With 8.9 million UK households owning a dog and more people than ever searching for alternative exercises methods, could our canine friend also be the perfect exercise partner?  

Athletic apparel retailer lululemon analysed a variety of metrics, including the cost of each breed alongside the types of run they would be suited to, as well as the dog’s temperament, size, life span, friendliness, trainability, popularity and living requirements.

Alongside this, they worked with City Dog Expert founder Kimberly Marie Freeman who gave her top tips for working out with your dog safely.  

Golden Retrievers are not only one of the most popular dog breeds in the UK with an incredible 8,653 registered in the UK in 2020, but their friendly, intelligent, and energetic temperament also makes them ideal running companions. These loyal dogs enjoy long and steady runs and are some of most trainable of all of the dog breeds. 

The Golden Retrievers’ friendly attitude towards strangers is a bonus for those running in crowded areas, where there will be interactions with other runners and dog walkers. Costing an average of just £740, they are also one of the more affordable dog breeds, although their unequivocal devotion is priceless.  

Not only does running help maintain your dog’s weight and improve muscle tone, but it also provides mental stimulation and an outlet for their energy. As certain breeds can tolerate different conditions and more strenuous exercise than others, it’s important to be mindful of your dog’s capabilities. Always have your veterinarian perform a physical check-up to ensure running is a safe activity for your dog prior to starting. 

You can find the full story here: https://www.lululemon.co.uk/en-gb/c/community/hubs/run/the-best-dog-breeds-for-running