Many dog owners vary in the amount of time they dedicate to walking their pets daily, with some opting for longer strolls while others settle for quick rounds around the neighborhood due to time constraints. However, an expert warns that both excessive and insufficient walks can be detrimental to dogs, regardless of their age or breed.
Veterinarian Nichola Rous, also known as @drnicolerous.vet on TikTok, shared guidance on the ideal duration of daily walks for dogs. According to her, puppies require “five minutes of exercise per month of age, twice daily.” For instance, a four-month-old puppy should have two 20-minute exercise sessions daily to fulfill their needs, which can include walks, backyard activities, and interactive games.
Concerning adult dogs, Rous suggests engaging them in 30 to 60 minutes of exercise twice a day, though certain breeds such as border collies may demand more outdoor time compared to smaller breeds like chihuahuas. Similarly, senior dogs should also receive 30 to 60 minutes of exercise twice daily, focusing on low-impact activities to preserve their joint health, including considering hydrotherapy as an option.
Rous emphasizes the importance of sustaining mental stimulation for dogs, even those with arthritis, to ensure their cognitive well-being remains intact. She advises dog owners to research breed-specific exercise requirements to determine the appropriate walking regimen for their pets.
User responses to Rous’ recommendations varied, with one highlighting walking their 21-year-old dog once or twice a week for shorter durations. In contrast, another user detailed their consistent daily walks for their five-month-old pup, adjusting the duration based on daily plans to prevent excess energy. Additionally, a third user described their senior dog’s routine of frequent shorter walks throughout the day due to aversion to the backyard.
Supporting Rous’ advice, the Kennel Club advocates for walking dogs twice daily, with a minimum of one walk daily as a standard. They stress the necessity of regular exercise for dogs, aligning with government guidelines of at least 30 minutes of daily physical activity, with breed-specific variations in exercise requirements.
In summary, maintaining a balanced walking routine tailored to a dog’s age, breed, and individual needs is crucial for their overall health and well-being.