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How Much Exercise Does My Dog Need Each Day?

Matthew Kinneman | | 0 comments

dog exercise tips

It’s the million-dollar question for many dog owners: how much exercise does your dog really need? The answer varies depending on breed, age, health, temperament, and genetics. Some dogs need only short walks, while others thrive on hours of activity and mental stimulation.

Breed

Research can give you a general guideline for exercise requirements by breed. But relying only on breed ignores other important factors like nutrition, fitness level, and individual temperament.

Some dogs may not naturally enjoy exercise, but their long-term health depends on it. In addition, many working breeds crave not only physical activity but also mental stimulation — puzzles, training, or tasks they can interpret as their “job.”

The more you understand your dog’s unique needs, the better you’ll balance exercise, nutrition, and mental enrichment.

Age

Exercise needs change dramatically with age:

  • Puppies: A common guideline is 5 minutes of exercise per month of age per day. For example, a four-month-old pup should get around 20 minutes daily, broken into short sessions. Puppies usually self-regulate by tiring quickly and resting.

  • Adult dogs (1–6 years): This is when most dogs need the most exercise. Depending on breed and build, anywhere from 30 minutes to 2 hours daily may be appropriate.

  • Senior dogs (6+ years): Dogs slow down with age, often due to stiff joints or soreness. While they may want less exercise, they still need regular activity — usually gentler routines like longer walks instead of intense fetch games.

Health, Temperament, and Genetics

Beyond age, health conditions, temperament, and genetics play a role. Poor breeding practices or underlying health issues may limit stamina. Always consult with your veterinarian to find the right balance.

A useful rule of thumb: calories in = calories out. Diet quality and quantity directly impact your dog’s energy, weight, and behavior.

Best Activities for Fitness and Stimulation

  • Walking & hiking: Change routes occasionally to keep things interesting.

  • Swimming: Great for water-loving dogs and older dogs with joint issues.

  • Running: Ideal for safe spaces where dogs can zoom with others.

  • Fetch: Provides both physical exercise and mental stimulation, especially for working breeds.

Signs Your Dog Isn’t Getting Enough

High-energy breeds will often make it obvious: barking, chewing, restlessness, or destructive behavior. As many experienced owners know: if they’re not exercised enough, they’ll find “projects” around the house — like chewing your shoes.

For calmer breeds, a lack of exercise may show up as weight gain. A simple test: run your hands along your dog’s ribcage. If you can feel the ribs without pressing through fat, your dog is likely fit. If not, talk to your vet about adjusting activity and diet.

The Bottom Line

Every dog needs exercise — even if they don’t seem to want it. If your dog is restless despite hours of physical activity, they may need more mental stimulation or quality bonding time.

When in doubt, your veterinarian is the best resource for tailoring an exercise and nutrition plan that fits your dog’s specific needs.