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Best Dogs For Active Families (2025 Updated)

If you’re looking for a furry companion that can keep up with your active lifestyle, a dog may be just what you need. Dogs have always been known for their loyalty and companionship, but they can also make excellent workout partners. With their boundless energy and playful nature, it's no wonder why dogs are the perfect match for active families.

Before bringing home a new dog, there are a few factors to consider. How much time and attention can you devote to a pet? What type of physical activity will suit your lifestyle and the dog's needs? What size and breed of dog will thrive in your home environment? Each family and each dog are unique, so it's important to do your research and choose a pet that will fit seamlessly into your lifestyle.

Are you looking for a running partner to keep you motivated on your daily jog? Do you want a loyal companion to go hiking and camping with? Or perhaps you want a dog that can keep up with your kids at the park. Whatever your lifestyle, there is a dog out there that is perfect for you. So why not take the leap and bring home a furry friend that will support and enhance your active lifestyle?

10 Best Dogs For Active Families

# Product Image Product Name Product Notes Check Price
1
This dog food is ideal for active dogs who need high protein for muscle maintenance and energy.
2
This product is ideal for active adult dogs who require a grain-free and gluten-free diet with added hip and joint support.
3
Ideal for active dogs of all breeds and life stages, providing high energy and gluten-free food with beef and chicken meal proteins.
4
This product is ideal for toddlers who enjoy climbing, sliding, crawling and playing in an outdoor setting.
5
Double seating for multiple activities, including biking, jogging, strolling, and more.
6
The product is ideal for parents who want to safely transport their children on bike rides or walks.
7
The product is ideal for individuals who want to monitor their heart health at home using a smartphone compatible device.
8
This product is ideal for adult large breed dogs and features a chicken recipe.
9
Ideal for medium and small breed senior dogs who need reduced activity levels with a chicken-based diet.
10
Ideal for recreational kayaking and fishing with 2-3 people, equipped with padded seats, paddles, and rod holder mounts.
This dog food is ideal for active dogs who need high protein for muscle maintenance and energy.
This product is ideal for active adult dogs who require a grain-free and gluten-free diet with added hip and joint support.
Ideal for active dogs of all breeds and life stages, providing high energy and gluten-free food with beef and chicken meal proteins.
This product is ideal for toddlers who enjoy climbing, sliding, crawling and playing in an outdoor setting.
Double seating for multiple activities, including biking, jogging, strolling, and more.
The product is ideal for parents who want to safely transport their children on bike rides or walks.
The product is ideal for individuals who want to monitor their heart health at home using a smartphone compatible device.
This product is ideal for adult large breed dogs and features a chicken recipe.
Ideal for medium and small breed senior dogs who need reduced activity levels with a chicken-based diet.
Ideal for recreational kayaking and fishing with 2-3 people, equipped with padded seats, paddles, and rod holder mounts.

1. Purina Pro Plan Active, High Protein Dog Food, Sport 27/17 Chicken & Rice Formula – 37.5 Lb. Bag

Purina Pro Plan Active, High Protein Dog Food SPORT 27/17 Chicken & Rice Formula is a premium quality dog food that comes in a 37.5 lb. bag. This high protein formula dog food is designed to provide your dog with the energy and nutrition they need to lead an active life.

With a protein content of 27% and fat content of 17%, this dog food provides the perfect balance of nutrients to fuel metabolic needs and help maintain lean muscle. The real chicken is the first ingredient, which makes this dog food a great source of high-quality protein.

This dog food is fortified with guaranteed live probiotics to support digestive and immune health. The probiotics help maintain a healthy digestive system and improve the immune system's functionality. This dog food was previously known as SPORT Active 26/16 Formula.

Pros

  • High protein content of 27% to provide the required energy for active dogs
  • Contains real chicken as the first ingredient, providing high-quality protein
  • Fortified with guaranteed live probiotics to support digestive and immune health

2. Gluten-Free Hero Dog Food With Joint Health Boost

The VICTOR Grain Free Hero Canine formula with Glucosamine is a high-quality dog food that is designed to meet the needs of highly active adult dogs, particularly those that may be susceptible to joint issues later in life. This super premium dog food contains 33% protein, with over 75% of the protein coming from a combination of beef, chicken, pork, and fish meal. The carbohydrates in this formula are sourced from USA peas and sweet potato, making it a grain-free option for dogs with sensitivities to grains.

In addition to its protein and carbohydrate sources, this dog food also includes multiple additives that work to support excellent digestion and a strong immune system. It is a nutritionally balanced food that provides all the essential nutrients that dogs need to thrive.

If you're looking for a high-quality dog food that is designed to support the overall health and well-being of your dog, the VICTOR Grain Free Hero Canine formula with Glucosamine is an excellent choice.

Pros

  • High-quality dog food made with a combination of beef, chicken, pork, and fish meal
  • Contains glucosamine to support joint health
  • Grain-free formula made with USA peas and sweet potato
  • Includes multiple additives to support digestion and immune system

3. Super Energy Dog Food For Active Breeds!

Give your furry friend the energy they need with this high energy dog food. Ideal for highly active and sporting dogs, this super premium dry kibble is formulated to support your dog's rigorous training demands. Whether it's for stamina or endurance, this gluten-free dog food is a nutrient-dense, multi-protein formula made with high-quality beef and chicken meals to promote sustained energy.

Suitable for all life stages of small dogs, medium dogs, and large breed dogs, this super premium dog food is formulated to maintain healthy weight and energy levels. With our proprietary VPRO blend of supplements, vitamins, and minerals, this super premium dog food has been formulated to maximize the genetic potential of every dog, regardless of breed, age, or activity level. Our exclusive mix of supplements, vitamins, and minerals keep your dog healthy and strong.

At VICTOR, we proudly produce every bag of kibble in our own Texas-based facility. We are committed to high-quality nutrition and a majority of our ingredients come from ranches, farms, and other trusted suppliers who are within a day's drive of our East Texas plant. You can trust that your furry friend is getting the best nutrition possible with VICTOR dog food.

Pros

  • Ideal for highly active and sporting dogs
  • Multi-protein formula promotes sustained energy
  • Suitable for all life stages of small dogs, medium dogs, and large breed dogs
  • Formulated to maintain healthy weight and energy levels
  • VPRO blend maximizes the genetic potential of every dog
  • Exclusive mix of supplements, vitamins, and minerals keep your dog healthy and strong
  • Made in the USA with high-quality ingredients

4. Elevated Clubhouse With Double Slides

The Step2 Clubhouse Climber Playset is the perfect addition to any backyard, providing hours of make-believe playtime for multiple kids. With two slides, a bridge, and crawl-through tunnels, this large toddler gym encourages active and social play, while also promoting imagination, creativity, and role-playing. The open-ended design allows little ones to transform the structure into a castle, pirate ship, or any other imaginative play scenario they can dream up.

Not only is the Clubhouse Climber fun, but it also offers great developmental benefits. The stairs, slides, tunnels, and steering wheel all provide opportunities for gross motor skill practice, hand-eye coordination, and balance during play. Parents will appreciate the easy entry steps with sure-grip rails, ensuring safe climbing for little ones. The secure placement on the ground also provides peace of mind for parents, while also inspiring hours of independent playtime for toddlers – with enough space to invite friends over too!

The Clubhouse Climber is made with unmatched durability in mind, featuring double-walled plastic construction and molded-in colors that won't chip, fade, crack, or peel, ensuring it lasts for generations. It's also low maintenance, making it easy to wipe down as needed. The mix of fun and natural colors and textures make this playset a great addition to any yard. In the box, you'll find clubhouse towers, connecting bridge, steering wheel accessory, 2 slides, and steps.

Pros

  • Encourages active and social play
  • Promotes imagination, creativity, and role-playing
  • Offers great developmental benefits
  • Easy entry steps with sure-grip rails for safe climbing
  • Secure placement on the ground
  • Inspires independent playtime for toddlers
  • Provides enough space to invite friends over
  • Unmatched durability with double-walled plastic construction and molded-in colors
  • Low maintenance
  • Mix of fun and natural colors and textures

5. Thule Chariot Cross Multisport Trailer & Stroller, Double

The all-in-one stroller, jogger, bike trailer, and ski pulk designed for active families is here. With its versatile features, it offers the ultimate solution for parents who love to engage in different activities with their kids. The stroller comes with strolling and biking kits included, while jogging and ski kits are sold separately. The compact fold design makes it easy to transport and store, making it perfect for families on the go.

The stroller features a one-handed recline for naps on the go, and the seats recline independently, providing maximum comfort. The adjustable suspension ensures a smooth ride, even on uneven terrain, while the comfortable padded seats are easy to remove and clean. The XL cargo space can be stored away to increase kick stride while jogging, ensuring parents can carry all their essentials while on the go.

The stroller comes with a rear light for visibility and safety, ensuring parents and kids can be seen on the road. The adjustable ventilation vents optimize airflow and climate control, ensuring the kids are comfortable in any weather. The stroller also comes with a feature that allows parents to store strolling, jogging, and cycling kits directly on the trailer when not in use, making it easy to switch between activities.

Overall, the all-in-one stroller, jogger, bike trailer, and ski pulk designed for active families is an excellent investment for parents who love to engage in different activities with their kids. Its versatile design and features make it an ideal choice for parents who want a stroller that can adapt to their active lifestyle.

Pros

  • Versatile design for different activities
  • Easy to transport and store
  • Smooth ride on uneven terrain
  • Comfortable padded seats
  • XL cargo space for carrying essentials
  • Rear light for visibility and safety
  • Adjustable ventilation vents for optimal airflow and climate control
  • Easily store strolling, jogging and cycling kit directly on trailer when not in use

6. Burley Encore X, 2 Seat Kids Bike Trailer & Stroller

The bike trailer comes with an included 1-Wheel Stroller Kit, making it easy to transition from biking to strolling right out of the box. The suspension system adds an extra layer of comfort for kids by softening bumps and jostles. The 20” push button wheels are incredibly easy to install and remove. The handlebar is height-adjustable, and it doubles as an additional roll bar when folded forward while biking. The trailer also comes with a water-resistant cover and zippers to provide added protection in wet conditions. The rear window ventilation and sunshade protect passengers from harmful UV rays. If you need to use it as a cargo trailer, you can detach the seat. The hub-engaged parking brake keeps the trailer in place when loading and unloading passengers or cargo. Lastly, this bike trailer is compatible with all kit conversions for stroller, jogger, and skiing.

The bike trailer comes with a variety of features that make it an excellent choice for parents who value convenience and comfort. The 1-Wheel Stroller Kit allows you to switch from biking to strolling with ease, while the suspension system ensures a smooth ride for your little ones. The water-resistant cover and zippers protect your kids from the elements, and the sunshade shields them from harmful UV rays. Additionally, the bike trailer has a detachable seat, making it easy to use as a cargo trailer. The hub-engaged parking brake keeps the trailer in place when loading and unloading passengers or cargo. Finally, the compatibility with all kit conversions for stroller, jogger, and skiing means that you can use this bike trailer for all of your outdoor adventures.

If you're looking for a bike trailer that can do it all, this is the one for you. With the included 1-Wheel Stroller Kit, you can easily transition from biking to strolling, and the suspension system ensures a comfortable ride for your kids. The water-resistant cover and zippers provide added protection in wet conditions, while the sunshade shields your little ones from harmful UV rays. The detachable seat makes it easy to use the trailer as a cargo carrier, and the hub-engaged parking brake keeps it in place when loading and unloading passengers or cargo. Finally, the compatibility with all kit conversions for stroller, jogger, and skiing means that you can use this bike trailer for any outdoor activity you have in mind.

Pros

  • 1-Wheel Stroller Kit included for easy transition from biking to strolling
  • Suspension system provides a comfortable ride for kids
  • Water-resistant cover and zippers protect passengers from wet conditions
  • Sunshade shields passengers from harmful UV rays
  • Detachable seat allows for use as a cargo trailer
  • Hub-engaged parking brake keeps trailer in place when loading and unloading
  • Compatible with all kit conversions for stroller, jogger, and skiing

7. Kardiamobile Ekg Monitor: Track & Analyze Heart Health

The KardiaMobile 6L personal EKG device, which comes with a one-year KardiaCare membership, is the only device in the world that offers six-lead EKGs. This means that it provides a more detailed view of your heart and more data to share with your doctor. The KardiaCare membership provides enhanced EKG analysis and further information about your heart.

As a KardiaCare member, you'll have the ability to detect six of the most common arrhythmias, including AFib and PVCs, right on your smartphone. While the KardiaMobile 6L does not check for heart attack, it records a medical-grade EKG and provides FDA-cleared determinations of your heart rhythm in just 30 seconds. Combined with a KardiaCare membership, it's the perfect solution for tracking your heart activity from home.

The KardiaMobile 6L device is compatible with most popular phones and tablets. To use your Kardia device, you must download the Kardia app on a compatible device running at least Apple iOS 10.3.3, or at least Android OS 6.0. Visit the Alivecor website for a complete list of compatible devices.

A KardiaCare membership also allows you to get a cardiologist's opinion from home. You can have your EKG analyzed by a board-certified cardiologist in 24 hours or less without leaving your home. Your KardiaCare membership includes four reviews annually, which is only available in the US.

Pros

  • Six-lead EKGs provide a more detailed view of the heart and more data to share with the doctor.
  • KardiaCare membership provides enhanced EKG analysis and further information about the heart.
  • Can detect six of the most common arrhythmias, including AFib and PVCs, right on the smartphone.
  • Records a medical-grade EKG and provides FDA-cleared determinations of the heart rhythm in just 30 seconds.
  • Perfect solution for tracking the heart activity from home.
  • Compatible with most popular phones and tablets.
  • Get a cardiologist's opinion from home.
  • KardiaCare membership includes four reviews annually.

Cons

  • – Does not check for heart attack.

8. Gold Standard Large Breed Chicken Dog Food

The Large Breed Dog Food is specially formulated for breeds with adult weights exceeding 50 pounds. This dry dog food has a chicken recipe that meets the nutritional levels established by the AAFCO Dog Food Nutrient Profiles for growth and maintenance. Fromm Family Foods, a fifth-generation family-owned-and-operated pet food company based in Wisconsin, produces this food. Since 1904, the family has maintained a tradition of quiet innovation, dedicated to the health and nutrition of animals. With high-quality protein sources such as chicken, duck, and lamb, this dog kibble is very digestible and highly palatable. These protein sources provide amino acids needed for maintaining muscle, tissue repair, hormone synthesis, and other metabolic processes. The dry food for dogs contains a mix of whole grains that are highly nutritious. These grains provide a variety of vitamins, minerals, and high-quality complex carbohydrates, which can provide energy and fiber. This 30 lb bag of adult dog food is ideal for large and giant breeds. Fromm is committed to providing exceptional foods to pet families everywhere and would love to assist with your pet’s nutritional needs.

Pros

  • Specially formulated for breeds with adult weights exceeding 50 pounds
  • Chicken recipe meets the nutritional levels established by the AAFCO Dog Food Nutrient Profiles for growth and maintenance
  • Produced by Fromm Family Foods, a fifth-generation family-owned-and-operated pet food company based in Wisconsin
  • High-quality protein sources such as chicken, duck, and lamb
  • Contains a mix of highly nutritious whole grains
  • Provides a variety of vitamins, minerals, and high-quality complex carbohydrates, which can provide energy and fiber
  • Ideal for large and giant breeds

9. Fromm Senior Gold Chicken Dog Food – 30lb.

The Senior Dog Food by Fromm Family Foods is a dry dog food made with chicken recipe, specially formulated for less active adult dogs and senior dogs. This dog food meets the nutritional levels established by the AAFCO Dog Food Nutrient Profiles to ensure maintenance of your pet's health. The high-quality protein in this dog kibble comes from chicken, duck, and lamb, which are easily digestible and highly palatable sources of protein. These provide amino acids required to maintain muscle, tissue repair, hormone synthesis, and other metabolic processes.

This dry food for dogs contains a mix of whole grains that include an impressive variety of vitamins, minerals, and high-quality complex carbohydrates. These can provide energy and fiber to your pet. The 30 lb bag of dry dog food is very easy to feed to your pet. Fromm Family Foods is a fifth-generation family-owned-and-operated pet food company based in Wisconsin, dedicated to providing exceptional foods to pet families everywhere. Let Fromm assist you with your pet’s nutritional needs.

Pros

  • Made with chicken recipe, specially formulated for less active adult dogs and senior dogs
  • Meets the nutritional levels established by the AAFCO Dog Food Nutrient Profiles
  • High-quality protein from chicken, duck, and lamb that is easily digestible and highly palatable
  • Mix of whole grains provides an impressive variety of vitamins, minerals, and high-quality complex carbohydrates
  • Provides energy and fiber to your pet
  • Easy to feed to your pet

10. Teton Recreational Tandem Kayak Package

The Recreational Kayak is a 12-foot long tandem kayak, perfect for fishing, traveling, or family recreation. With a weight capacity of 500 pounds, it can accommodate two paddlers along with a center seat for a child or solo paddling. The hull is constructed from a single piece rotomolded UV resistant high-density polyethylene for unmatched strength and durability.

This kayak is adventure-ready with four flush mount capped rod holders and two mounting points for Scotty accessories, a rear tankwell storage with bungee, dual watertight storage hatches with inserts, and built-in cup holders. It is fully outfitted with four fixed carry handles for easy transportation, two paddle park holders to secure paddles when not in use, and a molded center cockpit seat.

The package includes two adjustable EVA padded seats with high back support, two anodized aluminum performance kayak paddles with ergonomic grips, and eight scupper plugs for self-bailing ports. This kayak is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts who want a sturdy and reliable vessel for their adventures on the water.

Pros

  • Can accommodate two paddlers and a child or for solo paddling
  • Constructed from single piece rotomolded UV resistant high-density polyethylene
  • Four flush mount capped rod holders and two mounting points for Scotty accessories
  • Dual watertight storage hatches with inserts and built-in cup holders
  • Two adjustable EVA padded seats with high back support
  • Two anodized aluminum performance kayak paddles with ergonomic grips

Cons

  • – May be too heavy for some users to transport
  • – May not be suitable for advanced kayaking techniques

Best Dogs For Active Families FAQs

How can families ensure their dogs are properly trained for outdoor activities?

Families can ensure their dogs are properly trained for outdoor activities by starting with basic obedience training. This includes teaching the dog commands such as sit, stay, come, and heel. Once the dog has mastered these basic commands, families can move on to more advanced training for outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, and swimming.

For hiking, families can gradually increase the distance and difficulty of the trails they take their dogs on, while also practicing commands such as "leave it" and "stay." For camping, families can teach their dogs to sleep in a tent and follow commands such as "settle" and "quiet." For swimming, families can introduce their dogs to water gradually and teach them how to swim and exit the water safely.

It's important for families to be patient and consistent with their training, and to always use positive reinforcement methods such as treats and praise. Additionally, families should ensure their dogs are up-to-date on vaccinations and have proper identification in case they get separated during outdoor activities. With proper training and preparation, families can enjoy outdoor activities with their dogs safely and happily.

How much exercise do dogs need to be considered active?

Dogs are naturally active animals and require a good amount of exercise to maintain their physical and mental health. The amount of exercise needed for a dog to be considered active depends on various factors such as breed, age, size, and overall health. Generally, dogs should get at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise per day, which can be achieved through activities such as walking, running, playing fetch, or swimming. However, some breeds such as Border Collies, German Shepherds, and Siberian Huskies, require more exercise and mental stimulation than others due to their high energy levels. These breeds may need up to 60 or 90 minutes of exercise per day. It's important to note that exercise should be incorporated into a dog's daily routine gradually to avoid injury and to ensure that they enjoy the activity. Additionally, it's always best to consult with a veterinarian to determine the appropriate amount of exercise for your dog's specific needs.

What are some safety considerations families should keep in mind when engaging in outdoor activities with their dogs?

When engaging in outdoor activities with dogs, families must prioritize safety to ensure that their furry friend remains safe and healthy. One of the most important considerations is ensuring that the dog is up to date on all vaccinations, including those for ticks and fleas to prevent the spread of diseases. Families must also ensure that their dog is wearing identification tags with updated contact information in case they get lost.

Another essential safety consideration is keeping the dog on a leash or within a fenced area to prevent them from wandering off or running into dangerous situations such as traffic or wildlife. It is also crucial to bring plenty of water and food for the dog, as well as carrying a first aid kit in case of accidents or injuries.

Families should also be mindful of the weather conditions and avoid outdoor activities during extreme heat or cold. Additionally, it’s important to monitor the dog for signs of exhaustion, dehydration, or other health issues, and take necessary breaks as needed.

In summary, families should prioritize safety by ensuring their dog is up to date on vaccinations, wearing identification tags, kept on a leash or within a fenced area, bringing plenty of water and food, carrying a first aid kit, being mindful of weather conditions, and monitoring their dog's health.

What breeds of dogs are best suited for active families?

There are several dog breeds that are well-suited for active families. One of the most popular and well-known breeds is the Labrador Retriever. Labs are known for their friendly demeanor, high energy levels, and love for exercise. Other breeds that are great for active families include the Border Collie, Australian Shepherd, and Golden Retriever. These breeds are smart, energetic, and love to play and run around. The Siberian Husky is also a great choice for active families, as they were bred for sledding and running over long distances. It is important to note that all dogs require exercise and mental stimulation, regardless of breed. Before bringing home a new furry friend, it is important to research and consider the specific needs of the breed and individual dog to ensure a happy and healthy life together.

What types of activities can active families do with their dogs?

Active families can engage in a variety of activities with their furry companions. Taking their dogs for a walk or a run around the park or the block is an excellent way to keep both the dogs and the family members active. Hiking and camping trips can also be a great adventure for the family and their dogs. Playing fetch or frisbee in the backyard or at the beach can help improve the dog's agility and provide an excellent bonding opportunity for the family.

For more adventurous families, they can try out dog-friendly sports such as agility training, dock diving, and flyball. These activities help keep both the dog's mind and body active while having fun with their family. Additionally, visiting dog-friendly locations such as dog parks and pet-friendly cafes can provide the family and their dogs with a socialization opportunity.

It's essential to ensure that the activities are suitable for the dog's breed, age, and physical capabilities. Always consider the dog's safety and comfort when engaging in any activity. With these activities, active families can enjoy quality time with their dogs while keeping them healthy and happy.

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