Frequently asked questions about walking your dog How long should I walk my dog for?
The government recommends that we get at least 30 minutes of exercise each day and this is something that everybody can achieve – and go beyond – on a daily dog walk. The amount of exercise your dog needs will vary according to its breed, but every dog should have at least one walk a day, often two.
Refer to our Breeds A to Z to find out more about the exercise needs of your chosen breed. How good is walking for me and my dog?
Although dog walking is not a high-intensity workout, it is great for cardiovascular development, strengthening of muscles and bones and lowering blood pressure. Hints and tips: What do I need to remember?
Choose the right collar and lead from the offset – they need to be comfortable, well-fitted and secure
Put in the groundwork, introducing the lead with rewards and praise, and ensuring your dog is happy and comfortable on a lead
Make sure your dog has an ID tag stating your contact details – this is a legal requirement. You can purchase tags and have them engraved in our online shop
Be patient and consistent when out with your puppy on walks – remember that they are still learning!
Make sure your puppy is trained to return to you when you call their name
Always take poo bags with you and dispose of your dogs mess safely and cleanly
Know where you’re allowed to walk with your dog and check that any pitstops are dog-friendly
Take any food, treats, water and toys that you will need with you
Don’t exercise your puppy on a full stomach as this may contribute to bloat
What should I do if I lose my dog?
In the first instance you need to report your dog as missing to your local dog warden. If your dog has been picked up then it is likely to have ended up there
Notify your microchip database. If someone tries to update the details, they will notify you that this is happening
Contact websites such as Dog Lost – they can help spread the word
Social media is great at spreading the word. Be sure to attach a photo of your dog and provide the relevant details. Many dogs have been reunited with their owners through social platforms
Next, contact your local vets in the area – they too can receive dogs which have strayed away from their owners
Local rehoming centres can also receive lost dogs
Puppies vs dogs
For puppies, informal natural play is one of the most important forms of exercises, helping them to build up muscles, strengthen joints and learn how to be social and interact with others. Puppies tend to self-limit play, and will sleep a lot, but it’s important that they get that the opportunity to play and rest when they need to.
Puppies need less ‘formal’ exercise than fully grown dogs. Taking them for long walks while they’re young can overtire them. You’ll know your dog best, and the amount of exercise a dog can manage will vary between breeds and dogs, but a good rule of thumb is a ratio of five minutes of formal exercise per month of age (up to twice a day) until the puppy is fully grown i.e., 15 minutes (up to twice a day) when three months old, 20 minutes when four months old and so on. As they become older, they’ll be able to cope with larger amounts of exercise.
The Benefits of Frequent Dog Walks: Why Your Dog Needs to Be Walked!
Walking your dog provides him with a slew of health benefits (many of which, you will surely enjoy as well – let’s not forget that few humans get enough exercise themselves). Some of the most important ones include:
Exercise– Moving around and challenging your pup’s muscles helps to keep him in good shape and healthy.
Weight Control – Walks help your dog to burn off excess calories, which can help keep him trim. Obesity is a common problem among dogs, which can lead to a host of serious illnesses, including diabetes and joint disorders.
Reducing Mischievous Behaviors – Walks help to tire out your pooch and burn off excess energy, which will usually reduce the prevalence of undesirable behaviors. As they say, “A tired dog is a good dog.” The number one solution to most dog behavioral problems is simply getting your dog more exercise!
Bonding Time– Walks give you a chance to hang out with your dog and reinforce your bond. This is good for both you and your pup!
Mental Stimulation– By getting out of the house and letting your dog smell the roses (or whatever else he wants to sniff), you provide mental stimulation. This is important for your dog’s well-being and quality of life. Dogs can’t stand being cooped up inside all day – they want to be out exploring the great outdoors!
Behavioral Reinforcement– You can use walks as part of your typical training work, teaching your dog to heel and walk politely on a leash. This is not only helpful for training your dog to be well-behaved and obedient, but it is another form of mental stimulation.
Socialization– You’ll likely encounter a lot of other people and dogs while going on walks, and this can provide your pup with beneficial socialization opportunities. Dogs that aren’t properly socialized are more prone to anxiety, stress, and behavioral issues that can end up being dangerous if left unchecked. Well socialized dogs are happy dogs. Just be sure that you keep your dog on a leash and use common sense when introducing him to new people and pups.
Can you over exercise a dog?
However, we often get asked ‘Can I over exercise my dog? ‘. It’s an important question because the answer is yes, you can. Just like humans, dog’s have their limits in terms of exercise, and this varies wildly depending on the age, breed, health and the fitness level of your dog.
How Long Is It Safe To Walk Your Puppy?
But can you walk him the mile to a friend’s house? Is it safe to walk your puppy outside? Will your puppy have the energy to make it 1/2 a mile, 1 mile, 2 miles? How far can you walk a puppy?
There’s no firm rule. But generally it depends on how many vaccinations he’s had, his age, and breed.
