How often to walk your dog – insider tips

For many dogs, going out for a walk can be the highlight of their day. But as a pet parent, there are a few things to keep in mind before you head out. Dogs’ exercise needs vary depending on their age, size and breed. You should also choose activities that match your dog’s personality, health conditions and interests.

We spoke to vets and dog behaviorists to find out how often to walk your dog.

The importance of exercise for dogs

The benefits of walking your dog are many (for both of your dogs and you!)

“Taking at least one outing or dedicated exercise time a day will help your dog stay fit and give him a chance to explore the world,” says Carly Loyer, Ph.D., research manager ASPCA The behavioral science team, noting that walks help weight management, joint health and digestion.

But it’s more than just a long-term vacation for the kahla. Walks are not only physical exercise, but also mental exercise, allowing your furry friend to explore nature, even if it’s just walking on the sidewalk.

“Your dog’s brain will get more stimulation if you follow different routes and visit new places whenever you can, so your dog can experience new smells and sights,” says Loyer. This is true even for many dogs who live in homes with yards where they are allowed to roam.

“Most dogs don’t play alone, and your dog may not be getting enough physical or mental exercise if their only outlet is roaming the lawn.” A brisk walk around the block does a dog’s body (and mind) good.

How often should you walk your dog?

“Dogs, just like people, are healthier with regular cardiovascular exercise,” he says Sarah MachellDVM, veterinarian in Fatster. “Most adult dogs will need somewhere between 30 minutes and two hours of exercise per day, however, how much daily exercise a dog needs depends on a variety of factors including their age, breed, size and general health status.”

To get the most out of every walk with your dog, there are a few factors to consider before strapping on the leash and heading out. Although these are general guidelines, if you have any concerns about your pet, you should consult your veterinarian.

Old age

“For puppies, introducing an exercise routine is important because it helps build a positive emotional loop,” says Machell. “Then as you build on their stamina and growth, you can gradually increase the length and duration of the walk as they get older.” Teach your puppy to walk on a leash and developing a consistent routine is beneficial for both.

Machell notes that in the “teenage” puppy years — when your dog is between three and nine months old — you need to take into account your dog’s considerable energy. She said some owners try to overcompensate and wear their dogs out by taking them on really long or very vigorous walks.

“You can walk them for long periods of time if they have the stamina and energy, but walk them at your own pace. Your dog won’t just stand next to you and run 10K without a break.”

Machell suggests avoiding the pounding, repetitive motions that come with it running until their bone growth is complete. Extremely vigorous exercise in puppyhood is also associated with an increased risk for the elbow and hip dysplasia in dogs.

With older dogsIt’s also important to pay attention to their signs, Machell says, because there will come a point when they won’t have the stamina they used to.

“It’s important to understand that their desire to please will be really great, but they can ignore what their physical bodies are trying to tell them.”

It is not unusual for the amount of time and distance to change. Older dogs often need shorter and more frequent walks.

Size

Size can be a factor, especially if you have large breed dog. “These dogs have a better chance of developing orthopedic issues,” says Machell. “Studies have shown that if you exercise too much at a young age, it can increase your risk of developing it arthritis problems later in life.”

Machell also notes that you shouldn’t assume that smaller dogs minor walks required. “That’s just not true. They might get more tired, but they can often go as far as a big dog can. They just take three times as many steps, so you realize they’re probably a little more tired from that type of exercise than a large breed dog would be.”

General health

There are several health and environmental conditions that can make long or brisk walks difficult for dogs. Some common factors include:

Living Conditions

A dog’s need for exercise doesn’t change depending on its home environment, it’s just a matter of how your dog can get that exercise.

“Some pet owners who live in a smaller, urban environment might want to explore other options like using treadmills or logging out swimming they park to give their dogs some exercise,” says Machell. “People like me who live on a farm, can open the door and let your dog explore. In a small environment, owners have to be a little more creative and thoughtful about how their dogs get that exercise.”

Additional dog walking tips

Here are some expert tips to make daily walks safe and exciting for you and your dog.

Mix up your route

Loyer says mixing up the route when walking is a good idea. You and your dog will love seeing new scenery – and of course, smelling new smells – if you change your route every now and then.

Stay alert

While walking your dog may be routine, it is important that you as a dog owner be aware of your surroundings at all times.

“While it’s tempting to zone out or take a conference call while walking, it’s not always safe,” cautions Loyer. “You should be able to be aware of your surroundings and don’t assume that everyone you meet should know your dog.”

Invest in reliable walking gear

Since you walk your dog every day, proper walking equipment is essential. All dog owners should have a harness, a dog tag, a sturdy leash, comfortable walking shoes (for you, of course) and plenty of poop bags.

Look for a collar or to fasten that fits properly and is not chewed or damaged in any way. Loyer says you also want to look for the right width on the collar or harness, as wider fabric spreads pressure over a larger area of ​​your dog’s body, which can be safer and more comfortable, especially for larger or stronger dogs.

Insuring your dog Tag ID walking is also critical.

“Some pet owners may want to attach their dog’s collar to their harness with a special clip or carabiner, in case they slip out of either,” says Loyer. “It’s a great idea to have your own dog microchipped but a microchip is no substitute for an ID tag.”