Top 10 High-Jumping Hounds: Impressive Heights and Athletics

The best jumping dogs can clear heights of nearly 10 feet, which is more than the 8-foot high jump record held by Javier Sotomayor since 1993 and nearly double the 5 feet, 5 inch world record set by Brett Williams in 2019 in a standing vertical platform jump event.

This probably doesn’t come as much of a surprise, considering how nimble, agile, and muscular our canine companions can be, but it might surprise you to learn that it’s not just the largest breeds that have the ability to propel themselves into the air.

While it’s true that some toy and small-sized dog breeds can’t match the vertical and horizontal leaps of their larger canine cousins, there are a few on this list that can not only compete with the best of them but also leave some of the larger dogs in the dust.

We’ve compiled a list of the top 10 highest jumping dogs, which features some truly remarkable breeds, such as the Australian Kelpie, whose ability to soar through the air is nothing short of mind boggling, and the Jack Russell Terrier, who can even outjump the Australian Shepherd.

The Kelpie, a breed native to Australia

The Australian Kelpie is a lean, active, and tireless dog breed with a reputation for having extraordinary jumping abilities that are unrivaled by any other breed.

This pup is well-liked by farmers looking for a hardworking dog to herd their livestock because it is bred to work without much supervision.

The Australian Kelpie is a breed of working dog known for its high level of intelligence, eagerness, and boundless energy.

Malinois de Belgique, No. 2

The Belgian Malinois is a powerful, intelligent, and hardworking dog with muscular legs that allow it to jump as high as 8 feet. Since they are both intelligent and adept at scaling vertical surfaces, they find use in a variety of fields, such as law enforcement and disaster relief.

The Belgian Malinois forms strong bonds with its human companions and is therefore ideal for families. However, these dogs can be intense, and they need regular mental and physical exercise to combat their high intelligence and boundless energy.

Border Collie, No. 3

It’s not hard to see why the Border Collie is one of the most popular dog breeds worldwide. This remarkably bright workaholic is full of life and love, and after a long day she enjoys nothing more than curling up for a cuddle with her loved ones.

They are proficient long- and high-jumpers, able to clear fences of up to 6 feet in height from a standing position and 4 feet in height from a sitting position. The Border Collie is strong but nimble, athletic but not overly so, and it thrives when given a task to complete.

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German Shepherd, No. 4

The German Shepherd is a loyal and dependable canine companion, and its self-assurance and bravery have led to it being hailed as the best all-around worker.

Even though they prefer a slow and steady trot, they are capable of serious speed when the situation calls for it, and their powerful hind legs allow them to easily jump up to six feet in the air.

It’s no surprise that the German Shepherd is the most popular breed of police dog because of its heroic willingness to risk its own life to protect its human family. They form deep bonds with their owners and can be both loving pets and reliable watchdogs.

The Greyhound Comes in at No. 5

Although the Greyhound’s sprinting prowess is well-known, its ability to leap is less so. The Greyhound, with its aerodynamic skull and shock-absorbing feet, was practically made for speed. It can grow to a height of up to five feet.

This world-class sprinter is so sweet and noble that he could easily become a beloved family pet. The Greyhound may be capable of speeds of up to 40 miles per hour, but it is actually quite the couch potato and therefore an excellent choice as a companion for less active people.

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