Looking for a fur baby that could run Victoria’s Secret runway?
How about canines whose legs are longer than a giraffe’s neck?
For whatever reason, you may have…
I’ve got a list of dog breeds with long legs you can use to choose your next furry companion.
Continue reading to discover:
- 15 amazing dog breeds with long legs.
- A brief overview of why some dogs have lengthy limbs.
- Possible health problems dogs with long legs might face in the future.
- And this is just the beginning…
Table of contents
Part 1: Small dogs with long legs
#1: Beagle
Beagles are one of the most common dog breeds in America. According to the AKC, this dog breed ranks 7th in a 2020 study they did.
Most Beagles stand between 13 to 15 inches (33 to 38 cm.) tall. They’re pretty small and light, weighing 20 to 30 pounds (9 to 14 kg.)
Beagles also live somewhere between 10 to 15 years.
Temperament and adaptability
This dog breed is also highly sociable and loves to go out with their pack. Because of their characteristics, Beagles make excellent hunting dogs.
Generally, this dog breed is adored by their fur parents because they ooze happiness. They’re easygoing and are a good choice for those looking for a family dog.
Kids are also relatively safe with this canine breed.
If you want a Beagle as a furry companion, expect that you’re going to take them out a lot. This dog breed requires lots of exercise because they come from the working variety.
You’ll also need to stimulate them intellectually with toys and other activities.
Maintenance
A Beagle’s coat is short and has a medium level of shedding. If you are allergic, you might wanna look for other dog breeds that can cater to your condition.
This dog breed also doesn’t drool a lot. It’s a good thing especially if you’re a clean freak. because regular wiping isn’t required.
Health tests to give
These are medical exams that are recommended by the NBC for Beagles:
- Hip evaluation.
- MLS DNA test.
- Ophthalmologist exam.
#2: Border Terrier
Another popular dog breed in the U.S. is the Border Terrier.
Standing at around 12 to 15 inches (30 to 38 cm.) this dog is relatively small.
A typical Border Terrier’s weight clocks in at 13 -15.5 pounds (6 to 7 kg.) for males. And for females, they usually weigh 11.5 to 14 pounds (5 to 6 kg.)
With these stats, Border Terriers really make good lapdogs.
Temperament and adaptability
This dog breed is very affectionate to their family and members of their pack. Want a furry cuddle buddy? You should consider adopting a Border Terrier.
They’re also excellent with kids since they’re very sociable. Border Terriers belong to the working dog breed and love playing outdoors.
Canines in this breed also get along with other dogs well.
However, fur parents need to watch out for their hunting instincts. They’re going to run after squirrels and you might have to catch up to them, too.
These canines are also easily adaptable to city life since they’re bred to be country dogs. Just make sure they still get tons of exercise.
Maintenance
Border Terriers have double coats and shed seasonally. When it’s their time to shed, you’ll be needing to pick hair from your couches.
Although, brushing a Border Terrier’s hair once to twice a week can be helpful. It would be helpful if you use a rake to remove their excess hair.
The Maxpower Planet Pet Grooming Brush from Amazon is one that many dog parents opt for.
Nail clipping is also a must for this dog breed. Good thing is, they don’t drool a lot so you have one less cleaning activity to do.
Note: Border Terriers have a low tolerance for hot weather. So limit their outdoor activities if the temperature gets too hot. Anything above 85 degrees Fahrenheit (29 degrees Celsius) is dangerous for them.
Research shows that out of dogs who experienced heatstroke, 14.18% died from it. Keep your Border Terrier cool by keeping their exercise indoors when it’s hot out.
Health tests to give
These are medical exams that are recommended by the NBC for Border Terriers:
- Patella test.
- Hip health exam.
- Cardiac health test.
- Ophthalmologist evaluation.
#3: Lakeland Terrier
The Lakeland Terrier is a working dog breed designed to be with farmers. They help them shoo away foxes that usually steal sheep from farms.
This breed got its name from the Lake District in England. Lakeland Terriers are sometimes referred to as a “big dog in a small package.”
Most Lakeland Terriers weigh in at 17 pounds (8 kg). And their height is between 14 to 15 inches (36 to 38 cm.)
Temperament and adaptability
Lakeland Terriers are smart dogs. And they learn quickly when they get proper training.
However, they don’t like doing the same task – repetitive training isn’t for them.
This dog breed is very affectionate towards their family and is pretty good with kids. As long as fur parents socialize them early on, they can be good companions.
If you plan on adopting a Lakeland Terrier, you’ll need to introduce them to other dogs. It’s not that hard for them to be okay around other canines. But they need an adjustment period at times.
This dog breed is also a bit playful and will engage in tug-of-war and other games with you. Lakeland Terriers are also pretty quick in adapting to the weather of your area.
Since this breed is intelligent creatures, they need activities that stimulate their minds. They are usually not hyperactive canines but it’d be beneficial if you let them run around.
If you live in a two-storey building, the better for them.
Maintenance
Lakeland Terriers usually have short, wiry double coats and will need hand plucking. Good thing is, their hair mostly stays in their bodies and doesn’t shed as much.
If their hair gets clipped regularly, they show soft, loose, curly hair that’s nice to the touch. Fur parents of this dog breed should brush their hair once a week.
This way they won’t have matting and will stay away from loose hair.
Health tests to give
Lakeland Terriers have very few breed-specific illnesses. But despite this, it’s still advisable to keep their hygiene top-notch.
Brushing their teeth regularly and having their ears cleaned would be helpful.
#4: Miniature Pinscher
Get the crown for this dog breed. Why? Because Miniature Pinschers are considered to be the “King of Toys.”
They are pretty popular in the U.S. ranking at #77 in AKC’s top dogs of 2020.
Standing between 10 to 12.5 inches (25 to 32 cm.), the Miniature Pinscher really is “mini”. Their weight is also a match to their small stature weighing no more than 10 pounds (5 kg).
The Miniature Pinscher will also be a good furry companion to you for 12-16 years.
Temperament and adaptability
According to AKC, this dog breed has a rating of 3 out of 5 when it comes to children. This means they’re pretty tolerant of how kids act around them.
Miniature Pinschers also get along with other dogs really well and are sociable. Because of this characteristic, this dog breed easily shows signs of trust and love. Especially towards their family.
This dog breed is somehow easy to train. However, they have really high energy levels and can drain out fur parents who are not up to the task.
Miniature Pinschers also have the tendency to bark and howl at certain people. And sometimes even at animals passing your yard.
If you want this dog breed in your family, get ready to stimulate them mentally. They need lots of intellectually challenging tasks to keep them healthy.
Maintenance
This dog breed is pretty easy to maintain and groom. Their coats are short, hard, and smooth. Although, they might shed from time to time.
Using a hound glove will help them keep their coats shiny and healthy. And this is one good way to build a bond with this pooch.
Keep in mind that you’ll also need to trim their nails to keep them far from discomfort.
Health tests to give
Miniature Pinschers are usually healthy dogs and won’t need much looking out for. However, some breeders do suggest getting exams for the following:
- Epilepsy.
- Heart defects.
- Eye problems.
- Thyroid issues.
- Patellar luxation.
- Cervical (dry) disc.
- Legg-Calve-Perthes disease.
#5: Wire Fox Terrier
Are you looking for a playful, friendly, and amazing family dog? Oh, did I forget to mention they are also wizards in dog shows?
According to The Reader’s Digest, the Wire Fox Terrier has won the most in the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show. Raking in 12 wins so far and getting their first victory in 1915.
Just watch Vinny who just won in 2020:
This dog breed is designed for performance and speed. They are also highly intelligent and can quickly learn commands you’ll give them.
Weighing in 15 to 18 pounds (7 to 8 kg.), they are very light and nimble. They usually stand at 15.5 inches (39 cm.) as a grown adult.
But don’t let their size fool you – they are pretty sturdy creatures.
Temperament and adaptability
Wire Fox Terriers are excellent companion dogs. They are energetic, loyal, and are very loving towards members of their pack.
Their welcoming personality also makes this breed open to strangers who approach. If there’s one dog breed in this list that’s going to be a politician, it’s most likely the Wire Fox Terrier.
To further improve their skills, you can introduce them to more people while young. Research shows that getting your dog more friends can decrease fearfulness in them.
These dogs are also very playful and would need tons of exercise to help keep them healthy. Training would come easy for fur parents who adopt this canine.
However, their enthusiasm can sometimes make them bark and howl a lot. Expect a lot of interactions with certain strangers and animals.
Maintenance
The Wire Fox Terrier’s double coat is medium in length and wiry. That’s where they got the “wire” in their name.
Grooming them would vary depending on the situation. Hand-stripping would be needed if you are going to enter them into a contest.
But if you just want them to be tidy, then a simple trim will do. Just make time to brush their coat regularly to stop their hair from matting.
Health tests to give
These are medical exams that are recommended by the NBC for Wire Fox Terriers:
- Cardiac exam.
- Eye check-ups.
- Patella evaluation.
#6: Bedlington Terrier
The Bedlington Terrier is a charming and loyal dog that makes an excellent guard dog. They are always alert yet still cuddly enough for fur parents who love hugging canines.
This dog breed was originally designed to protect mining shires in England. They are fast on their feet, moving lightly, and have a bouncy step.
They usually stand at 15 to 17.5 inches (38 to 44 kg.) Adults also weigh around 17 to 23 pounds (8 to 10 kg.)
Bedling Terriers also live somewhere between 11 to 16 years old.
Temperament and adaptability
This dog breed has high energy levels and would need a lot of exercise. Getting them outdoors to go for a run is something this breed would love.
Since Bedlington Terriers are bred to be guard dogs, it’s natural that they’re protective. They’d sometimes bark at people they don’t fully trust.
There might even be instances where this pooch will protect you from your partner.
Maintenance
Bedlington Terriers have a curly coat and have a mix of soft and harsh strands. Keeping it short would be beneficial to keep them clean.
Using clippers and scissors can help make their hair short. Here 2 great options on Amazon:
But you can also opt to bring them to your groomer.
The upside is they don’t shed a lot. This dog breed is perfect for fur parents who have allergies.
You also need to watch out for their nails. Bedlington Terriers are active dogs. And having long claws will definitely give them pain.
Health tests to give
These are medical exams that is recommended by the NBC for Bedlington Terriers:
- Cardiac exam.
- Patella evaluation.
- Copper toxicosis DNA test.
- Ophthalmologist evaluation.
Further reading: 13 Real Reasons Why Your Dog Protects You From Your Husband
#7: Miniature Schnauzer
This dog breed is widely known in the canine world as friendly and highly intelligent. Miniature Schnauzers are also easy to train.
Adults of this breed usually weigh between 11 to 20 pounds (5 to 9 kg.) Their height typically reaches 14 inches (36 cm.)
As the name suggests, this breed is from their bigger siblings, the Standard Schnauzer.
Temperament and adaptability
Miniature Schnauzers are generally outgoing and get along with others pretty well. They are very charming with their long lashes that are very expressive.
Just one puppy eyes look from them and it’s sure to make you give them a few treats.
Their size makes them a perfect companion for those who live in small spaces. However, their watchdog ancestry gives them the energy to guard farmlands.
This dog breed enjoys playing around. And Miniature Schnauzers easily get excited when the activity is physically exhausting.
Muscular and tough, this canine breed can withstand hours of guarding. They can also protect their homes without getting aggressive.
Maintenance
As a fur parent to a Miniature Schnauzer, you need to regularly brush and comb their hair. They don’t shed a lot but will need your assistance in managing their coat.
This dog breed has a double coat with a soft undercoat and a wiry on top. A visit to the vet once every 5 to 8 weeks is beneficial so that they’d look their best.
You might also want to bring them to the groomer to cut their brows. Like this cutie Miniature Schnauzer:
Health tests to give
These are medical exams that is recommended by the NBC for Miniature Schnauzers:
- Cardiac exam
- Ophthalmologist evaluation
Their breed is also vulnerable to urinary and liver problems.
If you do adopt this dog breed, you should know they’re prone to develop cataracts. Phacoemulsification is the best treatment for it according to research.
#8: Chinese Crested Dog
This dog breed is quite unique in its looks. The Chinese Crested Dog has a hairless variety with pink spotted skin that feels smooth.
But they do have a variation that’s covered with soft and silky hair strands. Aside from their coats, everything else is practically the same between both varieties.
The Chinese Crested dog is a friendly canine, always alert, and affectionate.
Adults of this breed typically weigh 8 to 12 pounds (4 to 5 kg.)
Their height is usually between 11 to 13 inches (28 to 33 cm.)
Temperament and adaptability
Chinese Crested Dogs are playful and loving toy dogs. They are usually close to their humans and are highly attentive.
This dog breed can easily adapt to different weather conditions. So if you want a companion for traveling, you should consider adopting a Chinese Crested.
It’s also pretty easy to train them since they are very obedient and intelligent. Potty training wouldn’t be an issue, unlike other dogs who sometimes pee inside your home.
Maintenance
For the hairless variety, all you need to do is keep their skin healthy. Lotions and sunscreen would help them to stay healthy.
You can purchase these from Amazon:
The good thing about adopting the hairless Chinese Crested Dog is that they don’t smell. A problem some dogs with hair have.
Their hairy sibling on the other hand has a short undercoat and is easy to groom. Brushing is enough to keep their hair healthy, clean, and free from matting.
Health tests to give
These are medical exams that are recommended by the NBC for Chinese Crested Dogs:
- Cardiac exam.
- PLL DNA test.
- Patella evaluation.
- PRA-RCD3 DNA test.
- Ophthalmologist evaluation.
You might also be interested in: 13 Reasons Why Dogs Poop / Pee Inside After Being Outside
#9: Parson Russell Terrier
This canine breed is known to be a very affectionate and welcoming dog. If you try and socialize them, they’d easily get along with people and fur babies alike.
Adults of this breed stand between 13 to 14 inches (33 to 36 cm.) tall. And their weight would be around 13 to 17 pounds (6 to 8 kg.)
Their size may be small but Parson Russell Terriers are fierce hunters. They can run beside hounds when looking for foxes.
Temperament and adaptability
Due to their hunting ancestry, the Parson Russell Terrier has high energy levels. They can walk a trail or even run beside their fur parents if you live an active lifestyle.
PRTs are also highly trainable. And can easily understand vocal cues and other commands. Intelligence is a key part of their characteristic, too.
After all, you’ll need brains if you’re going to hunt foxes. Speed isn’t enough.
Maintenance
Parson Russell Terriers have two types of coats. One variety has smooth fur and the other is a little bit rough and broken.
Brushing their hair will be required to keep it from matting. However, for those wanting to adopt a PRT with rough hair, clipping and plucking are needed.
You might also find yourself frequently washing them because they’re full of mud. I mean, they’re not called hunting dogs for nothing.
Digging and playing in mud is a frequent activity for them. Rolling in the poo of foxes can also be a part of their hunting skills to mask their scent
Health tests to give
These are medical exams that are recommended by the NBC for Parson Russell Terriers:
- BAER testing.
- Patella evaluation.
- Ophthalmologist exam.
PRTs are also prone to having congenital deafness, ataxia, and eye problems.
Part 2: Big dogs with long legs
#1: Scottish Deerhound
This dog breed might look huge in size but they’re very gentle, calm, and polite. They look majestic from afar and are bred to stalk giant wild red deers.
They look similar to Greyhounds and are visibly muscular.
To give you an idea of how huge this dog breed is, I’ll share with you their typical height and weight.
Adult Scottish Deerhounds stand between 28 to 32 inches (71 to 81 cm.) in height. And weigh around 75 to 110 pounds (34 to 49 kg.)
Temperament and adaptability
Scottish Deerhounds are very sociable canines and love to be around other dogs. They also show affection towards their family through cuddles and hugs.
Although, because of their size, Scottish Deerhounds wouldn’t be best for children. Accidents may occur when they’re moving around and injure kids
This dog breed can also handle change quite easily. And they are open to meeting new people.
One would think that dogs of this ancestry would be energetic, but this breed is usually calm. They are typically quiet and rarely bark and howl at passersby.
Maintenance
Taking care of Scottish Deerhounds is relatively easy. They have double-coated wiry fur that’s usually medium in length
As long as you brush their coat once a week, they’re good to go.
Although, their fur sheds at a medium level and would not be good for people with rhinitis. Scottish Deerhounds rarely drool, so that’s a plus for us who love clean spaces.
If you’re planning to adopt this dog breed, you need to be ready for some serious exercise. Scottish Deerhounds don’t like being put in a crate.
Activities like walking around your block would be too little for them. They need exercises that train their muscles and keep them fit until they grow old.
Health tests to give
These are medical exams that are recommended by the NBC for Scottish Deerhounds:
- Bile Acid test.
- Cardiac exam.
- Factor VII DNA test.
Other health problems that may arise in the future include:
- Bloat.
- Sensitivity to anesthesia and drugs.
Warning: You shouldn’t neuter Scottish Deerhounds while young. Wait at least until they’re 2 years old or older
#2: Whippet
Often called a “Poor man’s racehorse”, this dog breed is born to go fast.
Are you trying to eat something in your kitchen? Don’t bother, they’d run towards you as fast as lightning.
At first glance, Whippets seem calm, gentle, and affectionate. Don’t get me wrong, they are.
But when it comes to running and chasing something down, you’ll see the beast unleash.
Temperament and adaptability
Whippets are very friendly and accommodating dogs. They like being around their family and the people they trust.
Taking this dog breed to the park will also be… well, a walk in the park, since they’re sociable. Whippets wouldn’t have a problem playing games with other canines.
This canine also has the tolerance to be around children. Anything kids do to Whippets, they’d just brush it off making them good family dogs.
Maintenance
A Whippet’s coat is easy to maintain. They have smooth short fur that doesn’t shed too often making cleaning up easier for you.
Fur parents wouldn’t have to exert much effort in keeping their fur healthy. A weekly brush and bath would suffice.
You do need to trim their nails down. As mentioned before, these are dogs that run fast, and having long toenails can hurt them.
Whippets also don’t drool much and will therefore keep your surroundings clean.
Health tests to give
These are medical exams that are recommended by the NBC for Whippets:
- BAER testing.
- Cardiac exam.
- Ophthalmologist evaluation.
#3: Sloughi
This tall and slim beauty hails from the deserts of North Africa. They’ve been bred to hunt game and other animals which means they have fast limbs.
You can say that they’re just like Usain Bolt.
Sloughis stand between 24 to 29 inches (61 to 74 cm.)
And they usually weigh around 35 to 50 pounds (16 to 23 kg.)
Here is a list of the animals Sloughis hunt down in their homeland:
- Hares.
- Foxes.
- Jackals.
- Gazelles.
- Wild pigs.
Impressive, right?
This dog breed is a sighthound by lineage and is nicknamed “Arabian Greyhound”.
Temperament and adaptability
Sloughis are oftentimes distant and don’t like socializing. It’s not that they hate it, they just prefer being with the people they already know.
They have high energy levels due to the purpose of their breed. And because of this, they require exercises that would really test their skills.
Runs along trails and obstacle courses would be best as part of their routine.
Their ancestors have been mingling with humans as hunting partners. Due to this, they grow up to be trainable canines.
Generally, these dogs are calm creatures that don’t usually bark when they see someone. Unlike aggressive and loud dog breeds.
Maintenance
Luckily for those who want to adopt Sloughis, their furs are easy to maintain. They have smooth and short hair that doesn’t require a lot of grooming.
You can brush their fur with a hairbrush with soft bristles at least once a week. Check the Soft Pet Brush by Hertzko from Amazon.
Hound gloves would also be beneficial in keeping their hair smooth and clean. You can purchase the Gentle Deshedding Brush Glove from Amazon.
Keep an eye out for dirt and mud in their hair since they are designed to run outdoors. They might get filthy after a day going on adventures and runs.
Health tests to give
These are medical exams that are recommended by the NBC for Sloughis:
- PRA Optigen DNA test.
- Ophthalmologist evaluation.
You may also wonder: 15 Reasons Why Your Dog Wants To Be Alone (What It Means)
#4: Azawakh
We’ve got another dog on this list hailing from Africa. This time, it’s on the western part of the continent.
Just like their African brothers, Azawakhs are hunting dogs. And they look sleek and elegant. Because of their ancestry, they also make good companions and guard dogs.
Adult Azawakhs usually weigh around 33 to 55 pounds (15 to 25 kg.)
And their heights are typically between 23.5 to 29 inches (60 to 74 cm.)
Temperament and adaptability
Azawakhs are known to be loyal and very affectionate towards their fur parents. But they also like to spend time alone and enjoy their independence.
They’re not the most playful dogs yet they’d still engage you in physical activities. Exercises like going out for runs or taking them through obstacle courses are great for them.
Since this dog breed likes being independent, they might be a little bit hard to train. You’re going to need a lot of positive reinforcement to have them learn vocal cues.
Energy levels are also not that high despite them being hunting dog breeds.
Maintenance
Much like the Sloughis, Azawakhs also have smooth and short hair. Which makes them one of the easiest breeds to clean and maintain.
Their ancestors have been known to chase down gazelles in the desert.
They are sighthounds which means they rely on their vision to hunt prey. And use their speed to catch up to them.
And this characteristic might also show in your Azawakh if you adopt one.
Keeping dust and dirt from their fur would be easy though because of its length. Using a rubber mitt or glove and brushing them once a week is enough for Azawakhs.
Health tests to give
Generally, this dog breed is healthy and is not prone to diseases. Still, you need to watch out for:
- Seizures.
- Heart problems.
- Hypothyroidism.
- Autoimmune-mediated disease.
#5: Komondor
Ever seen those dogs that look like giant walking mops? Yep, those furry creatures are called Komondors.
This dog breed has Hungarian roots. The canines are bred to be guard dogs. They are extremely brave and loyal especially towards their beloved ones.
One unique aspect of a Komondor is their fur. They look like dreadlocks if grown properly.
Just watch a video of them:
A Komondor’s power can only be matched by its size. They usually stand at 25.5 to 27.5 inches (65 to 70 cm.) tall.
And their weight is somewhere between 80 to 100 pounds (36 to 45 kg.)
Temperament and adaptability
Komondors are known to be protective of their fur parents. They also love showing their affections towards them by keeping their pack safe.
This dog breed usually doesn’t socialize with other canines well. But if you introduce them to other animals slowly, they can learn to be around them.
Komondors are typically laid back and would love to cuddle with you. But for you to get their full potential, you need to train this dog breed.
Not to worry, they are highly intelligent dogs and it’s relatively easy to teach them.
Since they come from a guarding breed, it’s normal for them to bark at certain people. Especially if they see them as threats.
Maintenance
A Komondor’s coat needs special attention since they have thick hair. It’d be easier to bring them to a groomer to have their fur cleaned.
However, you can also try washing this pooch at home.
Their hair is what we call a “corded coat” and this type of fur clumps up over time. When a Komondor reaches 9 to 10 months old, groomers usually split the clumps.
After washing their hair, you need to remove every hint of shampoo. Then let them stand in front of a fan to dry their fur out.
To help with the drying, you can use a towel and squeeze their hair.
Health tests to give
These are medical exams that is recommended by the NBC for Komondors:
- Hip evaluation.
- Ophthalmologist tests.
#6: Great Dane
As their name suggests, this dog breed indeed is great. Both in its size and loyalty to their fur parents.
You’ll most likely see Great Danes being cuddly towards the people they trust. But despite their soft and sweet character, they are excellent guard dogs.
Only an insane intruder would face a canine of this size if there’s one at your home.
Weighing in up to 175 pounds (79 kg.), some fur parents have a hard time when they jump on them. Great Danes also stand between 28 to 32 inches tall (71 to 81 cm.)
Temperament and adaptability
These giant creatures also have huge hearts. They love snuggling with humans and dogs they consider to be part of their pack.
This behavior is pretty normal for guard breeds.
Despite their friendliness, Great Danes are also powerful animals when they’re protecting. They use their size and bite strength to ward off an intruder in your home.
Maintenance
This dog breed is another one on the list of “easy to groom” canines. They have short and smooth hair that doesn’t need a lot of care.
But, because of their sheer size, Great Danes can shed a significant amount of hair. What you can do is brush them once a week to help minimize their shedding.
Health tests to give
These are medical exams that are recommended by the NBC for Great Danes:
- Hip exam.
- Thyroid test.
- Cardiac exam.
- Ophthalmologist evaluation.