Daily walks are a cornerstone of dog ownership, but how long should they really last? According to a veterinary expert, the answer isn't one-size-fits-all and depends critically on your dog's life stage and breed.
The Puppy Exercise Rule: Five Minutes Per Month
Vet Dr Nicole Rous, sharing her advice on TikTok, outlined a clear formula for puppies. The guideline is five minutes of exercise per month of age, twice daily. This means a four-month-old puppy would need around 20 minutes of activity, twice a day.
Dr Rous emphasised that this exercise time isn't just for leashed walks. It includes all forms of exertion, such as indoor play and racing around the garden, which all contribute to their daily physical needs.
Tailoring Walks For Adult And Senior Dogs
For adult dogs, the requirements become more varied. On average, they need between 30 and 60 minutes of exercise per day. However, highly active breeds like Border Collies may require a substantial one to two hours to stay content and healthy.
Conversely, more sedentary breeds may be perfectly happy with two shorter walks of around 20 minutes each. For older, senior dogs, the 30 to 60-minute range still applies, but the type of exercise is paramount. Low-impact activities are essential to protect their ageing joints.
Dr Rous advised considering the walking surface and exploring options like hydrotherapy. She also stressed the importance of maintaining consistent exercise for senior dogs, even those with arthritis, and highlighted that keeping their minds active is equally crucial.
Dog Owners Share Their Routines
The vet's video sparked hundreds of responses from dog owners comparing their own routines. One owner of a 21-year-old dog commented that their pet is walked only once or twice a week for about 20 minutes. In contrast, another owner of a five-month-old puppy reported daily walks of 45 minutes to an hour, noting that less exercise leads to restless behaviour at home.
This discussion underscores that while general guidelines are invaluable, paying attention to your own dog's energy levels and health is the key to a perfect walking schedule.
