Are you giving your four-legged friend the right amount of daily exercise? A veterinary expert has issued crucial guidance on exactly how long you should be walking your dog, warning that many owners may not be doing enough.
The Golden Rule for Puppy Exercise
Vet Dr Nicole Rous stresses that exercise needs vary dramatically, starting with the youngest canines. For puppies, she advocates a simple but vital formula. The rule is five minutes of exercise per month of age, twice a day. This means a four-month-old puppy needs around 20 minutes of activity, twice daily.
"That includes walks and things like that, but it also includes exercise in the back yard and games you're playing," Dr Rous explained. This controlled approach helps protect developing joints while fulfilling a young dog's needs.
Tailoring Walks for Adult and Senior Dogs
For adult dogs, the picture becomes more nuanced. The average is 30 to 60 minutes of exercise per day, but breed is a major factor. A high-energy working breed like a Border Collie may require one to two hours, whereas a more sedentary breed might thrive on two shorter 20-minute walks.
Senior dogs, similarly, benefit from 30 to 60 minutes of daily activity, but the type of exercise is paramount. "The type of exercise is really important to look after their joints," Dr Rous advised. She recommends considering low-impact options and being mindful of walking surfaces.
Incorporating Low-Impact Exercise
For older dogs, the vet suggests exploring therapies like hydrotherapy. "This is a really good exercise for older dogs to include in their regime," she said, highlighting the value of activities that maintain fitness without straining ageing bodies.
Most canine experts agree that a typical dog needs a walk of 20 to 30 minutes, with at least one walk per day being essential. However, two walks per day is the ideal for most, depending on breed, age, and health. The key takeaway is to observe your own pet's energy levels and adjust accordingly. When in doubt, researching your specific breed or consulting a professional vet is always the best course of action.
