The 10 most energetic dog breeds

This ranking uses the energy rating (from 1 to 5) given in our breed profiles. Breeds with the same rating are ordered by trainability, then alphabetically. High-energy breeds need plenty of daily exercise and mental stimulation.

No. 1 — Australian KelpieEnergy: 5/5A light, tireless herding dog, the Australian Kelpie can work for hours in the heat. It needs a real job.
No. 2 — Australian ShepherdEnergy: 5/5Clever, playful and tireless, the Australian Shepherd is a herding dog, often with odd-coloured eyes, ideal for very active families.
No. 3 — Belgian GroenendaelEnergy: 5/5An elegant long-haired black Belgian Shepherd, the Groenendael is lively, sensitive and devoted to its family. It needs plenty of activity.
No. 4 — Belgian MalinoisEnergy: 5/5A tireless, highly intelligent athlete, the Malinois is the working dog par excellence. It thrives with an active, experienced owner.
No. 5 — Belgian TervurenEnergy: 5/5A long-haired, fawn Belgian Shepherd with black-tipped coat, the Tervuren combines elegance, intelligence and energy. It thrives with an active family.
No. 6 — Border CollieEnergy: 5/5Often considered the most trainable dog of all, the Border Collie is a tireless herding dog that needs a real job.
No. 7 — BrittanyEnergy: 5/5The smallest French pointing dog is also one of the most popular: the Brittany is lively, affectionate and passionate about hunting.
No. 8 — Dutch ShepherdEnergy: 5/5Recognisable by its brindle coat, the Dutch Shepherd is a versatile, hard-working dog with great stamina and a strong bond with its owner.
No. 9 — Hungarian VizslaEnergy: 5/5An elegant, toast-coloured pointing dog, the Vizsla is gentle, sensitive and extremely attached to its family: a true 'velcro dog'.
No. 10 — Australian Cattle DogEnergy: 5/5Tough, tireless and utterly loyal, the Australian Cattle Dog is a working dog built for heat and wide open spaces.