How much exercise does a dog need?
Doggy Day Care at the Willows
Every dog needs to be walked on a daily basis, but how much exercise does your dog actually need? The number and length of walks for your furry friend will depend on their age, size and breed. However, it’s just as important not to over-exercise your dog and to be cautious when using ball throwers, as this can cause injuries.
Walking and exercising dogs, from puppies to older dogs
Dogs need regular walks, although the intensity of exercise should be adjusted as they age. Active or working breeds like Spaniels, Border Collies and Labradors might need between 1 – 2 hours a day. In comparison, flat-faced breeds like Pugs and Bulldogs may only need 30-min walks because of breathing and overheating issues. In the summertime, it’s important to avoid exercising any type of dog in hot weather to reduce the risk of heatstroke.
Puppies generally need short, gentle sessions as too much exercise could affect growing joints and their overall development. Likewise, it’s important to reduce any high-intensity exercise for older dogs, such as fetching sticks and balls, to avoid joint injuries. Conditions like arthritis are common in older dogs and they may need shorter walks, more rest, and low-impact playtime.
One way to check if your dog is struggling with exercise is to monitor their behaviour afterwards. If they start slowing down or they seem stiff after exercise, then it’s important to ensure gentler exercise. Scale back any chasing games – for example, ball throwing.
Danger of ball throwing for dogs
Many people are unaware of the issues associated with throwing a ball to a dog, especially gadgets like ball throwers. Problems can arise when a dog moves very quickly in a split second, including twisting and turning to grab the ball. Fast ball throwing can cause strain to a dog’s joints, causing them to overstretch or get injured. Over time, this can take its toll on your dog’s body and as they get older, this could result in limping or a more serious injury.
Different ways to exercise your dog
High-impact activities like ball throwing shouldn’t be the only way to exercise your dog. Give them both physical and mental stimulation, such as swimming and exploration games using their sense of smell. Scent work, sniffing walks, search games, snuffle mats and food puzzle toys can help to calm and engage your canine companion, especially older dogs. For more tips on how to manage your dog’s health and wellbeing, see our blog page.
Exercise your dog at our doggy day care centre
One way to keep your dog healthy and stimulated is to consider a doggy daycare service. At Doggy Daycare at the Willows, our Doggy Daycare Assistants have been fully trained to care for a variety of dog breeds. Your furry friend will be placed with dogs of a similar size and temperament, so they can exercise and enjoy enriching games. Our purpose-built centre has paddocks, a sand school, paddling pool and an air conditioned, heated indoor playroom.
Find out more about our doggy daycare centres by getting in touch for a chat with our team.
Thank you for reading this month blog – How much exercise does a dog need?
Sources:
https://companyofanimals.com/uk/dog-exercise-requirements-by-breed/
https://www.petmd.com/dog/general-health/signs-your-dog-getting-too-much-exercise
https://www.pdsa.org.uk/pet-help-and-advice/looking-after-your-pet/puppies-dogs/how-much-exercise-does-your-dog-need
https://edinburghholisticdogs.co.uk/the-hidden-dangers-of-throwing-a-ball-for-your-dog/