12 Surprisingly Agile Large Dog Breeds

Written By

Mathew Abraham

Updated on

Mathew Abraham

Meet Mathew, Cat Dad and Animal Advocate! Mathew is the editor at PawDown, overseeing content strategy and quality. He's in charge of carefully curating the best pet stories, tips, and advice for you.

Belgian Malinois jump
annaav/123rf

Large dogs aren’t usually the first to come to mind when you think of agility. However, some big breeds are impressively nimble, surprising you with their quick movements and coordination. These dogs don’t just bring size to the table; they bring speed, balance, and an athletic spirit. From running agility courses to tackling challenging tasks, these big dogs show that agility isn’t just for smaller breeds. Let’s explore 12 large breeds that break the stereotype and show just how fast and agile big dogs can be.

1. Belgian Malinois

Belgian Malinois obstacle
rks/123rf

The Belgian Malinois is a smart, confident, and agile breed known for its strong work ethic. You’ll see their high energy and sharp intelligence in everything they do. These dogs excel in agility due to their quick reflexes and ability to complete complex tasks. They bond closely with their handlers, making them attentive and focused in training. Whether it’s agility courses or other physical challenges, the Belgian Malinois can meet your active lifestyle. Their speed, dedication, and precision make them perfect if you enjoy high-energy activities with a loyal partner.

2. German Shepherd

German Shepherd running
Ruben Ascensao/Pexels

German Shepherds are versatile and agile, combining intelligence with physical strength. They’re well-known for their roles in police work, search and rescue, and more. You’ll see their agility in the way they handle obstacles and challenging tasks. In agility trials, German Shepherds balance speed, power, and control, excelling in all sorts of physical challenges. Their natural ability to learn and their loyalty make them ideal for active families. If you’re looking for a strong, intelligent dog, a German Shepherd could be a great fit for you.

3. Doberman Pinscher

Doberman Playing
pavelshlykov/123rf

Dobermans stand out for their sleek, muscular build, which allows them to move with grace and speed. You’ll find that Dobermans bring both agility and endurance to any activity. Their ability to execute precise, swift maneuvers makes them excellent in agility trials. These dogs are highly trainable, responding well to structured activities and physical challenges. If you enjoy agility training or active sports, a Doberman can be a dedicated partner. Their combination of power, focus, and intelligence makes them unmatched in agility, giving you a strong and graceful companion.

4. Border Collie

Border Collie at a dog park
Elina Volkova/Pexels

Border Collies are one of the fastest and most agile dogs in agility events. You’ll find their energy and intelligence are unmatched when it comes to tackling challenges. These dogs have an athletic build and a sharp mind, making them ideal for agility courses. Originally bred for herding, Border Collies possess a natural drive to complete tasks efficiently. They excel in high-energy activities and are happiest when they have a job to do. If you enjoy active outings, a Border Collie can be a perfect companion. 

5. Standard Poodle

Jumping brown poodle
Skyler Ewing/Pexels

Standard Poodles are more than just stylish—they’re smart, athletic, and highly trainable. You’ll appreciate their hypoallergenic coats, which make them a great choice for people with allergies. With their intelligence and quick learning abilities, Poodles excel in agility sports. These dogs love mental challenges and enjoy agility courses that test their skills. If you want a dog that’s both quick-thinking and agile, the Standard Poodle is a fantastic option. They bring a unique mix of elegance and athleticism to any activity, making them ideal for agility and more.

6. Golden Retriever

Golden Retriever sprinting while on leash
Michał Robak/Pexels

Golden Retrievers are affectionate, loyal, and eager to please, making them ideal companions for you and your family. You’ll notice their intelligence and athletic build, which suits agility training well. They love to stay active and enjoy exercises that challenge both their minds and bodies. With their friendly nature and willingness to learn, Golden Retrievers are great candidates for agility sports. If you’re looking for a friendly, trainable dog, the Golden Retriever can be a perfect fit. Their energy and enthusiasm make them a joy to train and watch in action.

7. Labrador Retriever

Labrador retriever jumping a hurdle
Leslieblack2/Pixabay

Labradors are beloved for their intelligence, loyalty, and versatility, making them America’s favorite breed. You’ll find that they’re eager to please and quick learners, perfect for agility sports. Bred as gundogs, Labradors have the athletic build and enthusiasm needed for agility training. If you’re seeking an active, trainable dog, a Labrador is a wonderful choice. They enjoy physical challenges and are highly adaptable, bringing excitement and energy to agility courses and family activities alike. 

8. Boxer

Boxer Vaulting
Romuald_Gałęcki/PixaBay

Boxers are big, energetic dogs known for their playful personalities and loyalty. You’ll enjoy their goofiness and love for family, making them excellent pets. Despite their size, Boxers are agile and quick learners, making them well-suited for agility sports. They love physical challenges and enjoy activities that test their coordination. If you want an energetic, loyal dog, a Boxer could be perfect for you. Their agility, combined with a joyful spirit, brings excitement and fun to agility courses and family outings.

9. Weimaraner

Weimaraner
Pexels/Pixabay

Weimaraners are powerful, athletic dogs with a steady, intelligent, and independent nature. You’ll find their high energy levels and agility make them excellent at physical challenges. They learn quickly and thrive in activities that test both their mind and body. With their strong build, Weimaraners make a great choice for agility training and active lifestyles. If you’re looking for a focused, energetic companion, a Weimaraner could be the right dog for you. Their speed and stamina suit a range of activities, adding enthusiasm to your outings.

10. Vizsla

Vizsla hunting dog
tmartfoto/123rf

The Vizsla is an energetic, affectionate breed known for its agility and enthusiasm. You’ll appreciate their athletic build and love for challenging activities, making them ideal for agility sports. These dogs are quick learners and enjoy both mental and physical stimulation. If you want an energetic, loyal partner, the Vizsla is an excellent choice. Their agility and speed make them great companions for active people. With their friendly nature and boundless energy, Vizslas add excitement and loyalty to your life.

11. Australian Shepherd

Adult Blue Merle Australian Shepherd on Grass Field
Helena Lopes/Pexels

Australian Shepherds are highly intelligent and full of energy, perfect for an active lifestyle. You’ll enjoy their quick reflexes and agility, which make them excellent in agility sports. Named after their ancestors who came from Australia, these dogs are natural workers. If you’re looking for a smart, lively dog, an Australian Shepherd could be ideal. They’re quick learners and love activities that challenge both their mind and body. With an Australian Shepherd, you’ll have an enthusiastic partner for agility training and adventure.

12. Rottweiler

rottweiler jumping obstacle
cynoclub/123rf

Rottweilers are powerful dogs with surprising agility, combining strength with intelligence and a protective nature. You’ll find that their physical abilities make them great at handling various challenges. With consistent training, Rottweilers can excel in agility sports, showing that their size doesn’t limit precise, nimble movement. They’re natural guardians with a keen sense of loyalty, making them dependable partners for active lifestyles.

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