How Much Exercise Does Your Dog Need?

The age of your dog is the first factor to be considered when determining how much exercise he/she may need! Puppies will obviously need the most exercise while senior dogs will need the least. Paws to Conisder handles dogs of all ages in and around the Jamaica Plain/West Roxbury area, and always strive to find creative ways to maximize your dogs daily dose of exercise!

Puppies

“According to the U.K. Kennel Club, A good rule of thumb is a ratio of five minutes of exercise per month of age (up to twice a day) until the puppy is full grown, i.e. 15 minutes (up to twice a day) when three months old, 20 minutes when four months old etc. Once they are fully grown, they can go out for much longer. Swimming, short games of fetch with small exercise balls and short walks are all great forms of puppy exercise!”

Adults

“Adult dogs generally don’t require as much attention as puppies, but most still require at least 30 minutes to 2 hours of exercise daily. Hiking, relay-race games and play dates with doggy friends are exciting, fulfilling activities that will leave you and your pup snoozing on the couch by the end of the day!”

Seniors

“As we age, we often aren’t able to maintain the pace we once enjoyed. The same is true with our furry friends as they get older. While walks should still be an important part of a senior dog’s life, these walks should shorten in length and be taken at a slower pace.

Swimming is a great exercise alternative for senior dogs, as well. Taking your dog for a swim in the pool or a lake (while wearing a flotation device!) allows him to stay active without putting further stress on his joints.”

While age is an important factor, it is not the only one. Breed can also play a role in determining how much exercise a dog must receive.

Smaller Breeds

“Smaller breeds, such as Chihuahuas, Poodles and Yorkshire Terriers, tend to be less active.”

Giant Breeds

“Despite their size and strength, giant dog breeds such as Great Danes, Mastiffs and Newfoundlands are known to be less energetic, as well.”

Flat-nosed Breeds

“Flat-nosed or brachycephalic breeds, which include Bulldogs, Pugs and Shih Tzus, are brachycephalic dogs. This means they suffer from breathing and respiratory issues that cause them to slow down and live a more sedentary lifestyle.”

Active Breeds

“Active breeds, on the other hand, thrive under plenty of exercise and action. This includes Terriers, Retrievers, Scent Hounds and Shepherds. Typically, these breeds should be getting roughly 60-90 minutes of daily exercise to maintain their health.”

Overall the amount of exercise a dog needs will vary, and but no matter the size, age or breed of your dog, making sure that he/she has an active life with lots playtime and dog walking is important to maintaining a long and happy life!

Dogster