How much exercise does a dog need a day?
How much your dog should walk and play depending on age, breed and health, with ideas for puppies, adults and senior dogs, and games for days you can't go out.
It depends on the dog. The American Kennel Club and the ASPCA agree that the main factors are breed, age and health. A very active breed needs a lot more than a calm one, and exercise isn’t only physical: it also tires their mind and keeps boredom and chewing at bay.
Puppies: often and short
Puppies have plenty of energy, but they are still growing. The AKC recommends several short walks or play sessions through the day rather than one very long walk, which can be too hard on a developing body. Ask your vet how much activity suits your puppy.
Adults: by breed and health
- High-energy breeds (herding, hunting or working dogs): they need much more than a walk around the block. Running, fetch, swimming or a dog sport suit them well.
- Calmer breeds: a brisk walk may be enough.
- With hip dysplasia or heart or breathing problems, ask your vet which routine suits them. Swimming is good low-impact exercise for the joints.
Senior dogs: less intensity, but keep going
They may not run like they used to and a run might become a walk, but the AKC points out that exercise matters just as much at this age. It keeps them active and helps prevent weight gain. Watch how they respond and adjust the length.
Signs your dog needs more exercise
- Chewing or digging when left alone.
- Gaining weight without eating more.
When you can’t go out
In heat, cold or rain, the AKC suggests indoor alternatives:
- Hide-and-seek or treat searches.
- Practising commands and teaching new tricks, which tire the mind.
- Going up and down the stairs a few times, carefully with long-backed, short-legged dogs.
With Miloop walks you see the route, distance and time of every outing, and whether they walked less this week.