Dogs require exercise for many of the same reasons as humans. It controls their weight, tones muscles, helps them maintain healthy joints, and supports cardiovascular health. Veterinarians also recommend regular physical activity to prevent canine boredom and depression often resulting in destructive behaviors, such as destroying furniture. So how often should you walk your dog—and for how long? It depends on several factors.

What Should Influence Dog Walking Frequency?

Breed & Size

Working and sporting dog breeds such as collies, shepherds, dalmatians, huskies, and pointers typically have high energy levels and need to expend that energy daily to maintain their physical and emotional health. Non-working dogs such as Yorkshire terriers do not require as much exercise but still benefit from daily walks. 

Dog breed also affects bladder size, as smaller toy dogs do not have the same capacity for holding it as their larger counterparts. This means the dog should have easy access to a backyard or urine pad, especially if it only goes on one short walk a day.

Age

Puppies and dogs between the ages of one and five have more energy than middle-aged and senior canines, though again energy levels vary among breeds. Young bulldogs, for example, are not partial to exercise the way young pit bulls are. 

And while older dogs usually do not have as much energy, they require regular walks to stay healthy and prevent or manage diseases and conditions such as arthritis and muscle atrophy. Talk to your local veterinarian if your older dog has a health issue and you are unsure how much daily exercise is best.

Food & Water Intake

The amount of water and food your dog drinks and eats also influences walk frequency. Canines require between 50 and 60 ml of water per kilogram of body weight, so larger dogs naturally need more water to stay healthy. They subsequently require “bathroom access” on a more regular basis. Diet also influences how often your dog needs to go out, as a grain-free diet produces less waste.

What Your Dog Specifically Needs

Regardless of your dog’s age, breed, or eating and drinking habits, it needs daily walking for physical health and mental stimulation. Most dogs can walk up to 30 minutes without getting tired, with those in good shape capable of walking for longer periods. Pay attention to the signs indicating your dog is wearing down—including stopping often and panting—to create a daily walking schedule. If your canine is high-energy and benefits from more than one walk a day, you may need to hire a dog walking service or sign your pup up for dog day care.
 

Determine the best exercise plan for your pooch with the veterinarians at A-4 Animal Hospital in Lincoln, NE. Serving area dogs, cats, birds, and exotic animals, this veterinary clinic provides pet boarding and house calls among their other services. Call (402) 475-2282 today to schedule an appointment or visit the veterinarians online to learn more about pet care.