Although running can often be seen as a solitary activity, research shows that 12 per cent of runners hit the pavement with a four-legged companion.
In this year’s SportsShoes.com Running Report, 1 in 10 runners revealed they are motivated to go for a run because of their dog.
However, as dog owners know, different dog breeds offer different characteristics and traits, which mean that some are more suited to being a running partner than others.
Online running shoes retailer, SportsShoes.com, has released a new study that uses data to reveal the best breeds to run with.
Traits such as energy levels, trainability, adaptability and sociability, all things that make for a great running companion, were analysed to create a total score that highlights the top dogs for runners.
Here are the findings - they best dogs to run with.
9. Irish Setter
Also with a running rating of 4.6 is the Irish Setter. References to the breed have been found dating back to as long ago as 1570. | Canva/Getty Images
10. Border Collie
The Border Collie is the world's most intelligent dog and is commonly used to herd sheep. It's no slouch in the running department, coming joint 7th in the research with a rating of 4.6. | Canva/Getty Images
11. Gordon Setter
Two dogs share 10th spot for the best four-legged friends to run with, having scored a rating of 4.5. They were first bred in Scotland to hunt game birds. | Canva/Getty Images
12. Australian Shepherd
Completing our list, with a score of 4.5, is the Australian Shepherd. A dog used to herd livestock, despite the name they don't actually come from Australia, having first been bred in California. | Canva/Getty Images