Dogs, like humans, come in all different shapes and sizes. When we look to choose our furry companions, similar to looking for a human partner, we find ourselves attracted to a particular look and personality.
But it is not all about looks, but also the suitability and capability to accompany us, humans, in our active pursuits and adventures. Long-legged dog breeds are often the more active breeds. They make good running companions, although proper training is a must.
Long-Legged dogs also make great hunters due to being fast and agile on their paws. Of course, playing ball and generally goofing about is also a load of fun with these energetic long-legged creatures.
It is believed that dogs have evolved long legs primarily for speed and then for jumping and running up hills or traveling fast over uneven terrain. Generally, the long legs are paired with sleek, slim bodies, which afford them the agility and stamina to cover a lot of ground in quick-smart time.
7 Long Legged Dog Breeds
1. Great Dane
Great Danes have long legs for sure, but they also have a large body. Also known as the German Mastiff, they have descended from hunting dogs. Great Danes are gentle giants with big hearts.
They make great pets due to this peaceful and patient nature. With their short, sleek hair, they are low maintenance regarding grooming. Importantly, they do require daily exercise. Great Danes have a high tendency to drool but a low tendency to bark.
Weight: 100 to 200 pounds
Height: 26 to 34 inches
2. Scottish Deerhound
These sighthounds are one of the tallest breeds. As their names suggest, they were initially bred for deer hunting. The Scottish Deerhounds love their owners and are gentle, polite, and loyal.
They have a wiry coat, so they do require regular brushing as well as the occasional bath. These large dogs are very active, so that many regular exercises will be on the cards for any prospective owner.
They do require an owner with the strength to handle them and are not ideal for the inexperienced. A large space is needed for these hounds.
Weight: 75 to 110 pounds
Height: 28 to 32 inches
3. Akbash
Initially used for guarding livestock in the hills of Turkey, these dogs are very independent, making them not the most comfortable dog to train.
They look beautiful with their white/cream-colored coats. They are territorial and very protective of their human families.
Because of this, they make excellent guard dogs but don’t expect them to be quiet.
Weight: 75 to 140 pounds
Height: 27 – 34 inches
4. Afghan Hound
Afghan hounds are one of the oldest breeds of sighthounds and originate from Afghanistan. Considered high maintenance with their long, silky, flowing hair, they require constant grooming.
Their hair grows continuously, so it does need trimming, much like human hair. They carry themselves very proudly but are reportedly not the most comfortable dog to train because they can be stubborn and aloof.
They do make for very loyal and affectionate pets, but any potential owners must be prepared to allow grooming and regular exercise plenty of time.
Weight: 45 to 60 pounds
Height: 24 to 29 inches
5. Irish Wolfhound
Originally these dogs were fierce wolf hunters and therefore had a strong hunting instinct. This is the tallest of dog breeds and is a type of sighthound. They require a lot of exercises as well as mental stimulation due to their high level of intelligence.
The Irish Wolfhound will make a great pet as, despite their large frame, they are gentle and calm and love human company. They make great sports dogs in tracking and agility.
One piece of advice to a potential owner would be to ensure you have a high fence as these dogs are large and can jump!
Weight: 105 to 180 pounds
Height: 30 to 35 inches
6. Borzoi
The Borzoi is very similar to the familiar greyhound, except they have a long shaggy coat. They are elegant dogs that can run at incredible speeds.
They descended from working dogs in Central Asia who migrated to Russia, where the Russian aristocracy then bred them.
With their long coats, they do require regular brushing.
These sensitive family-friendly dogs enjoy a gentle activity rather than the rough-and-tumble sometimes provided by children. They do need companionship, so they do not like to be left alone for long periods.
Weight: 55 to 105 pounds
Height: 26 to 32 inches
7. South Russian Ovcharka
This Russian dog is a sheepdog from Ukraine. With his long, bushy, white hair, he can adapt to most weather conditions.
If not appropriately socialized when young, they can show aggression towards strangers and can be quite possessive as independent dogs.
Appropriately trained; however, they make great family pets and are a very loyal undemanding pet.
These breeds also need a regular exercise routine if not used as a working dog. Fences are also a must-have for these dogs.
Weight: 108 to 110 pounds
Height: 25 to 35 inches
Bottom Line
Long-legged dogs were bred typically as hunting or guard dogs. Most of these larger dogs will prefer to be where they have plenty of room to run about, but as long as they receive plenty of exercises and are with their families, they will thrive anywhere.
It seems apparent that any long-legged dog requires daily exercising and also mental stimulation to avoid boredom. The exercise for these dogs does not necessarily mean long hours of vigorous training but rather some gentle walking.
They can be susceptible to injury with these long legs if too much rough playing or long-distance running.
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