Find the Right Dog for Your Fitness Level

Are you a couch potato with a Jack Russell? Are you a marathon runner with a Boxer? Many people do not do any research when adopting a dog; they make an emotional decision based on the "cute puppy" factor. 

When adopting a dog, you are making an important 10 plus year commitment. Finding the perfect dog can mean the difference between a crazy dog with pent up energy that is acting out or a happy dog that is content with life. 

When you're ready for to adopt a dog, stop and ask yourself, "which dog breed is right for me and my activity?"

Here are a few common breeds for various activity levels that will help you find the right dog.

1) Dog Yoga

  • King Charles Spaniel
  • Pug
  • Bichon Fris?
  • Greyhound
  • Bull Mastiff
  • Bulldog
  • Chihuahua

2) 1K

  • Beagle
  • Cocker Spaniel
  • Boston Terrier
  • Daschshund
  • Lhasa Apso
  • Havanese
  • Bernese Mountain Dog

3) 5K

  • Golden Retriever
  • Labrador Retriever
  • Corgi
  • Miniature Schnauzer
  • Boxer
  • German Shepard

4) Marathon Runner

  • Vizsla
  • Jack Russell
  • Cairn Terrier
  • Poodle
  • Sheltie
  • Border Collie
  • Alaskan Malamute
  • Husky
  • Australian Shepherd

Of course, many of these breeds above may not need a lot of exercise, but they need a job to do and plenty of mental stimulation or they will become destructive, aggressive, or bark excessively.

It's always advisable to adopt from a shelter; most shelters can tell you all about the breed that you are adopting. If you do not have the time or energy to spend in training, exercising, and teaching your dog, then a low maintenance dog may be a better fit for you.

It's worth it to do your homework and not rush into anything so you and your dog will have a happy life together.

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Dawn Celapino, personal trainer and founder of Leash Your Fitness, a workout company for you and your dog has been training for over 15 years.  She loves anything outdoors that involves fitness and her furry friend, Jack.

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