How Much Exercise Does Your Dog Need? A Complete Guide

How Much Exercise Does Your Dog Need? Breed & Age Guide

Wondering, “How much exercise does my dog need?” You’re not alone! Exercise is crucial for your dog’s health, happiness, and behavior. But the right amount depends on factors like breed, age, and energy level. In this blog, we’ll break down dog exercise needs and share practical tips to create the perfect routine for your furry friend.

For me and my dog, I typically take him out for a half hour walk in the morning, then a 30 to 45 minute walk in the evening. Sometimes on really nice summer evenings we will take another 30 minute walk right before bed. 

Also, if my pup wants to fetch or be chased we'll do that for a bit. And let's be honest, getting outside and being active is good for us both! 

Why Dog Exercise Matters

Regular exercise keeps your dog physically fit and mentally stimulated. Benefits of proper dog exercise needs include:

• Strong muscles and healthy joints

• Weight management to prevent obesity

• Fewer behavioral issues, like chewing or barking

• Reduced stress and anxiety

Whether it’s a playful game of fetch or a sniff-filled walk, exercise is your dog’s ticket to a joyful life. Let’s explore how to meet their daily exercise requirements.

What Affects Your Dog’s Exercise Needs?

Every dog is unique. Here’s what determines how much exercise a dog needs:

1. Breed and Energy Level

High-energy breeds, like Border Collies or Huskies, need 1–2 hours of intense activity daily. Low-energy breeds, like Bulldogs or Shih Tzus, may only require 30–60 minutes. For example:

• Working Breeds: Need vigorous exercise like running or agility.

• Toy Breeds: Thrive on shorter, lighter activities.

2. Age

• Puppies: Short bursts of play (15–30 minutes, 2–3 times daily) protect growing bones.

• Adult Dogs: Require 30 minutes to 2 hours, depending on breed.

• Senior Dogs: Benefit from 15–30 minutes of gentle activity to stay mobile.

3. Size

Small dogs (e.g., Chihuahuas) need less exercise (30–60 minutes) due to their stride. Larger breeds (e.g., Labradors) often require 1–2 hours to burn energy.

4. Health

Dogs with conditions like arthritis need tailored routines. Consult a vet for dog exercise plans if your pup has health issues. We would be remiss if we didn't use this portion of the blog to include our advice on switching your dog to a raw diet. A raw food diet for dogs can offer various health benefits, including improved digestion, healthier skin and coat, enhanced dental health, and potentially better weight management. Find out more. 

How Much Exercise Do Different Breeds Need?

Here’s a quick guide to daily dog exercise requirements by breed type:

 

Pro Tip: Combine physical exercise with mental stimulation, like puzzle toys or training, to fully meet your dog’s needs.

 

Sample Dog Exercise Routines

Try these dog exercise plans tailored to energy levels:

High-Energy Dog (e.g., Australian Shepherd, 3 years old)

• Morning: 30-minute brisk walk or jog

• Afternoon: 45-minute dog park session (fetch or frisbee)

• Evening: 15-minute training with commands

Medium-Energy Dog (e.g., Beagle, 5 years old)

• Morning: 20-minute sniffing walk

• Afternoon: 30-minute play (ball chase or tug-of-war)

• Evening: 10-minute puzzle toy activity

Low-Energy Dog (e.g., Pug, 7 years old)

• Morning: 15-minute leisurely walk

• Afternoon: 10-minute indoor play (rolling a ball)

• Evening: 5-minute sniffing game

Related: Fun Indoor Activities for Dogs

Signs Your Dog’s Exercise Needs Aren’t Met

Watch for these clues to adjust your dog exercise routine:

• Under-exercised: Chewing, barking, restlessness, or weight gain.

• Over-exercised: Limping, excessive panting, or reluctance to move.

Start with short sessions and increase gradually while monitoring their response.

Tips for Fun and Effective Dog Exercise

1. Vary Routes: New walking paths keep dog exercise routines exciting.

2. Social Play: Arrange doggy playdates for fun socialization.

3. Use Toys: Balls, frisbees, or flirt poles add variety.

4. Train During Exercise: Practice “sit” or “stay” on walks for mental stimulation.

5. Mind the Weather: Avoid hot midday walks, especially for flat-faced breeds.

 ASPCA: Pet Safety Tips

When to Talk to a Vet

Before starting a new dog exercise plan, consult your vet if your dog is:

• A puppy or senior

• Recovering from injury

• Showing signs of pain or fatigue

Your vet can customize a safe dog exercise routine for your pup.

Keep Your Dog Active and Happy!

Finding the right dog exercise balance takes time, but it’s worth it for a healthy, happy pup. Use our guide to tailor a dog exercise plan to your dog’s breed, age, and energy level. Have a favorite activity your dog loves? 

If you want to learn more about a raw dog food diet for your pup, we would love to chat!