How Much Exercise Does A Dog Really Need?

We all know how important it is to make sure our dogs get their daily exercise. Whether it is a long walk, jog or even throwing a ball in your backyard, our pups need to get their daily exercise for their longevity and overall health. 

The question is not then do we need to exercise our dogs, but how much exercise does a dog really need.

The overall benefits of a dogs’ daily exercise are not only crucial for your pup’s physical health but its mental health as well. A tired dog is a happy and more relaxed dog which, of course, is likely to keep your pup calm and less likely to cause any trouble.1

A dog’s daily exercise depends on many factors, including the age of your dog, the breed, the dog’s overall physical health.  As always, your vet can help recommend the amount of daily exercise that is sufficient for your dogs.

How much exercise should you give your puppy?

Puppies are bundles of energy, but they tire out quickly and don't require as much exercise as adult dogs. Since puppies are in constant growth mode and take frequent naps, it's best to plan for shorter bursts of activity with your puppy.

Generally, puppies need several short exercise sessions of about 5-10 minutes each throughout the day. Remember, for a puppy, exercise can simply mean playing! Spending more time with your puppy will help you gauge when they're ready to play and when they need to rest.

A good rule of thumb is to walk your puppy for five minutes per month of age, up to twice a day. For example, a four-month-old puppy can handle a 20-minute walk twice daily.

How much exercise does your adult dog need?

The breed of your dog plays a very important role in how much exercise your adult pup requires. Of course, the age and health of your dog are two of the more important things to consider in how much to exercise your pup. The general rule of thumb in adult dogs is that he or she gets a minimum of thirty minutes (twice a day) of exercise.

Active breeds like Terriers, Shepherds, Retrievers, and Pointers need more exercise, around 60-90 minutes per day. This should include activities like running, playing with other dogs, or hiking.

Less-active breeds such as Toy breeds, Giant breeds, and Brachycephalic breeds need about 30-60 minutes of exercise daily. This might involve a leisurely walk around the neighborhood for some dogs.  

How much exercise does your senior dog need?

Senior dogs also benefit from regular exercise, albeit in shorter sessions of 30-60 minutes spread throughout the day. Swimming can be an excellent low-impact exercise option for older dogs, helping to keep them active without straining their joints.

As dogs age, it is very common for their gait to stiffen and/or the develop arthritis. Senior dogs tire out more on walks and might be a little slower, however, daily exercise needs to continue to be a priority. Some joint supplements can help with arthritis and stiffness.

Remember, mental stimulation is crucial for all dogs, regardless of age or activity level. Activities like food puzzles and interactive play are great for keeping your dog's mind engaged and healthy. Pay attention to your dog's cues to ensure they're getting the right amount of exercise without overexerting themselves.

Mental stimulation is equally important as physical exercise.

All dogs can benefit from mental stimulation, however it is really necessary for dogs that are ageing or are injured. While senior dogs might not be able to walk or play as much, they still need mental challenges.  Mental stimulation can come from anything like playing with food puzzles and other different types of interactive, mental play.

Your dog is always your best guide to let you know that she has had enough daily exercise. If Your pup is tired every day and night and is glad to nap or relax after a walk, that’s always a good indicator. The ultimate goal is to exercise your dog enough to be tired, but not too much that your pup gets injured.