If you’ve been thinking about welcoming a new dog into your home then you’re in good company – Royal Kennel Club (the new name for the UK Kennel Club) stats show that the number of people looking for puppies has surged to record levels.
Dogs come in all shapes, colours and sizes - there are 221 different pedigree dogs recognised by breeders in the UK, from Affenpinscher to Yorkshire Terrier (there are sadly no dog breeds starting with the letter ‘z’!).
So there’s plenty of thinking to do before you select your family’s latest four-legged addition – whether you want a large dog, family-friendly dog, or an easy to train dog.
Read more:
There is even scientific research to guide you, in particular psychologist Stanley Coren’s groundbreaking book The Intelligence of Dogs.
Choosing the right breed is absolutely essential – for example opting for a small dog if you don’t have much room at home, or a hypoallergenic dog if you suffer from allergies.
It’s important to understand that it is crucial to set aside some time for a dog to walk and run around in an open space – exercise is a fundamental part of a dog’s routine.
Not only does a sprint in the park do wonders for your four-legged friend’s morale, but it also helps them keep healthy and in shape.
That said, while all dog breeds need exercise, some require more physical activity than others.
To help out here are the 22 most and least active breeds.
Make sure you don't miss a moment of breaking news from across Scotland by signing up to our free newsletter here.
13. German Shepherd
Bright, strong and obedient, it’s no wonder that German Shepherds are often used in police forces. They are very loyal companions that are not well-suited to apartment life and require at least a couple of hours of exercise every day. Get them stuck in engaging and physically demanding activities – you will soon discover that they are great fun to both train and go on adventures with. The same is true for the Belgian Malinois. | Canva/Getty Images
14. Labrador Retriever
The Labrador is a very friendly, loved and popular dog that requires a lot of physical activity. Alongside frequent walks by the beach or in the countryside, it also enjoys playing fetch (as the name suggests!) and splashing about in water. Their close cousin the Golden Retriever have a soft spot for swimming too. Both very active and clever, they can love to engage in strenuous activities – so make sure you make allowances for that. | Canva/Getty Images
15. Australian Shepherd
Australian Shepherds are energetic, intelligent working dogs that thrive on activity and companionship. They enjoy running, hiking, agility, obedience, herding, and challenging games that keep their minds occupied. | Canva/Getty Images
16. Border Collie
If you ever ask a class of dog breeds whether they enjoy working, Border Collies will certainly raise their paw. Often involved in sheep herding, these pooches are always on the move and are quick to complete their tasks. To keep them physically and mentally stimulated, make sure to provide them with lots of exercise. With all that energy, it takes quite a while to wear them out. | Canva/Getty Images