You might wonder if only humans need regular exercise to maintain good health. No, not at all, A Dog, not a human though, needs exercise to maintain muscle tone as well as an appropriate weight for their age and breed. Making your dog walk does not only mean exercise but also provides mental stimulation, helping your dog build confidence and avoid potential behavioral issues like anxiety and aggression.
How Much Exercise Do Dogs Need?
The amount of exercise your dog needs varies based on factors such as age, health, and breed. Here are a few standard guidelines you can follow:
If it’s a puppy;
It has less endurance and needs a potty break every 2 to 4 hours, so you won’t be able to take it too far but will need to take it out more frequently. It needs comfortable walking on a leash before tackling a full-fledged dog walk.
Puppies usually want to relieve themselves right after they eat. So you can correlate your walks with your pup. It can simultaneously make potty training more successful.  With a 10-week-old puppy, you might go out for a 10-minute walk two or three times a day. For the first few months, it’s best to stick with short and frequent walks.
If it’s an adult dog;
If your dog hasn’t been very active or is out of shape, starting with a 10 to 15-minute dog walk is a great idea. Just like with puppies, it’s best to keep the dog walk short and positive at the beginning. Pay attention to your dog’s pace—if they’re lagging or pulling ahead, you might need to adjust your speed to match theirs.
As long as there are no underlying health concerns, you can gradually increase the length of the dog walk or start taking them out twice a day. The frequency of walks depends on your schedule, as well as your dog’s energy levels and unique personality. Some dogs love frequent walks, while others might be content with one good dog walk a day.
For dogs with mobility issues, short walks can help prevent joint stiffness and inflammation. In such cases, a harness can be very useful, especially for larger dogs, to help them move around comfortably.
If it’s a senior dog;
For senior dogs, if they’re able and willing to go on a dog walk, exercise is a fantastic way to keep them fit and active. In addition, older dogs gain a lot from the sensory experiences of a walk—new sights, sounds, and smells provide valuable mental stimulation.
If your dog has arthritis, gentle and frequent movement can be really beneficial. You may always consult with your veterinarian, and keep an eye out for signs of pain or fatigue, like limping, stopping frequently, lying down, heavy panting, or struggling to get on or off curbs. If you walk along with your dog for long, consider using a wagon or stroller to give your senior dog a break.
Tips for Walking Your Dog
When you walk with your pup, it strengthens the bond with your furry friend. You may use positive reinforcement to encourage good behavior—bring along treats and give lots of praise. Some dogs are excited to explore the world. They want to meet people and other dogs, while others might be more reserved.
For both puppies and older dogs, keep an eye on joint strain. A leisurely pace is best, and try to avoid too much time on hard surfaces like concrete. Instead, choose grassy areas or wooded trails for a softer walk. If your dog’s paws are sensitive, consider using dog booties or applying a paw balm to protect their feet.
For those who enjoy jogging or biking with their dog, wait until the dog is at least a year old. Especially with larger breeds, you want to avoid too much impact on hard surfaces when they’re still growing.
Alternatives to Dog Walks for Exercise
You don’t have to travel far to provide your dog with good exercise. Training sessions at home or in the backyard can offer both physical and mental stimulation. Start with basic commands like sit, stay, and down, and then move on to more complex tricks. If you’re interested, you could even try training for obedience competitions.
For food-motivated dogs, hide treats around the house to encourage movement, or use interactive toys to keep them engaged. This way, you can keep your dog happy, healthy, and mentally enriched without relying solely on traditional dog walks.
