High-energy and working breeds are known for their intelligence, athleticism, and intense work ethic. These traits make them superior performers in dog sports and service work, but they also require a significant commitment from their owners. This guide is for owners of dogs like Border Collies, Australian Shepherds, German Shepherds, Huskies, Spaniels, and other active breeds that need more than a simple walk around the block.
High-Drive Instincts and Personality
A high-energy dog’s most defining characteristic is its drive, which can cause them to chase anything that moves. This can include nipping at the heels, hands, or faces of children, other pets, joggers, or even cars and bicycles. Without proper training and an outlet for this energy, these behaviors can become problematic and even dangerous.
Many working breeds are also very quirky and can be highly sensitive to their environment. They may react intensely to sounds like the toaster, a flickering light, or a running vacuum cleaner. They are known for staring intently at objects, or even people, and can become obsessive-compulsive about a job, such as demanding that you throw a ball endlessly. Never use a laser pointer with a working breed. When you stop using it, they often redirect their obsessive searching to simple reflections of light from a watch or smartphone or even shadows. This obsessive behavior often will not go away without intense training and constant redirection. It can be damaging to your relationship and their quality of life.
Are You Ready for This?
Honesty about your lifestyle is crucial. While these dogs are incredibly smart and eager to please, their high energy and intensity make them unsuitable for most people. If you don’t provide them with a job to do, they will invent their own—and you probably won’t be happy with the results.
A High-Energy Dog IS NOT For You If:
- You don’t want to spend a significant amount of time doing “dog stuff” daily.
- You don’t like going outside in all weather.
- You have a busy work schedule that a dog can’t participate in.
- You are a “couch potato.”
- You want a dog that can only take short walks around the block.
- You expect a dog to stay alone in the house and backyard for long periods.
- You care deeply about your landscaped yard or expensive furniture.
- You want to go to the bathroom alone.
A High-Energy Dog IS For You If:
- You want a dog to do everything with, from hiking to dog sports.
- You like to spend a significant amount of time outdoors every day.
- You want an athletic dog that can excel in any dog sport.
- You don’t mind being outsmarted by a dog.
- You want a dog that makes you think and keeps you on your toes.
- You are willing to accept a full-time family member.
Training and Exercise are Non-Negotiable
A high-energy dog’s mind is as active as its body, and both need to be exercised daily. Without proper mental and physical stimulation, they can become destructive and irritable.
- Physical Exercise: Regular, vigorous exercise is an absolute necessity. A leash walk is simply not enough. These dogs need to run hard and off-leash until they are tired. This could be daily running, a long hike, long games of fetch or Frisbee, or participating in dog sports like agility.
- Mental Exercise: These dogs love to learn new things and will get frustrated without training. It is crucial to teach them more than just basic commands like “sit” and “stay.” Teaching them how to turn their “off button” on and relax is just as important as teaching them how to work.
Confinement and Safety
Left alone for even short periods, a bored or frustrated working dog can become destructive, tearing up carpets or chewing through walls. They are also incredibly agile and determined, capable of climbing or digging under fences.
- Supervision: Never leave these dogs unattended around children, cats, or other small animals, as their drive can lead to nipping or chasing.
- Safe Spaces: We recommend providing a safe, secure, enclosed area for the dog to stay when you are away from home, such as a crate or a securely fenced yard.