How Long Should I Be Walking My Dog?

Taking your pal for daily walks is beneficial for many reasons. Walking provides exercise as well as mental and emotional benefits. Also, it can alleviate boredom and lead to a happier dog all around. Walks provide mental stimulation along with other techniques. Likewise, walking provides all of the same benefits to you! If you are unsure of how long to take your pooch for a walk, just keep reading.

How Long Should I Walk My Dog?

All dogs are different and require different amounts of exercise and stimulation. Therefore, the amount of time you should spend walking your dog depends on your pup’s age, breed, and other factors.

Age

Puppies

Though puppies have a lot of energy, they lack stamina. Puppies should be taken on frequent, short walks to help with potty and leash training. Aiming for 5-10 minutes at least 3 times a day is best.

Adult Dogs

Adult dogs can and should go on longer walks than puppies. Most are eager to go on as many walks as you will take them on. You should aim for at least 2 walks a day. Throw in some extra walks if you have the time to keep things fun!

Senior Dogs

Senior dogs can go for longer walks than puppies but are often shorter than the walks they took when they were younger. Shorter walks are necessary to prevent joint and muscle injuries. It depends on the stamina of your pooch but you should aim for 20-30 minutes of walking 1-2 times per day.

Breed

Small Breeds

Small breeds include Chihuahuas, Maltese, Papillons, Pomeranians, and Yorkies. These pups need shorter walks because their little legs have to work harder to cover the same distance as you. You should take 1 or 2 walks a day ranging from 15-30 minutes. Them, you can gradually increase the length of the walks depending on your dog’s stamina.

Flat-Faced Breeds

Bulldogs, French Bulldogs, Boxers, and Pugs have pushed-in faces and may also require shorter walks. This is because their cute flat faces make it harder to breathe, especially during exercise. Aiming for 1-2, 15-30 minute walks is best. The length of these walks can be stretched as your pal becomes used to these walks and their stamina improves.

Medium to Large Breeds

Breeds such as the Beagle, English Springer Spaniel, Golden Retriever, and Labrador are medium to large breeds that can usually walk for longer periods. As long as your pal is in good health, you can walk your pooch for 30-60 minutes 2 times a day. You can increase the length of your walks as much as your dog is comfortable with.

Athletic Breeds

Australian Shepherds, Border Collies, and Huskies, among others, are athletic and built for speed and stamina. These breeds need longer walks and may require extra exercise to keep them calm and happy in the house. These breeds should also walk twice a day for 30-60 minutes and the walks can be altered to fit your pal’s needs and stamina.

When Should I Walk My Dog?

Though you can take your furry friend for a walk at any time, the morning and early evenings are best. These times take advantage of the cooler temperatures. You should never walk your four-legged friend when it is too hot out for them. Additionally, your pooch can exercise and go potty before you leave for work and when you come home. Remember, always stop before your pal becomes overtired.

Now get out there and enjoy spending time outside and enjoying the fresh air with your companion!