21 Best Outdoor Dogs – Breeds That Thrive Outside

Despite the fact that all dogs have to go outside to answer nature’s call, some breeds enjoy the great outdoors more than others.

The best outdoor dogs are not only better suited for outdoor jobs, but they’ll also enjoy adventures, such as hiking and camping, more than other breeds will.

These outside dogs are also better choices for owners who intend on keeping their dog in the backyard for long periods of time.

Keeping Your Dog Safe While Outdoors

If you have one of the breeds below and you find that they thrive outdoors, then as a responsible pet owner, you will want to do everything in your power to ensure that their outdoor environment is a safe place for them.

The following are a few things you can do to ensure that your pup has a good time outside while remaining healthy and well-protected:

• Protection Against Parasites. Heartworms can be transmitted to your dog through a mosquito bite, and when this happens, it can become serious very quickly for your canine companion.
  To help prevent this, discuss dog dewormers with your veterinarian. You also need to ensure that there is no stagnant water and other areas in the yard where mosquitoes will breed and thrive.

• Poison Dangers. Stagnant water isn’t just a breeding ground for mosquitoes; it can also contain other harmful parasites that can cause gastrointestinal problems for your dog.
  Pesticides are something else to watch for because these can also be dangerous for your dog to come in contact with.
  In addition, there are also certain kinds of frogs, snakes, and spiders that can also be poisonous. It is best to learn which of these potentially dangerous animals is prevalent in your area so you can keep an eye out for them and take the necessary precautions to avoid them altogether.
  Certain plants are also toxic for dogs including azaleas, tulips, lilies, daffodils, and hydrangea, among others. Know which plants are in your yard and if they may be toxic.

• Know the Weather. Some dogs cannot tolerate extremely high or low temperatures and can cause issues. On these days when the weather is less than ideal, you will want to be sure to keep your dog indoors to ensure their health and safety. On hot days, make sure there is plenty of water accessible and on cold days, you should dress your pup appropriately.

• Escape Artists. Some dogs have proven to be experienced escape artists. If this sounds like your dog, you will want to do what you can to ensure that the yard is secure, and they can’t escape. Consider an outdoor dog kennel or invisible dog fence.
  If this is done and they still manage to escape, it is always beneficial to have your dog microchipped.
  When you do this, make sure that you keep your contact information up to date so you can be located if your dog gets lost.

• Vaccinations. Finally, one of the best things you can do for your dog’s health is to vaccinate them. Their rabies vaccinations should always be up to date. You should also talk to your veterinarian about other vaccinations that may benefit your outdoor dog.
  Above all, make sure they are supervised while outdoors. While it may be tempting to allow them to run around the yard freely, this opens things up to get dangerous very quickly.
  You run the risk of other animals coming in contact with your dog, and it only takes a few seconds for them to escape. Be aware of your surroundings and keep a watchful eye on them while they play outdoors.
  We’ll now talk about 21 of the best outdoor dogs below to help you find the best companion for your needs and lifestyle.

Best Outdoor Dogs

Ranking	Name	Height	Weight	Life span	Breed size	Temperament	Origin
1	Labrador Retriever	22–24 inches	64–79 lbs	10 – 12 years	Large	Outgoing, Even Tempered, Intelligent, Kind, Agile, Trusting, Gentle	Newfoundland
2	Australian Shepherd	20–23 inches	55–70 lbs	13 – 15 years	Large	Intelligent, Good-natured, Affectionate, Active, Protective	Western United States
3	Siberian Husky	21–24 inches	44–60 lbs	12 – 15 years	Large	Outgoing, Friendly, Intelligent, Alert, Gentle	Siberia
4	German Shepherd	24–26 inches	66–88 lbs	9 – 13 years	Large	Intelligent, Curious, Stubborn, Alert, Obedient, Loyal, Confident, Protective, Courageous, Watchful	Germany
5	Bernese Mountain Dogs	25–28 inches	84–110 lbs	6 – 8 years	Large	Intelligent, Affectionate, Loyal, Faithful	Switzerland
6	American Foxhound	22–25 inches	64–75 lbs	10 – 12 years	Large	Sweet-Tempered, Intelligent, Kind, Independent, Loyal, Loving	United States
7	Vizsla	22–25 inches	44–64 lbs	12 – 15 years	Large	Affectionate, Energetic, Loyal, Gentle, Quiet	Hungary
8	Alaskan Malamute	24–26 inches	79–95 lbs	10 – 12 years	Large	Playful, Friendly, Devoted, Affectionate, Dignified, Loyal	Alaska
9	Rottweiler	24–27 inches	110–130 lbs	8 – 10 years	Large	Steady, Self-assured, Devoted, Fearless, Good-natured, Alert, Obedient, Confident, Calm, Courageous	Germany
10	Rhodesian Ridgeback	25–27 inches	79–90 lbs	10 – 12 years	Large	Sensitive, Dignified, Mischievous, Intelligent, Strong Willed, Loyal	Rhodesia, South Africa, Zimbabwe
11	Australian Cattle Dog	18–20 inches	33–35 lbs	13 – 15 years	Medium	Cautious, Energetic, Obedient, Loyal, Protective, Brave	Australia
12	Bearded Collie	21–22 inches	40–60 lbs	14 – 15 years	Medium	Intelligent, Self-confidence, Lively, Alert, Active, Hardy	Scotland
13	Collie	22–24 inches	45–65 lbs	14 – 16 years	Large	Intelligent, Friendly, Loyal, Active, Protective, Gentle	Scotland, United Kingdom
14	Belgian Sheepdog	24–26 inches	44–55 lbs	13 – 14 years	Large	Powerful, Intelligent, Affectionate, Loyal, Active	Belgium
15	Irish Wolfhound	32–34 inches	120-155 lbs	6 – 10 years	Giant	Sweet-Tempered, Dignified, Thoughtful, Generous, Patient, Loyal	Ireland
16	Keeshond	17–19 inches	31 – 40 lbs	13 – 15 years	Medium	Bright, Playful, Sturdy, Agile, Quick, Obedient	Germany, Netherlands
17	Norwegian Elkhound	19–21 inches	49 – 55 lbs	12 – 15 years	Medium	Hardy, Strong Willed, Bold, Alert, Loyal, Playful	Norway
18	Samoyed	21–24 inches	45–66 lbs	12 – 14 years	Large	Playful, Friendly, Lively, Sociable, Stubborn, Alert	Russia, Siberia
19	The Great Pyrenees	28–32 inches	110–120 lbs	10 – 12 years	Giant	Gentle, Strong Willed, Fearless, Affectionate, Patient, Confident	France, Spain
20	Mastiff	28–36 inches	160–230 lbs	6 – 12 years	Giant	Good-natured, Affectionate, Dignified, Protective, Calm, Courageous	England
21	Greater Swiss Mountain Dog	26–28 inches	130–150 lbs	10 – 11 years	Giant	Self-confidence, Devoted, Fearless, Good-natured, Alert, Protective	Switzerland

1. Labrador Retriever

Labrador Retrievers are a medium to large-sized breed. They typically love playing outdoors, and many have a special affinity for swimming. Most weigh between 55 and 80 pounds, with males typically reaching larger sizes than females.

These wonderful dogs were originally bred to help their owners work fishing nets, but they’re also celebrated hunting dogs, who have a special talent for retrieving fowl from the surface of the water.

Aside from being one of the best outdoor dog breeds, Labrador Retrievers are also very loyal and understand the nuances of body language, tone, and intent.

2. Australian Shepherd

The Australian Shepherd weighs between 35 and 70 lbs. They are a very intelligent, high-energy breed, and often considered one of the smartest breeds in the world.

They were bred for herding, so they are very quick and agile, and they’re always up for a little physical activity. They are also good trackers and seldom used for hunting purposes.

Australian Shepherds are obedient (when well-trained) and excellent with children, although they require plenty of exercise to remain healthy and happy.

3. Siberian Husky

The Siberian Husky is an outdoor dog breed that is well-suited for cold climates. They are working dogs that enjoy a physical challenge, and with their weight ranging from 45 to 60 pounds, they are well equipped for work.

They have high energy levels and need plenty of exercise to prevent boredom and destructive behaviors. Huskies are very social dogs, and they love hanging out outside with their owners or other dogs.

4. German Shepherd

The German Shepherd is a popular breed that can perform a variety of work tasks, but they make great pets too.

Originally developed to herd and guard livestock, they’ve also been used in a variety of police and military contexts, where their intelligence, strength, and bravery serve them well.

Additionally, German Shepherds also tend to love spending time outdoors, and they’re well-suited for a variety of climates.

5. Bernese Mountain Dogs

With an impressive physique and an average weight of 80 to 115 pounds, Bernese Mountain Dogs are gentle giants that were bred to withstand the cold and windy conditions common in their mountainous homes.

They have moderate energy levels by herding dog standards, which makes them better pets than some other breeds, and they’re also quite intelligent and loyal. They also love to please their owners.

Just be careful when housing Bernese Mountain Dogs outdoors in hot climates, as their long fur can quickly cause them to overheat.

6. American Foxhound

Bred for hunting purposes, the American Foxhound is an incredibly smart hunting dog that loves working and playing outdoors. They are medium-sized dogs, weighing anywhere from 40 to 65 pounds.

American Foxhounds are extremely energetic when hunting, and they bring this energy back home once the workday is over — these dogs will only remain happy if they’re allowed to run free for several hours each day.

They are also very smart dog breeds and their obedient nature makes them good family dogs.

7. Vizsla

Vizslas are energetic sighthounds, who are among the most active dog breeds in the world.

They love being outdoors, where they can exercise their muscles and satisfy their curiosity by exploring forests and fields. They are extremely smart and good-natured dogs, but they need to be kept busy.

Originally bred for hunting, Vizslas weigh between 45 and 65 pounds, making them a medium-sized breed. Simply put, Vizslas are one of the most rewarding breeds around, and they are one of the best dogs for outdoors.

8. Alaskan Malamute

Another arctic sled dog, the Alaskan Malamute is an extremely tough, loyal dog breed destined for hard work. They can be great family pets, but, because of their large size and playful nature, they require supervision around children.

Malamutes are strong-willed animals that are occasionally challenging for novice owners.

Weighing between 75 and 85 pounds, Malamutes are large working dogs, who enjoy working outdoors in frigid weather.

And note that while they enjoy being outdoors, they are not appropriate for owners living in places with high temperatures.

9. Rottweiler

Rottweilers are powerful, large dogs who typically weigh between 80 and 130 pounds. Most love exploring their local park or forest, and many Rottweilers even enjoy swimming.

But while Rottweilers love being outside, they do not like to be separated from their families.

Rottweilers bond strongly with their owners and are susceptible to severe separation anxiety, so they won’t make a good choice for those who intend to keep their dog in the backyard.

Rottweilers are very loving dogs, but because of their size, obedience training is imperative to ensure they remain safe around strangers.

READ MORE: 10 Ways to Treat Separation Anxiety in Dogs

10. Rhodesian Ridgeback

One of the most attractive breeds in the world, the Rhodesian Ridgeback is a muscular and agile athlete of a canine. They were bred to work in hot African climates, which helped them to develop impressive endurance and tolerance of harsh climatic conditions.

Rhodesian Ridgebacks make great jogging, hiking, and bicycling companions, although they can become chilly in low temperatures, thanks to their short coat and lanky build.

Just be sure that you can provide enough opportunities for exercise to keep these high-energy dogs happy.

11. Australian Cattle Dog

This medium-sized dog is very popular among the best outdoor dog breeds. It has a short coat so it can take the heat fairly well.

Weighing between 35 and 45 pounds, they are ideal family dogs. Very smart as well, the Australian Cattle Dog was bred for herding purposes.

Thriving when able to run around, they don’t make the best pets if someone doesn’t have enough space or needs to keep the animal indoors. They are very disciplined if taught well.

12. Bearded Collie

Another popular Collie breed, Bearded Collies, are medium-sized dogs that look much larger than their actual size, thanks to their amazingly dense long-haired coating. They weigh between 45 and 60 pounds and are renowned for their tracking ability.

Despite their look, they are agile dogs with amazing abilities, especially sniffing.

As one of the best outdoor dog breeds, they are cheerful dogs, constantly wagging their tails.

13. Collie

Often mistaken for the Border Collie, Collies or Rough Collies are a Scottish long-haired dog breed. Lassie, the famous dog from the novel Lassie Come-Home, was a Rough Collie.

They are very athletic dogs bred for herding. Collies possess keen intelligence and boast amazing agility weighing anywhere from 50 to 70 pounds.

They are also extremely energetic and can run around all day. When they have a lot of space, they are at their happiest. One of the best outdoor dog breeds for sure.

14. Belgian Sheepdog

Even though they aren’t a well-known breed, Belgian Sheepdogs are one of the best outdoor dog breeds in the world.

They originate from Belgium, where they were bred for sheep herding purposes in the early 1800s.

They are large-sized dogs weighing between 50 and 65 pounds, and they have a beautiful black coat. They are agile and obedient with excellent stamina and are notoriously easy to train.

Because of these reasons, Belgian Sheepdogs make excellent police, therapy, and family dogs.

15. Irish Wolfhound

One of the tallest breeds in the world, the Irish Wolfhound is an impressive dog to behold. Occasionally standing over 3-feet-tall at the shoulder, these big dogs were originally bred to hunt deer and other large prey.

Wolfhounds have thick, coarse fur that helps to provide them with protection from the elements, thereby making them one of the best outdoor dog breeds in the world.

Unfortunately, these large and lovable giants don’t live very long — few live long enough to see their eighth birthday.

16. Keeshond

The Keeshond is another lesser-known medium-sized dog breed that usually weighs between 35 and 40 pounds.

A northern breed with a thick coat, the Keeshond is very well adapted to cold climates, and they are usually happiest when they get the chance to play outside.

Although they don’t have quite as much energy as some other breeds, they still require daily exercise. They also require regular baths, brushing and grooming, to keep their coat looking its best.

17. Norwegian Elkhound

The Norwegian Elkhound is a hunting breed that was originally developed for pursuing elk, bear and other formidable prey. An extraordinarily strong dog breed the Elkhound needs the chance to burn off plenty of energy every day.

They thrive best in large, outdoor areas where they can freely roam — just be sure that you keep them leashed or within fenced areas, as they have a tendency to wander.

Male Norwegian Elkhounds typically weigh about 55 pounds, while females weigh a little less.

A true outdoor dog breed, the Norwegian Elkhound prefers hanging out outdoors rather than lounging on the couch, and they’ll quickly become frustrated if forced to spend their lives indoors.

18. Samoyed

Weighing about 40 to 75 pounds, the Samoyed is an ancient Siberian big white dog breed, originally developed to pull sleds and help keep their owners warm at night. They have a white coat and a loyal and loving personality.

Samoyeds are extremely playful dogs, who keep their puppy-like spirit well into their golden years.

Samoyeds are very intelligent dogs, who are often easy to train. However, if they aren’t provided with enough exercise, they can become quite destructive.

Nevertheless, they are one of the best outdoor dog breeds for owners living in cold climates.

19. The Great Pyrenees

The Great Pyrenees are large dogs who reach weights of between 85 and 135 pounds (males grow much larger than females). They are herding and guarding dogs, bred to work in the cold and harsh weather of the Pyrenees Mountains.

Although this breed isn’t as people-oriented as many others, they are still affectionate with their families, and they can make good pets for experienced owners.

The Great Pyrenees typically loves spending as much time outdoors as possible, and their thick coats help protect them from cold temperatures and wet weather.

20. Mastiff

One of the biggest dogs in the world, Mastiffs (formerly known as English Mastiffs) weigh between 120 and 230 pounds. However, despite their massive size, they are deceptively athletic.

Mastiffs were originally bred in Asia, but later they were brought over to England, where they have remained popular for more than 2,000 years.

Mastiffs love being outdoors, so they are ideal pets for those with large, fenced yards, as well as those who live in rural areas.

21. Greater Swiss Mountain Dog

Greater Swiss Mountain Dogs are large canines who weigh between 85 and 140 pounds. The males are very muscular and large, yet extremely agile for their size.

They share many similarities with Bernese Mountain Dogs and Rottweilers, who are both distant relatives of the breed.

Greater Swiss Mountain Dogs have moderate energy levels, so they don’t require constant attention, but they enjoy their walks and play sessions like any other dog. They are among the best outdoor dog breeds in the world, and they excel at guarding and herding tasks.

They are better suited for warm weather than some other breeds hailing from Switzerland and the surrounding region, but they are most comfortable in relatively cool climates.

Summing Up The Best Outside Dogs

Remember that even the best outdoor dog will require protection from the elements, so always make sure your dog has a large outdoor dog house or shelter into which he can retreat during rain, snow or soaring temperatures.

And don’t forget that most dogs will also enjoy getting the chance to hang out indoors with their families on occasion.

So, even if you select one of these great outside dogs, it’s important to understand if it’s okay to leave your dog outside all the time.

Angel Soriano (AKA DogMan) deals with this question in the video below:

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