Dogs are some of the best running partners, especially smaller dogs that can keep the same pace as the runner. Traditionally smaller dogs have more energy than the average medium or large-sized dog. So, this makes them the perfect companion for your early morning run.
The 9 best small dogs for running partners include:
- Beagle
- Toy Poodle
- Welsh Corgi
- Papillon
- Jack Russell Terrier
- Wire Fox Terrier
- Tenterfield Terrier
- Parson Russell Terrier
- Rat Terrier.
We know it can be overwhelming to find your new best friend, so, if you’re on the hunt for the ultimate running buddy, let us help make your decision easier!
Beagles Are Good for Short Distance
When this dog isn’t cuddling with you for an afternoon nap, they will be begging for some exercise.
Beagles crave at least one (1) hour of activity a day in any environment.
Once they understand the words ‘walk’ or ‘leash’, you won’t be able to get your pup to calm down until they go outdoors.
If you are a short distance runner, a sprinter, or are just getting started on your marathon training, then Beagles are the perfect match.
If you like hiking and running, Beagles make great hiking dogs because of their energy and stamina.
Toy Poodles Will Maintain Your Pace
Poodles might come off as pretty and pompous, but they are not afraid to get down and dirty on the trails.
They were originally bred to retrieve game shots by hunters in creeks and lakes, so they are used to running.
They enjoy long, steady runs and can maintain your pace.
Once the Toy Poodle starts to get worn out, all they need is a dip in the local creek or stream, and they will be ready to keep coasting.
Poodles are typically very playful and will make your run a fun one!
Welsh Corgis Have the Energy
Despite their stubby legs, the Pembroke and Cardigan Welsh Corgis are among the best jogging partners.
This highly energized dog is not for a sit-at-home family.
Not only do Corgis have a strong mind, but they are built strong physically.
We guarantee that they will beg you for a game of fetch even after you return from your evening jog.
Any Corgi will make a great partner on hikes, provided they are fit and not overweight.
Papillons Loves To Sprint
Don’t let these small dogs fool you. Their bundles of energy make them very agile on their feet. That’s why they are best suited to runners who prefer to sprint or jog short distances.
You would need to build up to a distance to a couple of miles to ensure they can keep up with you when you jog 2-3 times per week. Be cautious when running with your Papillon in the heat.
They are very playful dogs and make great companion dogs.
Jack Russell Terriers Run for Miles
These fireballs are ranked with high energy levels. They are always ready for extra playtime and extra-long runs.
As the Terrier was bred for hunting, they are focused and driven on the finish line. Don’t let their size fool you. They are quick and can keep up with you, no problem.
Ultimately, they are in it for the long run. You can build up a Jack Russell’s running distance up to 10 miles.
Wire Fox Terriers Are Great 3 Mile Runners
These alert dogs are great running partners. They typically enjoy at least 30-45 minutes of exercise daily, making for the perfect companion on an average 3-mile run.
Wires are confident, friendly, and highly energetic.
If you decide to skip your daily run, then you might end up playing fetch for longer than expected.
Tenterfield Terrier
The Tenterfield Terrier, also known as a Miniature Fox Terrier, needs a daily walk or jog. They originated as a working dog, used to catching mice, rats, and another vermin.
Let’s hope you don’t encounter any vermin on your jog with your Tenterfield because they will bolt away from your side.
If you’re looking for some other fun stuff to do with your Tenterfield Terrier, these dogs excel in agility and flyball competitions.
Parson Russell Terrier Enjoy All Terrains
Along with Jack Russells, Parsons are short-legged spurts of energy.
These sporty terriers like to extract their excitement by running among:
- Horses
- Fox
- Sheep
- Humans.
PRT’s do not like to be cooped up in the house chasing their tail for hours. They look forward most to getting their exercise outdoors.
The Parson Russell is the perfect companion for your daily workout if you enjoy activities like:
- Pavement running
- Trail running
- Hiking
- Mountain biking.
Rat Terriers Are Easily Trained
The Rat Terrier is one of the most active hunting dogs within the Terrier breed.
They can be trained relatively quickly, yet they still enjoy a good chase after the neighborhood groundhog or mole.
These dogs can run 2-3 miles if they are healthy and well-conditioned.
Have your Rat Terrier well trained before taking them for outdoor runs as these breeds get sidetracked quickly. You might want to invest in a longer leash to help keep this dog’s brain on the right path.
The Summary So Far
The best small dogs for running are playful dogs with loads of energy to burn. They are fit, healthy, and conditioned to keep up with your pace. These dogs can join you on long steady runs on a trail, park or pavement, jogs or sprints at the track.
Here’s a summary of which dog breed suits each type of runner.
| Breed | Would Suit |
| Beagle | A short distance runner, a sprinter, or someone just getting started with training for a marathon. |
| Toy Poodle | A runner who enjoys long and steady runs. |
| Welsh Corgi | Joggers |
| Papillon | Sprinters and short-distance joggers |
| Wire Fox Terrier | Joggers who prefer shorter distances (around 3 miles). |
| Jack Russell Terrier | Joggers who run between 3 to 10 miles per session. |
| Tenterfield Terrier | Joggers |
| Parson Russell Terriers | Lovers of pavement and trail running |
| Rat Terrier | Short distance joggers (up to 3 miles) |
Small Dog Breeds Not Built for Running
Every dog needs to engage in some daily activity, but not all breeds are made for running.
You will get a short burst out of your pup, as most of these dogs are quick. But if you decide to go out for a mile-long run, expect to walk a majority of that with some small dog breeds.
If you get fit on a dirt road or a hiking trail, don’t take these pampered pups along with you:
- Yorkshire Terrier (Yorkie)
- Pomeranian
- Shih Tzu
- Chihuahua
Although these are all active dogs, they are much happier in a fenced-in yard or with a lap around the block.
Contrary to what their chunky rolls might show, Bulldogs and Pugs do not need much exercise. In fact, these short-snouted, stocky dogs should not be outdoors long as they do not do well in the heat at all. Give them puzzle toys or KONG balls to give them the exercise needed without becoming exhausted by cardio.
What Classifies a Dog as Small?
During our research for the best small dog breed for running, we defined a small dog as weighing under 22 pounds and standing under 16 inches.
Of course, there are slightly overweight dogs, but they still meet the small dog criteria’s initial requirements.
Things You Know Before You Run With Your Dog
Don’t start too young
If you are running with a puppy, they need to be more than eight (8) months old. This is because their bones and growth plates develop to handle running on hard surfaces. To ease the pressure on their joints, try to have your dog run on grass or softer surfaces than concrete.
Train your dog
Also, if your canine companion is excitable, invest time in training them to settle down on your run. This will avoid them from dodging off suddenly (especially Terriers and Papillons) and chasing a cat, bird, rat, or mouse.
Take care of business
Go for a short walk with your dog before the run. Ensure your dogs relieves themselves before the run.
Look for signs
As you get to know your dog, you will notice when they tire or are too hot. Therefore, pay close attention to signs of heat exhaustion or dehydration.
Healthy and fit
Train your dog over time by building up their running distances.
Play it safe
Get your dog to wear reflective gear if you are running at night.
Products to Help Prepare for Your First Run
Preparing for a run for yourself is a lot of work and effort. Adding an extra partner shouldn’t have to add any more stress.
Let us help you out with the best products to ensure you get the most out of your workout.
Compact water bowl
Safety and health are essential on a run with your best buddy. Make sure to pack a compactable water bowl and extra water to ensure you all stay well hydrated when running on a hot day!
Our recommendation is this Prima Pets collapsible silicone water bowl.
Hands-free dog leash
A hands-free leash will guarantee a safe run for you.
Here are our recommendations.
Best hands-free leash with waist belt: Mighty Paw Running Leash
This leash consists of bungee cord and reflective stitching. This leash is suitable for small dogs because it’s adjustable and not too heavy. It’s perfect for running and walking, even if you have more than one furry friend.
Best running/utility belt: Kurgo K9 Excursion Running Belt
You may prefer to have a running belt where you can stash your keys, phone, and poop bags (waist pouch) and hold a water bottle. Attach the Mighty Paw Running Leash to the clip, and you are ready to go.
Best non-hands free leash for small dogs: Hurtta Leash For Jogging
You don’t have to hold this leash in your hand as you run. Instead, it wraps around your hand like a glove, so you are kinda “hands-free”. This leash also has reflectors stitched into the leash to keep your dog seen in the night or low-light situations.
This is not a great option if your small dog is a puller.
Best running harness for small dogs: Ruff Wear Front Range
Having a harness will allow you and your dog to run comfortably without choking or pulling.
This harness has plenty of padding to keep your small dog comfortable.
You can clip the leash part of your Mighty Paws either on the front or the back of the harness. If your small dog pulls when they run, the front clip is the ideal option. This is because your dog finds it harder to keep moving forward without spinning around.
This harness also has a reflective trim to keep your dog shining during your evening jogs is optimal.
Running at night time
We recommend a LED collar and a high visibility reflective vest for your dog.
Now That You’re Ready
Which are the best small dogs for running? We’ve covered 9 energetic breeds that would make the perfect canine companion.
So, when out for a quick jog or a long trek through the trails, take one of these small athletic dogs with you. A running companion always helps keep the motivation high, the mind clear, and the movement steady. We look forward to seeing you both out there!
Other Helpful Resources
Here at Outdoor Dog Fun, we know that next to walking your dog, running with your dog is a popular outdoor activity. Take a look at these running-related articles:
- How to train your dog to run with you
- What kind of mileage can a dog clock up?
- Marathons and dogs: is it possible?
- Love trail running: here are the best canine companions
If you’re mad about small dogs, here are some other topics related to small dogs that we’ve published on the Outdoor Dog Fun blog:
- Can small dogs do dock diving?
- How long can a small dog go without water?
- What is the best swimming pool for small dogs?
- Looking for a small dog that looks like a Husky?
- What small dog breeds can live outside?
- Safety tips for hiking with a small dog