
Top 10 Dog Sports and Activities for You and Your Dog
, by Michael van Wassem, 6 min reading time

, by Michael van Wassem, 6 min reading time
There are countless ways to stay active with your dog and strengthen your bond. Whether you have a large, energetic dog or a smaller, calmer one, there's always a sport or activity that's right for you. Here are the top 10 dog sports and activities, along with the products you'll need and which dog breeds will enjoy them most!
Agility is an active sport in which dogs run, jump, and crawl through tunnels on an obstacle course. It's great for dogs with lots of energy and intelligence.
Suitable for: Medium to large, athletic dogs such as Border Collies, Australian Shepherds, and Jack Russells.
Requirements:
Flyball is a competitive team sport in which dogs run over obstacles to retrieve a ball from a machine and bring it back as quickly as possible.
Suitable for: Medium to large, energetic dogs such as Labradors, Golden Retrievers, and Staffordshire Bull Terriers.
Requirements:
CaniCross is running with your dog, where you form a team. The dog runs ahead of you and helps pull you forward. It's a great activity for active people and dogs.
Suitable for: Large, powerful dogs such as Huskies, German Shepherds and Vizslas.
Requirements:
Doga, or dog yoga, is a relaxing activity where you and your dog can stretch and relax together. It helps build trust and strengthens the bond.
Suitable for: Small to medium-sized dogs, such as French Bulldogs, Pugs and Cocker Spaniels, but also for calm large dogs such as Bernese Mountain Dogs.
Requirements:
Trekking sports, or mushing, are ideal for dogs that enjoy pulling, such as sled dogs. This activity can be done with a sled in winter or a cart in summer.
Suitable for: Large working dogs, such as Huskies, Alaskan Malamutes and Samoyeds.
Requirements:
Tracking is a great mental and physical challenge where your dog follows a scent trail. It is particularly useful for dogs with a strong sense of smell.
Suitable for: Dogs with a good sense of smell, such as Beagles, German Shepherds, and Bloodhounds.
Requirements:
Frisbee is a fun activity where your dog catches and returns the frisbee. It requires speed and agility from your dog.
Suitable for: Medium to large, active dogs such as Border Collies, Australian Shepherds, and Staffordshire Bull Terriers.
Requirements:
Bouldering with your dog is a unique combination of rock climbing for you and adventurous hiking for your dog, often in rugged nature.
Suitable for: Small to medium-sized dogs with a lot of energy, such as Jack Russells, Border Collies and Terriers.
Requirements:
Swimming is a great activity for dogs who enjoy water. It's especially good for dogs with joint problems because it's low-impact.
Suitable for: Dogs that love water, such as Labradors, Golden Retrievers, and Portuguese Water Dogs.
Requirements:
Hoopers is a dog sport where dogs run through hoops and tunnels without jumping. It's a low-impact sport, perfect for dogs that shouldn't jump much or for older dogs.
Suitable for: Small to large dogs, including senior dogs or dogs with joint problems, such as Cocker Spaniels, Poodles and Labradors.
Requirements:
Whatever activity you choose, the most important thing is that you and your dog have fun! These sports not only help keep your dog physically active, but also offer great mental stimulation.