13 Adventurous Dog Breeds That Make Great Campmates

Labrador Retriever is basically the Swiss Army knife of outdoor dogs. Friendly, energetic, and always down for a splash in the lake, Labs are easygoing enough for campground vibes and athletic enough for long hikes. Their water-resistant coats and love of swimming make them naturals at riverside campsites, and they’re polite enough to handle meeting other campers or their dogs. Labs are eager to please and quick learners, so they’re easy to manage in new environments. Just make sure your marshmallows are stored high—Labs consider them fair game.

Australian Cattle Dog

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Australian Cattle Dogs were bred to work hard and go the distance, which makes them excellent companions for rugged outdoor adventures. These dogs are intelligent, determined, and incredibly agile, perfect for long hikes or challenging terrain. They thrive with active owners who love exploring off the beaten path. While they tend to be loyal to the point of shadowing you, their independent streak makes them great problem solvers in unfamiliar environments. If you want a dog who will carry their own gear and possibly yours, the ACD is up to the task.

Siberian Husky

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Built for extreme conditions and powered by boundless energy, the Siberian Husky is made for adventure. These snow-loving nomads enjoy cooler temperatures, wide open spaces, and long treks. While their wanderlust means they should always be leashed or closely monitored at camp, their endurance and spirit make them ideal companions for more remote and active camping trips. Just be ready for plenty of howling at night—it’s not a ghost, it’s your Husky practicing their campground vocals.

German Shorthaired Pointer

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German Shorthaired Pointers are sleek, powerful, and endlessly ready to go. They’re natural athletes who thrive in active outdoor settings and love sniffing, running, and exploring every inch of the campsite. Whether you’re hiking a ridge or playing fetch by a lake, a GSP will match your pace and add an extra level of joy to your trip. Their strong bond with their humans means they’ll stay close without needing constant supervision. Just don’t expect them to sleep in late—they’re up with the sunrise, ready for round two.

Border Collie

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If your idea of relaxing involves scaling trails and chasing sunrise views, the Border Collie will be your ideal co-pilot. These dogs are brilliant and athletic, making them the overachievers of the dog world. They’re happiest with a job or task, so camping offers an endless list of things to “manage”—like keeping squirrels in line or helping you unpack gear. Border Collies love mental and physical challenges, so they’ll thrive on any wilderness itinerary you throw at them. Bonus: They’ll probably organize the tent pegs alphabetically if you give them enough time.

Bernese Mountain Dog

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Bernese Mountain Dog is a gentle giant with a love for cool weather, mountain air, and peaceful forests. Originally bred for draft work in the Swiss Alps, these dogs are ideally suited for calm, scenic camping trips in cooler climates. They’re not as hyper as some adventure breeds, but they’ll happily trot alongside you on hikes or lounge by the fire like a furry throw rug. Their friendly disposition and steady demeanor make them a hit with fellow campers and kids alike. Be warned—they shed enough to fill your sleeping bag, twice.

Vizsla

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If you’re looking for a camping partner with style, stamina, and a severe case of Velcro-dog syndrome, the Vizsla checks every box. These sleek, rust-colored dynamos are affectionate, athletic, and always eager to stick close to their humans. Whether you’re trail running, setting up camp, or cooking dinner over the fire, your Vizsla will be right by your side, possibly supervising every single move. Their high energy levels mean they’ll need a lot of activity, but they reward your effort with unwavering devotion and snuggles when the sun goes down.

Rhodesian Ridgeback

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Originally bred to hunt lions, Rhodesian Ridgebacks are built for adventure and bravery. While they’re often reserved with strangers, they are incredibly loyal and protective of their humans, making them great security blankets on overnight trips. They’re athletic and love to run, but they also know how to chill, making them perfect for high-energy days followed by peaceful evenings. Ridgebacks have short coats and are relatively low maintenance, but they’ll need a cozy sleeping spot unless you want them curled up in your sleeping bag.

Alaskan Malamute

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If your idea of a weekend well spent includes snowshoeing or cold-weather camping, the Alaskan Malamute will be in heaven. These powerful, weatherproof dogs are built for hauling, trekking, and thriving in icy conditions. They’re pack-oriented and love companionship, making them great teammates on multi-day trips. Malamutes are smart, but also stubborn, so training and a sense of humor are a must. Fair warning: they can dig holes big enough to hide a tent, so don’t leave them unsupervised near your gear.

Golden Retriever

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Golden Retrievers are the ultimate “up-for-anything” adventure dogs. Whether you’re hiking, canoeing, or just chilling by the fire, they’re thrilled to be part of the action. Friendly, trainable, and enthusiastic about life in general, Goldens adapt easily to new surroundings and meet other campers with a tail wag and a goofy grin. They’re strong swimmers and love outdoor play, making them perfect for lakeside getaways. Just bring a towel—you’ll need it after every swim, every puddle, and every mudhole they discover.

Australian Shepherd

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Australian Shepherds are brainy, bouncy, and built for outdoor life. These working dogs are full of energy and happiest when they have space to explore and a trail to follow. They’re also fiercely devoted and excellent at staying close, making them solid off-leash companions in safe areas. Camping with an Aussie is like taking your own personal tour guide—just be prepared to match their pace and appreciate their need to herd the group (including your cooler). You may come home with a dog who insists on organizing your living room.

Portuguese Water Dog

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Originally bred to help fishermen, Portuguese Water Dogs are athletic, intelligent, and—unsurprisingly—love water. If your adventures include lake dives, beach camping, or kayaking, this breed is more than ready to dive right in. They’re strong swimmers, obedient, and energetic without being overbearing. Their curly coats are low-shedding, which makes cleanup after a weekend trip a little easier. Plus, you’ll have a four-legged lifeguard ready to jump in the water before you even finish lacing your boots.

Belgian Tervuren

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Belgian Tervuren is an intelligent, high-energy breed that thrives in outdoor environments. These elegant dogs were initially bred for herding and are known for their agility, alertness, and strong bond with their owners. Tervurens excel at hiking, trail running, and exploring new terrains, all while keeping a close watch on their human companion. They’re naturally protective and highly trainable, making them excellent off-grid watchdogs as well. Just don’t be surprised if they try to organize your camping gear—they’re just being helpful.

The Campfire Crew You Didn’t Know You Needed Has Four Legs and Serious Trail Cred

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Whether you’re hiking a mountain or roasting hot dogs in a hammock, having the right dog by your side turns an excellent camping trip into an unforgettable one. These breeds bring energy, loyalty, and enough curiosity to rival your own. They’re built to explore, happy to rough it, and always down to chase a stick or nap in a patch of sun. Just make sure you pack their treats, because let’s face it—these dogs might love nature, but they definitely love snacks even more.