Some dogs look like they were designed by an artist with a wild imagination.
Their unusual body shapes aren’t just for show – they actually determine how much activity these pups need every day.
From extra toes to flexible spines, these physical quirks mean their exercise routines look quite different from your average Labrador.
Always consult with a veterinarian or professional dog trainer to create an exercise plan tailored to your individual dog’s health, age, and specific needs, as every dog is unique.
1. Norwegian Lundehund
Imagine a dog with six fully functional toes on each paw instead of the usual four.
That’s the Norwegian Lundehund, whose extra digits and incredibly flexible joints once helped it scale slippery cliffs in Norway to hunt puffins.
These unusual features mean they need moderate daily exercise that includes climbing, agility work, or obstacle courses to keep those special joints healthy and mobile.
2. Catahoula Leopard Dog
With a body built like a canine bodybuilder and mesmerizing glassy eyes, this Louisiana native was bred for serious work.
Their powerful, athletic frame and strong hindquarters demand vigorous daily exercise – think long runs, hiking, or herding activities.
Without enough physical challenges, their muscular build and high energy can lead to destructive behaviour, so plan for at least 60 to 90 minutes of intense activity daily.
3. Whippet
Built like a miniature greyhound, the Whippet’s aerodynamic body can hit speeds up to 35 miles per hour in seconds.
Their slender, streamlined shape means they’re sprinters, not marathon runners – short bursts of intense running satisfy their exercise needs better than long, slow walks.
Daily sprinting opportunities in a secure area plus moderate walks keep these speed demons happy and healthy without overworking their lean physique.
4. Boykin Spaniel
Don’t let their medium size fool you – Boykin Spaniels pack serious energy into their liver-coloured, compact frames.
Originally bred to fit in small hunting boats, their sturdy but smaller build means they excel at swimming and retrieving in water.
Their body shape makes water-based exercise ideal, so regular swimming sessions combined with land activities keep them physically satisfied and mentally sharp without straining their moderately sized joints.
5. Alaskan Malamute
Built like a furry tank, the Alaskan Malamute’s massive chest, thick bones, and powerful shoulders were designed to pull heavy sleds across frozen tundra.
This heavyweight build means they need regular, vigorous exercise that puts their strength to use – pulling activities, weight-pulling sports, or long hikes with a doggy backpack.
Without proper outlets for their power, these gentle giants become restless and bored quickly.
6. Thai Ridgeback
A distinctive ridge of hair grows in the opposite direction along this breed’s spine, creating a unique mohawk-like stripe.
Their muscular, athletic build and independent nature mean they need consistent, structured exercise to stay balanced.
Daily runs, agility training, or interactive play sessions suit their strong, primitive body type perfectly, as they were bred to survive harsh conditions and need activities that challenge both body and mind equally.
