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 dog’s 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. This personalized guidance is especially helpful if your dog has medical conditions, joint concerns, or tends to overdo it during high-energy play.

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. You can also support your puppy’s development through enrichment-based exercise like basic training, food puzzles, and controlled socialization. These activities burn energy while helping your pup learn essential skills and confidence.

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.

It’s also helpful to remember that many adult dogs benefit from a mix of aerobic activity and mental stimulation. Even high-energy breeds can become calmer and more focused when their day includes both physical movement and brain-engaging tasks like scent games or obedience practice.

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 your senior dog stay 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 important for all dogs, regardless of your dog’s 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.

Many pet parents find that shorter, more frequent walks work best for older dogs—helping them stay mobile without pushing their limits. Letting your senior dog set the pace is one of the most important parts of safe exercise at this stage of life.

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.

Many dogs experience just as much fatigue from working their brains as they do from a long walk. Adding even 10–15 minutes of enrichment each day can help reduce boredom, anxiety, and unwanted behaviors.

 Final Thoughts

The bottom line is that your veterinarian and your dog is always your best guide to let you know that she or he 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 out for a few hours, but not too much that your pup gets injured.

As with all aspects of pet care, consistency matters more than perfection. Developing a daily routine that balances movement, enrichment, and rest will help your dog live their healthiest, happiest life.