Does your dog seem to have an endless supply of energy? Chances are, your pup isn’t getting enough exercise. Daily walks are vital to having a mentally stimulated and happy dog. Knowing what works for you and your furry friend will ultimately lead to satisfaction for everyone involved.
Every dog is different, so deciding on the right amount of exercise for your dog can be tricky. Generally, this can be determined by your dog’s breed, health, personality, and age. When taking into account these factors, your dog’s breed is the most important to consider. High-energy dogs require high-energy exercise, while low-energy dog breeds need less frequent and vigorous physical activity. The American Kennel Club recommends a minimum of one 10-15 minute walk every day to ensure your dog maintains a good mental health. However, this can vary widely depending on the dog.
Walk time by breed:
| 2+ Hours W/ Vigorous Physical Activity | 1+ Hours W/ Moderate to High Physical Activity | 30+ Minutes W/ Moderate Physical Activity |
| – Labrador – Boxer – Dalmatian – German Shepherd – Border Collie – Siberian Husky – English Springer – Spaniel Rottweiler – Samoyed | – Saint Bernard – English Bulldog – Whippet – Pug – Lhasa Apso – Shih Tzu – Cairn Terrier – Basset Hound – West Highland Terrier – Tibetan Terrier – Beagle – Greyhound – Cocker Spaniel – Dogue De Bordeaux | – Chihuahua – Maltese – Papillon – Bichon Frise – Pekinese – Pomeranian – Yorkshire Terrier – Miniature Daschund – King Charles Spaniel |
Age, Health, And More:
Aside from breed, there are 3 more factors you must consider when planning your dog’s exercise routine: age, health, and personality. For starters, a puppy will need several short walks every day to keep them stimulated, while your senior dog will most likely require one short and slow-paced walk every day. Your elderly pup may not be able to maintain the same speed they once could, but it is still important to keep them moving.
Furthermore, your dog’s health will have a significant impact on what their exercise looks like. If your dog is known to suffer from health conditions, it is crucial that you keep a close eye on them when they take their walks. For more information and advice, it is best to consult a trusted veterinarian.
The last factor to take into consideration is your dog’s personality. Some dogs will require enriching and mentally stimulating activities aside from walking, so if you notice your dog getting bored, switch it up a bit! Alter the route of your walk, play a game of fetch, or encourage them to sniff around or find objects to maximize their enjoyment.
At the end of the day, walking your dog should be an enjoyable experience for both parties. Ensuring that your furry friend stays active is essential to their happiness, and walking is a great way for you to spend quality time and bond with them. How do you keep your dog active and engaged? Let us know in the comments below!
Don’t know where to start? Check out this article for more information on how to have the most comfortable walk for you and your furry friend!
