7 Dogs That Are the Athletic Man’s Best Friend

Often referred to as man’s best friend, dogs have provided companionship and formed working partnerships with people of all ages and genders. However, it is a human condition to define oneself by his or her dog. Therefore, an athletic man might choose among several breeds that would specifically complement his physical appearance and fit in with his active lifestyle.

Dalmatian

The Dalmatian is striking with its spotted coat. It has long been associated with firehouses and horses and carriages. That a Dalmatian is paired with an athlete seems natural. Its own athleticism is evident in its straight and alert posture and its nimble and quick movements. Dalmatians featured in the circus, and not only because of their striking appearance. They are highly intelligent and possess remarkable endurance. The average purchase price of a Dalmatian is about $800, but many are valued at $5000 and up. Up to one-third of Dalmatians are either partially or entirely deaf. They can also suffer from hip dysplasia, allergies, and a unique type of urinary bladder stone. Fit as they are, they can have problems maintaining an ideal weight. Dalmatians require a lot of exercise, or they may end up hyperactive and destructive.

German Shepherd

German Shepherds embody power, beauty, and grace. They are so renowned for their versatility as bold working dogs that onlookers automatically assume anyone with one of them is more athletic than the average person. German Shepherd puppies cost on average $600, and a champion show dog might be worth several thousand. German Shepherds are intelligent, loyal, large and strong, excellent guard dogs, and high in energy. They may be prone to orthopedic problems like hip dysplasia and arthritis and can have behavioral issues like aggression. However, German Shepherd puppies thrive when given attention and care, consistent discipline and training, and an active lifestyle.

Labrador Retriever

You can see the Lab everywhere as a symbol of an outdoor lifestyle. Classified as “gun dogs,” Labradors are not bothered by much of anything. They are large, powerful dogs who embrace the qualities of high activity, exuberance, friendliness, trainability, and intelligence. They excel at hunting and running as well as on hiking trails, rescue missions, and therapy sessions. Some cons are highly destructive behavior when bored, the potential for hip dysplasia, and hyperactivity. An average Labrador puppy costs around $700.

Jack Russell Terrier

A dog does not have to be large to serve as a good companion for an athletic man. Jack Russells are highly energetic, tireless, clever, and relentless. Whatever you may have in store for your daily exercise routine, Jack Russells can keep up. Despite being shorter than many working dogs, Jack Russell Terriers are fast runners and nimble athletes that excel at agility. These terriers are not great for everyone; the Jack tends to dig, bark moderately, and can snap at small children. Jack Russell Terriers are independently minded and may ignore their owners’ commands at times. Jack Russells are low maintenance except in training. They also tend to remain remarkably healthy. Puppies can cost as much as $2500 with the average purchase price around $1500.

Border Collie

Gifted with exceptional intelligence and intense focus, border collies are ideal for joggers. They pack power and stamina into their lithe and medium frames. Border collies are also great for agility events and herding trials. A border collie’s work ethic and fluid gait make it an ideal working dog when the job requires long hours. A puppy can cost about $700. Border collies, like many herding dogs, are not great for small children. Other drawbacks are extensive exercise requirements and a constant demand for attention and entertainment.

Weimaraner

An ethically bred Weimaraner could cost you an average of $700 and champion dogs are worth close to $8000 and higher. Weimaraners are often used as bird dogs, like Labs, but can also hunt small and large game. Simultaneously elegant and powerful, Weimaraners are perfect for people who are constantly on the go. They are intelligent, trainable, and willing to please. However, they can also be destructive and hyperactive. They have a high prey drive which may not go well with small animals and young children. The main health issues to watch for are hip dysplasia, von Willebrand’s disease (a clotting disorder) and bloat. Fitness comes naturally to Weimaraners because of their high energy. Keeping their focus can be moderately challenging.

American Staffordshire Terrier

Among the strongest of all dogs for its size, this dog is an excellent symbol of athleticism in both appearance and ability. Staffordshire terriers have determination and loyalty. Despite its muscular build, the American Staffordshire is agile and quick. Pure-bred American Staffordshire pups average about $2,000. Their qualities as all-around family dogs and active companions make them great for athletes. Like most terriers, Staffordshires can harbor a strong prey drive and may be aggressive towards other dogs. Nevertheless, well-socialized Staffordshire terriers can be seen romping at dog parks and participating in agility trials and other canine competitions. They are healthy but can suffer from retinal atrophy (eye degenerative disease), elbow dysplasia, and hypothyroidism (low thyroid output).

When considering a dog, it is wise to take into consideration the costs, desirable and problematic traits, and compatibility with the activity level of the household. Athletic men may gravitate towards certain breeds because they complement some of their own qualities of physical fitness and vigor. Regardless of which breed you may be drawn to, any of the dogs on this list are sure to be a perfect companion for you as an athletic man.

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