stick close to their owners.

They are a great dog for cold climates as their thick coats will keep them warm and happy. One of the facts about Bernese Mountain Dogs is that they were bred to help out on farms and to pull carts. This means they will enjoy carrying a small pack while on your outdoor adventures!

10. Border Collie

Border Collies possess incredible stamina and athleticism. Border Collies, in particular, are known for their intelligence, agility, and endurance. These are some facts about Border Collies that make them a great companion for the outdoors as they love to run and love to be active with you.

Although running tends to be one of their favorite activities, Border Collies may also enjoy hiking with you, swimming, taking trips to the dog park, and more. They also tend to enjoy chasing balls, frisbees, or toys, so you can also teach your dog to play frisbee.

11. Carolina Dog

The Carolina Dog is a primitive dog breed that traveled across the Bering land bridge thousands of years ago with Paleo-Indians. One of the facts about Carolina Dogs is that, although they can still be found in the wild throughout the United States, they are a domesticated breed.

Highly intelligent and athletic, these dogs tend to excel at dog sports and a variety of activities. They have a strong pack mentality and bond closely with their families, so they love doing things together. These traits make them a great fit for a wide variety of outdoor adventures and activities when puppies finish growing.

12. German Shepherd

German Shepherds are incredibly intelligent and athletic dogs. As long as they have been properly socialized and trained, they can be fantastic outdoor companions on-leash or off-leash. Because of their versatility, they are working dogs in a variety of jobs and are a good fit for a wide variety of outdoor adventures.

13. German Shorthaired Pointer

German Shorthaired Pointers are bird dogs that were bred to hunt and retrieve pheasant, quail, and other quarries. This means their strength, stamina, and athleticism are all through the roof. On top of it, these dogs also tend to be reliable and highly obedient. All of this makes them one of the sturdy dog breeds for outdoor adventures.

14. Great Pyrenees

The Great Pyrenees breed is a breed that turns heads. With big fluffy white coats, these dogs are natural livestock guardians. They perform well in cold weather climates, thanks to their double-layer coat.

A natural roamer, these dogs do best in areas where they can roam safely. They’ll be great companions if you have a lot of land to explore. They don’t require that much exercise, so they’re great if you prefer a slower outdoor experience.

15. Jack Russell Terrier

Jack Russell Terriers are small dogs, but they come with a lot of energy. Originally bred as fox hunting dogs, Jack Russell Terriers are quick learners and work tirelessly.

They are bold and are quite fearless. Jack Russell Terriers are quick, with long legs in comparison to their small bodies that help them run effortlessly. Their personality thrives on adventure so they will be the perfect companion for your outdoor activities!

16. Labrador Retriever

The Labrador Retriever is an iconic dog breed that is consistently popular throughout the United States and beyond. Labs may be happy to spend time cuddling with you, but they are also exceedingly athletic, energetic, and playful.

You’re likely to run out of energy before your Labrador does, especially when they are younger! In addition to more rugged activities like hiking, Labs are known for being one of the dog breeds that love water. So, they’ll likely love to go swimming with you or hang out on a boat with you. You might even be able to take your dog paddling with you too!

17. Portuguese Water Dogs

Bred to be on the sea, Portuguese Water Dogs will love any adventure involving water. Traditionally, this breed helped to herd fish into nets for the fishermen. They could even search for lost supplies or be messengers from ship to ship.

Portuguese Water Dogs are quick to learn and very smart. Complex training comes easily to them. They like to be within sight of their owners so off-leash activities work well with this breed. Take your dog paddling with you or out on a canoe or on a rafting trip! They will enjoy it and you’ll have a smart companion with you.

18. Rhodesian Ridgeback

If you’re looking for a dog that prefers a warmer climate, a Rhodesian Ridgeback might be a good option for you. These dogs come from the African savannahs, so you know they can handle the heat!

Some facts about Rhodesian Ridgebacks are that they are very active and have a high prey drive. They’ll need a lot of exercise and activity. Plenty of long walks and a safe place to run freely will keep them happy and healthy.

19. Siberian Husky

Since the Siberian Husky originated in Russia, these energetic dogs are up for any cold-weather activity! They love hiking and will happily accompany you on any winter hike you embark on. It’s important for this breed to be exercised well to expend all their energy and to keep bad behaviors at bay.

Siberian Huskies can make great running or cycling partners once they’re trained. Light on their feet, Siberian Huskies have won most of the Alaska racing titles, and can tirelessly run for miles. This is why they are one of the dog breeds that make great running partners once they’re finished growing.

While they are considered one of the most independent dog breeds, they do thrive on human and canine interaction. If you’re someone who prefers the colder weather and wants a faithful companion in your outdoor adventures, Siberian Huskies are a great pick!

20. Vizsla

If you’re looking for an easy-to-train dog that loves the outdoors, consider a Vizsla. This breed is a natural athlete and is a perfect companion on a long hike. Bred to work closely with hunters, these dogs develop strong attachments to their owners and hate to be left out of activities. In fact, they are one of the most affectionate dog breeds.

But, Vizslas need a lot of exercise. Their high energy level and athleticism make them a good running partner and a good choice for biking with your dog. When properly trained, this breed needs good off-leash activities to run off their energy. The Vizsla is a gentle and affectionate dog that is sure to keep you in good company on any of your outdoor activities.

21. Weimaraner

The Weimaraner is known for their beautiful gray coat, but they’re also a very outdoorsy dog. They originated as a German gun dog, which makes them lovers of anything outside.

Weimaraners need plenty of exercise. They love jogging with their owners, but are also great at driving game for hunters. Weimaraners are quick to learn, which makes them easy to train, too!

These are just a few sturdy dog breeds for outdoor adventures. Although most of them will be able to take on almost anything, the best fit for you could differ depending on what types of outdoor adventures you love the most.