11 Best Large Dog Breeds For People Who Love Hiking & Camping

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Hiking and camping are always more fun with a loyal, energetic, and adventurous companion by your side. If you’re looking for a four-legged partner who will eagerly explore trails, climb mountains, and keep you company by the campfire, some dog breeds are better suited for the job than others. The best hiking and camping dogs are athletic, have great stamina, and can handle various terrains and weather conditions. These large dog breeds will be right there with you, ready to embrace every adventure.

Labrador Retriever

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Few breeds love adventure as much as a Labrador Retriever. Labs have boundless energy, excellent endurance, and a natural love for water, making them perfect companions for hiking trails that include streams, lakes, or even muddy paths. They are incredibly friendly and social, making them great hiking partners if you enjoy meeting other outdoor enthusiasts. Labs are also highly trainable and eager to please, so they’ll happily stick by your side, respond to commands, and even help carry some of your gear in a doggy backpack. Just be ready for lots of excitement—they’ll likely greet every squirrel, bird, and fellow hiker with a wagging tail and big enthusiasm.

German Shepherd

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German Shepherds are intelligent, strong, and always up for an adventure, making them fantastic hiking and camping buddies. They are highly trainable and protective, which can be reassuring when you’re exploring remote areas. Their endurance and athleticism allow them to handle long hikes and rugged terrain with ease. German Shepherds are also known for their loyalty, so they’ll always keep a watchful eye on you and your surroundings. If you want a hiking dog that’s both a fearless trail partner and a loving best friend, this breed will not disappoint.

Siberian Husky

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Huskies were bred for pulling sleds in harsh conditions, so they have stamina, strength, and an undeniable love for the outdoors. These dogs thrive in cool weather and are excellent companions for long hikes, especially in mountainous regions. Huskies are independent and love exploring, so keeping them on a leash is a good idea unless you’re in a safe, enclosed area. They also have a playful side, so don’t be surprised if your Husky turns a simple hike into an all-out adventure with zoomies, random digging, or excited howls at the moon while you’re camping.

Bernese Mountain Dog

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If you’re looking for a gentle giant who loves nature, the Bernese Mountain Dog is a fantastic choice. Originally bred for working in the Swiss Alps, these dogs are built for endurance and are happiest when exploring the great outdoors. They have a calm and affectionate nature, making them wonderful companions for more relaxed hikes and camping trips. Berners are also strong enough to carry their gear, and they’ll gladly trot along beside you as you soak in the scenery. Just be mindful of warm weather—these fluffy pups do best in cooler climates.

Golden Retriever

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Golden Retrievers are as enthusiastic about hiking as they are about everything else in life. Their friendly and adaptable nature makes them excellent outdoor companions, and their boundless energy ensures they’ll keep up on long hikes. Goldens love to explore and often find joy in every stick, rock, or stream along the way. They are also great around other hikers and dogs, making them perfect if you enjoy social outdoor adventures. Just be ready for a lot of wagging tails and possibly a few mud-covered golden fur coats by the end of the day.

Alaskan Malamute

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Like the Siberian Husky, the Alaskan Malamute was bred for strength and endurance in tough conditions. These dogs thrive on adventure and are happiest when exploring the great outdoors. They excel on long-distance hikes and can handle rough terrain with ease. Malamutes are also incredibly strong, making them great candidates for carrying gear. They have an independent streak, so training and a firm leadership style are important. If you’re hiking in colder weather, your Malamute will be right in their element, ready to power through the trails like an experienced mountain explorer.

Border Collie

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Border Collies are known for their intelligence, agility, and high energy levels. While they are technically medium-sized dogs, their endurance, speed, and love for physical activity make them excellent hiking partners. They can easily navigate tough terrain and are always eager to work, whether it’s herding, fetching, or simply sticking by your side. Border Collies are also extremely obedient when properly trained, making them a great option for hikers who need a reliable and responsive trail companion. Just be sure to keep them mentally stimulated—otherwise, they might find creative ways to entertain themselves, like herding you down the trail!

Doberman Pinscher

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Dobermans are sleek, strong, and highly intelligent, making them fantastic hiking and camping companions. They have excellent stamina and can handle long treks with ease. Dobermans are also naturally protective, which adds a sense of security when you’re out in the wilderness. Despite their tough appearance, they are affectionate and bond deeply with their owners. As long as they get proper training and exercise, Dobermans will happily stick by your side on every outdoor adventure.

Newfoundland

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The Newfoundland might not be the fastest hiking companion, but their strength, endurance, and love for water make them a fantastic choice for outdoor lovers. These gentle giants are natural swimmers and thrive in areas with lakes and rivers. Newfoundlands are also incredibly loyal and protective, ensuring that you always have a dependable and loving companion on your hikes and camping trips. Their thick coats make them more suited to cooler climates, so they may not be the best hiking buddies for hot summer adventures.

Weimaraner

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Weimaraners are built for speed and endurance, making them excellent hiking companions for those who love long, challenging trails. Their sleek bodies and boundless energy allow them to cover long distances without tiring. Weimaraners are also highly intelligent and thrive on having a job to do, so they will enjoy hiking as an activity that keeps both their bodies and minds engaged. These dogs bond closely with their humans and will stick to you like glue on any outdoor adventure. Just be ready for an energetic, enthusiastic, and slightly goofy hiking buddy!

Irish Setter

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The Irish Setter is a high-energy breed that thrives on adventure and companionship. With their athletic build and love for physical activity, these dogs make excellent hiking partners. They are fast, agile, and always ready to explore, making them great for long-distance hikes. Irish Setters are also incredibly friendly and social, so they’ll enjoy meeting other hikers and dogs along the way. Their playful personalities make every hike fun, but be prepared for a bit of silliness—they may suddenly decide to chase a butterfly or leap into a puddle just for the thrill of it!

The Trail Never Ends When You Have A Hiking Dog

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If you love the great outdoors, having one of these large, adventurous dog breeds by your side will make every hike and camping trip even better. Whether they’re bounding up the trail, splashing in a stream, or guarding the tent at night, these dogs are the ultimate adventure companions. Just be warned—once you bring a hiking-loving dog into your life, you may never have a lazy weekend again. So lace up your boots, grab some dog treats, and hit the trails with your new best friend!