Spending time outside plays a crucial part in keeping dogs happy, healthy, and active. Most dog owers are aware that they should be taking their dog outdoors often but some may be unsure just about how often, or for how long. It is vital that these sorts of questions are answered as it ensures your dog is getting the right amount of exercise according to their fitness level, age, and breed.
Different dogs require different levels of exercise and so it is not as simple as just giving one straight answer. However, an expert at Vet Help Direct broke things down as easily as possible, providing detailed and useful advice to dog owners who want the best for their companions.
In a blog post published in 2021, vet Rebecca MacMillan wrote: “Most dogs will need to go out twice a day to keep happy, but the length of the walk will depend on the breed of the dog and their physical fitness level or health status.
“For example, active working dog breeds will usefully need to go out for at least two hours total per day. These dogs were built for stamina and need exercise to help them feel fulfilled, otherwise they could become difficult to train and manage.”
The experts highlighted that it is a must for dogs to go out daily, but the amount of time spent outside really depends on the breed you own. So while it is important that all dogs spend time outdoors every day, there are some breeds that “may be happier with just 30 to 60 minutes per day” rather than longer amounts of time.
As well as their energy levels, the amount of exercise your dog gets also deponds on their age.
Puppies should not be exercised “too strenously”. The Kennel Club advises giving your pups five minutes of exercise per month of age (up to twice daily). This means a three-month old puppy could have 15 minutes twice a day, a four-month old 20 minutes, and so on.
The main thing to remember is that exercise is vital for dogs, but also humans, so if you are struggling to get your dog out then do not be afraid to seek help. Dog walk benefits both dogs and owners, allowing you to bond, explore, and meet new people, all while keeping fit.
