Just like you dog parents exercise your self from time to time, so do our dog needs exercise to stay fit and healthy. A good exercise routine not only serve as fun or a way of exhausting your pets, it can also help prevent obesity, build strong joints and muscles, improve heart health, and create great bonding time.
Note that as you create a workout time for your dog, remember to consider the ideal amount of exercise your dog needs as dogs exercise needs and energy level varies based on several factors. Explore various factors that can influence their exercise needs to ensure your furry friend stays active and fit.
Also read: Dog Sports and Recreation for Dogs
Factors That Determines a Dog’s Exercise Requirements
Dogs are different, so have different traits and personality, and their differences is also applicable to their exercise requirements. We would be providing a general guideline about various factors that can determine how much exercise a dog needs. A dog’s need for both physical and mental activity generally depends on their breed, age, health, and personality.
Breed
The breed of dog is the number one factor that usually affects how much exercise they need. Take for example, a pug or large mastiff may be happy to relax at home for long periods, while more active breeds like Border collies, Siberian huskies or Jack Russell terriers might exhibit some unwanted behaviors if they don’t get enough exercise required by them.
Different dog breeds can handle exercise differently. For example, flat-faced dogs like pugs and the French bulldog may have trouble breathing due to their short nose and can easily overheat if they exercise too much. A pug is fine with a 20-to-30-minute walk, while a husky and other energetic breed would needs nothing less than an hour of exercise per day to use up their energy.
Age
The age bracket of your dog also play a significant role in determining how much exercise they need or can handle. Young puppies who are often full of energy for an example should be focused on short, playful bouts of activity. These periods of exercise can help them develop their physical fitness and burn off excess energy and many vets would suggest five minutes of exercise for every month of a puppy’s age, ideally repeated once or twice each day. Engaging in varied activities, such as fetch or gentle tug-of-war, can make these exercise sessions enjoyable and beneficial for your puppy’s development.
Also read: Fun and Engaging Ways to Play With Your Dog
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Engaging in intense exercise can lead to potential harm to a young dog’s growth plates, so It’s important to avoid high-intensity activities like running, jogging, or hiking, until they reach certain developmental milestones ( 18 to 24 months old for larger breeds and 12 to 18 months for smaller breeds ).
Don’t forget about senior dogs! You might be wondering that stopping exercise for older dogs is best for them but you can be mistaken. Check if your dog has any health issues like arthritis and adjust their activities. Senior dogs usually benefit from low-intensity exercise like short gentle walks.
Health Status
The health status of your dog can also be a factor that helps determine the expectations of their exercise needs, However some health problems can make it harder for your dog to exercise. There are some common health issues that might change how much exercise your dog needs:
- Arthritis
- Respiratory disease
- Heart disease
- Obesity
If your dog is dealing with a chronic health condition, it’s essential to consult with your veterinarian before establishing an exercise routine. They can help identify the types, intensity, and duration of exercise that are appropriate for your pet’s condition, as well as suggest modifications if needed to prevent any potential strain or injury.
Personality
It’s important to know that each dog is different and every dog has their own unique personality and temperament. For instance, while some dog of same breed may enjoy lounging around the house, others might thrive on high-energy activities like running.
When determining the appropriate amount of exercise for your dog, consider their individual needs for social interaction, mental and physical activity to ensure they get a balanced routine that supports their health and well-being.
Also read: Tests to Predict Puppy Temperament and Personality
General Exercise Guidelines for Dogs
- Your dog should be exercised every day or once every two days, it depends as short daily exercise is better than a long exercise once weekly.
- Aim for at least 20-to-30-minute of exercise or 1 hr or more depending on the dog’s exercise needs we have listed above.
- Consult your vet for specific exercise recommendations and restrictions for your growing puppy.
- Pay attention to the weather as extremely hot or freezing weather or surface can be dangerous for your dog.
- You can take water along side with you on walks during hot and/or humid days.
- Walking and running aren’t the only ways to keep your dog active, other exercises that are good for dogs are Playing fetch, tug-of-war, and Swimming.
Signs Your Dog Isn’t Getting Enough Exercise
Mostly concerned with activity and energetic dogs. If you’re unsure whether your active dog is not getting enough exercise, check their behavior and health as they can be the best clues.
Behavioral Issues
If you have an energetic dog and they aren’t given enough exercise, they can start to develop behavior problems, whining, barking, pacing, displaying destructive behavior, and soiling the house. If your dog chews on things they shouldn’t, or acts in ways that they normally don’t act or frequently heading to the door to go outside, they likely need more exercise and attention.
Health Problems
Dogs that don’t get enough exercise can develop health problems like obesity and arthritis. If you see that your dog is having health issues, take them to a veterinarian. Don’t just assume they need more exercise.
Signs Your Dog Is Being over Exercise
- Trying to stop and lie down while exercising
- Heavy panting
- Excessive drooling
- Reddened gums and tongue
- Stiffness and limping after exercising.
Conclusion
Your dog needs daily exercise, and it’s important to create a routine that fits their individual needs. I’d you are a busy type that’s is not always around, then you can consider hiring a dog walker to exercise them. If you’re unsure about how much exercise your dog needs, talk to your veterinarian.
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