The information contained within this blog is not intended to serve as a substitute for professional veterinary advice. When introducing new items into your pet’s diet, consult with your veterinarian.
Finding the right balance of exercise for your dog is incredibly important for their well-being, mobility, and mental health — and we know you want the absolute best for your pup. It can be tough to figure out exactly how much exercise a dog needs, but with the right information, you’ll have what you need to find a balance.
The amount of exercise a dog needs depends on breed, age, energy level, and health conditions, among other factors. While high-energy breeds like Border Collies thrive on hours of daily activity, smaller or less active breeds may only require short, gentle walks.
Proper exercise keeps your dog physically fit and helps prevent behavioral issues like boredom and health concerns like obesity. Let’s take a closer look at how to tailor an exercise routine that meets your dog’s specific needs and what else you can do to support their health and happiness.
How Can You Understand Your Dog’s Exercise Requirements?
Understanding your dog’s exercise requirements is key to keeping them healthy, active, and mentally stimulated. Several factors influence how much exercise your dog needs every day, including breed, age, energy levels, and overall health.
Breed
Dog breeds differ a ton in their exercise needs. High-energy breeds like Border Collies or Huskies require more physical activity, often needing up to two hours of exercise daily to burn off energy and prevent destructive behaviors.
On the other hand, brachycephalic breeds like Bulldogs or Pugs, with their short snouts, need shorter, gentler exercise sessions to avoid respiratory distress.
Age
Your dog’s age also plays a role. Puppies need bursts of activity with plenty of rest, while adult dogs thrive on a regular exercise routine that balances mental and physical challenges.
Senior dogs may require less exercise, with low-impact activities like walking and swimming to accommodate joint problems or age-related issues. If your senior dog does struggle with joint pain, a hip and joint supplement like Antinol Plus might be able to help.
Exercise Needs for Different Dog Breeds
Given that different dog breeds have varying exercise needs based on their energy levels, size, and health characteristics, it’s important to tailor your dog's activity routine to their breed. This section will help you figure out how to get your pup the right amount of exercise for their physical and mental well-being.
High-Energy Breeds
High-energy breeds like Border Collies, Huskies, and Retrievers are known for their stamina and need for constant activity. These dogs thrive on long walks, runs, and mentally stimulating activities like hide-and-seek or herding tasks.
They typically require at least a few hours of exercise daily to stay healthy and engaged. Without a whole lot of exercise, these breeds may develop behavioral problems, such as destructiveness or hyperactivity.
Medium-Energy Breeds
Breeds like Greyhounds and Labradors need a balance of regular daily exercise and relaxation. While they can be active during exercise, they’re also known for being couch potatoes afterward.
These dogs generally need 30 minutes to an hour of exercise each day, including brisk walks or short bursts of playtime to satisfy their physical activity needs.
Low-Energy or Less Active Breeds
Some breeds, like Bulldogs, Pugs, and Chihuahuas, fall into the low-energy category. These dogs require less physical exercise but still benefit from daily short walks and low-impact exercise to maintain their health.
Brachycephalic breeds have shorter snouts, making it harder for them to breathe during intense exercise. For these dogs, short, gentle activities of about 20-30 minutes are more appropriate, with extra care taken during hot weather to prevent overheating.
Tailoring exercise requirements to the needs of your dog’s breed ensures they stay active without putting undue stress on their bodies. Always consult your vet if you’re unsure about the best exercise routine for your dog, especially for giant breeds or dogs with medical conditions.
How Can I Tailor My Dog’s Exercise to Their Life Stage?
Tailoring your dog’s exercise routine to their life stage is also key to their wellness and overall health. Puppies are full of energy and curiosity, but they require short bursts of activity mixed with plenty of rest.
The rule of thumb for puppies is about five minutes of exercise per month of age, two to three times a day. Along with physical activity, mental stimulation through games and training is crucial for their development.
Adult dogs typically need more structured daily exercise to maintain their health. Dog walking combined with playtime and interactive toys can help provide the right balance of physical and mental exercise. Most adult dogs require at least 30 to 60 minutes of activity per day, depending on their breed and energy levels.
Older dogs may slow down due to age or health issues, but they still need low-impact activities like short walks to support their joints and mobility. Pet parents should monitor their dog’s comfort level to ensure they’re getting enough exercise without overexerting themselves.
It’s also helpful to provide them with the supplements they need to stay comfortable. Adjusting activity levels as your dog ages helps maintain their well-being and prevents potential health issues associated with inactivity.
The Importance of Mental Exercise
While physical activity is vital for your dog, mental exercise is just as important. Dogs thrive on mental stimulation, which helps prevent boredom and destructive behaviors.
Activities like puzzle toys, training sessions, and games like hide-and-seek can keep your dog mentally sharp and engaged. High-energy breeds, such as Border Collies and Retrievers, especially benefit from these exercises, as they’re naturally intelligent and eager to learn.
Creating the Right Balance for Your Dog
Finding the right balance of exercise for your dog involves understanding their breed, age, and individual exercise needs. Combining physical activity with mental stimulation and joint supplements can keep your dog healthy, both physically and mentally.
At Pet HealthWorks, we believe that when you create a balanced routine, you support your dog’s wellness and help them live a happy, active life.
Sources:
Research spotlight: Obesity in dogs | CABI Blog
Demographic factors associated with joint supplement use in dogs from the Dog Aging Project | NIH