Exercise for dogs can mean so much more than twice-daily walks around the block. From dock diving to flyball, lure coursing to agility, dog sports let cut canines show off their natural athletic abilities.
Of course, your dog doesn’t have to go pro: Even backyard ball players can develop envious physiques, and regular exercise will help your healthy dog stay fit.
These 12 dogs are true athletes, demonstrating strength, agility, and good sportsdogship at every turn.
Hoop, there it is…
This border collie soars through the hoop with the greatest of ease. Agility training includes hoops, hurdles, weave poles, and more to keep active dogs busy and buff.
It’s a bird…it’s a plane…it’s Super Dog!
This graceful dock-diver cuts a stunning silhouette, showing us why the German shorthaired pointer is considered one of the most athletic dog breeds in the world.
Hey, batter-batter-batter
Sometimes, being a dog athlete means showing the human athletes how it’s done (shhh, we won’t tell him he’s holding the bat the wrong way ’round).
I believe I can flyball
Via YouTube
These buff pitties, all high-risk shelter rescues, show off their speed, strength, and sportsmanship as they compete in flyball, a team relay sport in which dogs run, jump, and retrieve as fast as they can.
Disc dogs do it in the air
Cattle dogs are known for their athleticism and agility, and this disc dog is no exception. We bet she stuck the landing.
Aquadog to the rescue
Check out the trim waist on this water dog! Swimming is great aerobic activity, and can help ease arthritis pain in older dogs, so take your best friend to the beach for some healthy fun.
Red ball gives you wings
Via YouTube
This is one bully dog who loves his ball, and from the looks of this video, it’s keeping him in excellent shape.
How much you lift, bro?
Boston Terriers are trim, lively dogs, but this little lifter may be more “buff at heart.” Honestly, who cares how much you can lift when you’re this adorable?
One happy hurdler
This Portuguese water dog remains buoyant even on dry land, showing off her athletic breed’s distinct, sturdy shape as she dominates the hurdle.
Hunky hound haunches
Via YouTube
Mouse the greyhound shows off her strong legs and quick acceleration on the lure coursing field. Lure coursing is a great way to help retired racing dogs fulfill their need for speed in a fun, safe, and humane way.
Yoga body with a Yoda face
French bulldogs aren’t the most athletic dogs, but this yoga babe is proud of her physique, and you should be proud of yours, too.
Whatever your athletic abilities, hopefully these sporty dogs can serve as inspiration for you and your best friend. As you embark on your journey to buffdom, make sure to stay hydrated, know your limits, and remember: being buff is awesome, but it’s what’s on the inside that counts.
Top image via Flickr/hometowninvasion