How Much Playtime Does My Puppy Need?

Puppies can sure be a handful. These adorable balls of fluff are known for their boundless energy. But how much exercise do puppies really need? It’s based on a variety of factors. Keep reading to figure out how much playtime your pup needs!

Breed

Different breeds have different energy levels. For example, border collies and golden retrievers are little bundles of energy when puppies can benefit from long play times. More lethargic breeds, such as English bulldogs, might need a shorter playtime. Breed size also influences their level of play. Over-exercise can cause orthopedic issues in larger dogs. Make sure to do research on your individual breed. Some breeds need more mental stimulation, such as German Shepherds.

Age

Puppies need different amounts of exercise as they get older. An easy way to determine how much exercise your pooch needs is the five-minute rule. Multiple experts agree that an easy way to determine the amount of exercise your puppy needs is to multiply your pup’s age in months by five. That’s how much your pup needs to exercise per day.

Individual needs

However, determining how much specific exercise your pup needs is not always easy. Taking your pup to the vet is a great way to figure out how much exercise your pup needs. You can also contact experts on your puppy’s breed. They can tell you how much exercise your pup specifically needs. The type of exercise might vary by dog and their personality. One dog might prefer running around, while others might play tug of war. Pay attention to your dog’s likes and dislikes when deciding how much exercise your pooch needs. Experiment with different types of games and exercises.

Each puppy has a different playtime preference. However, you can decide on basic guidelines based on your dog’s breed, size, and age. Make sure to also pay attention to your pups’ individual preferences while playing! These will allow your pup to have the perfect playtime.