Jodi Helmer

Parson Russell terriers are active, intelligent dogs with a long history as fearless fox hunters. The breed makes an excellent companion for experienced dog owners willing to provide lots of training and exercise.

A German shepherd and poodle mix, the shepadoodle is an intelligent, athletic dog. He needs an active family and time spent outside to be happy and healthy.

A Labrador retriever and border collie mix, the borador is a high-energy dog who's smart and sporty. Learn more about living with this active breed.

Entlebucher mountain dogs are energetic workers and enthusiastic companions. The breed, while rare in the U.S., is a great fit for active pet parents who want a smart dog that loves to be on the go.

A cross between a German shepherd and a Siberian husky, the Gerberian shepsky is (typically) a blue-eyed beauty with an independent nature and an exercise routine worthy of an Olympic athlete. Learn more about living with this high-energy mixed breed.

With their cute looks and self-confident attitude, doxiepoos are small and spirited dogs. Learn more about living with these dachshund and poodle mixes.

Miniature bull terriers are intelligent, energetic dogs with personalities that match their distinctive appearances. These little dogs weigh under 30 pounds but are full of affection and curiosity.

Briards are active dogs that will win your affection with their work ethic and rugged good looks. These large, long-haired dogs are loyal, affectionate, and confident.

Miniature bull terriers are intelligent, energetic dogs with personalities that match their distinctive appearances. These little dogs weigh under 30 pounds but are full of affection and curiosity.

Briards are active dogs that will win your affection with their work ethic and rugged good looks. These large, long-haired dogs are loyal, affectionate, and confident.

Bearded collies are active and friendly. The herding breed excels on the farm, but families love the long-haired dogs thanks to their affectionate natures, playful personalities, and easygoing attitude. 

As world-class sprinters, playful Ibizan hounds have energy to spare and do best in homes where they receive plenty of exercise and mental stimulation to suit their on-the-go personalities. 

Irish water spaniels are a rare breed with A+ personalities. These sweet, laid-back dogs have low-shedding coats, big brains, and affectionate natures, making them wonderful companions.

Manchester terriers are athletic, energetic, and devoted dogs. With sufficient exercise and mental stimulation, these intelligent, spirited pups make great family pets. 

Miniature American shepherds are active, intelligent dogs that love spending time with their family. The herding breed is best in homes with older children and owners devoted to providing the exercise and training they need to thrive.

Patterdale terriers are small dogs with big energy. Bred as working farm dogs, these compact canines are happiest when there's a job to do, especially one that requires physical stamina and smarts.

The Peekapoo, a cross between a miniature or toy poodle and a Pekingese, is an adorable, affectionate lapdog. Although the “designer” dogs are small in size, the breed is known for his big bark.

The Alaskan klee kai is an active, intelligent, and loyal breed who loves spending time outdoors with her family. Learn more about living with these pint-sized huskies. 

Though bred as a hunting dog, the wirehaired pointing griffon has evolved into a beloved companion thanks to his friendly demeanor, high intelligence, adorable scruffiness, and low-shedding coat.

Chiweenies are small dogs with big personalities. Their penchant for barking and need to be the center of attention can make them a handful, but with proper training they’ll be a lap dog for life. 

Bred as working dogs, Australian kelpies still love being put to work whether their task is herding sheep, catching a ball, or making it to the finish line of an agility course. They require lots of exercise and mental stimulation and make great pets for active families who want energetic, affectionate, and loyal companions.