All dogs need regular exercise (just like you). Quality exercise helps your dog strengthen muscles and to get a bit of cardio in, keeping them fit and (hopefully) adding years to their life expectancy as a result. Of course, knowing that your dog needs exercise is only the half of it, as many dog owners are unsure how often their dog should go for a walk. In this post, learn about the benefits of regular dog walking for your do and find out about the factors that influence how often your dog should go for a walk.
Specific Factors to Consider When Determining How Often Should You Walk Your Dog
How often you should walk your dog can depends on many factors. Learn more about them below.
Age
By definition, the younger the dog, the more energy it has to burn off while walking. In many cases, getting some of that energy out for younger puppies is crucial. It allows the dog to then relax once back home. It also promotes better sleep.
Keep in mind that dogs who are closer to the middle of their lifetime, typically 5 to 8 years old or older might not be able to handle the same level of exercise. Additionally, some younger dogs may end up walking sideways as they are still developing.
Breed
Particularly hyper or energetic breeds just need more exercise. These breeds include any working dogs or dogs used for sport. Examples include heelers and pointers. In fact, these dogs often crave the extra exercise and need it to feel comfortable. Lap-dogs, in contrast, require less exercise and may not want to exert themselves at all.
Energy Level
While general rules seem to apply most of the time, they are not perfect. Sometimes a dog that is actually a very hyper breed just does not enjoy long walks. While breed and age can certainly impact the exercise needs of a dog, you dog also has individual needs that will not always fit perfectly their breed or age. Watch your dog while you walk to assess their needs and make appropriate accommodations while your out.
Frequency of Walks
You might still be wondering how often should you walk your dog. In general, most dogs can put up with at least 20 to 30 minutes of walking on a daily basis. If you have not taken your dogs for regular walks up until this point, you can start with just 10 minutes to get your dog used to going for walks. As the dog seems to get used to the idea, you can extend the walk to 40 to 60 minutes at a time or more, depending on the comfort level of the dog. Some dogs, particularly those that are very hyper, can withstand or even want to hike or walk for 2 hours at a time whenever possible.
The Benefits of Regularly Walking Your Dog
Better Health
Of course, the most obvious general benefit of walking is overall physical health. Just like humans, walking helps prevent dogs from being overweight, or developing cardio-vascular problems in the future. It can also improve your dog’s overall health and digestive health. Regular walks may also help dogs with joint issues and arthritis, as well.
Better Health
Of course, the most obvious general benefit of walking is overall physical health. Just like humans, walking helps prevent dogs from being overweight, or developing cardio-vascular problems in the future. It can also improve your dog’s overall health and digestive health. Regular walks may also help dogs with joint issues and arthritis, as well.
Mental Health Benefits
In addition to the physical benefits of walking, walking can also provide your dog with ample mental stimulation, as well. Walking regularly will keep your dog’s mind alert and sharp. You can increase this benefit by walking to new places as often as possible. In addition, regular walks can help you limit your dog’s anxiety if the dog is regularly anxious or is particularly hyper.
More Socializing
Dogs are social creatures and want to interact with new people and animals, alike. Going for regular walks can help your dog socialize with other dogs, as well as help your dog learn appropriate responses to varying social interactions and environments. You can think of walking as a type of social learning exercise for your dog.
Enhanced Understanding of Status
Walking on a regular basis can actually help your dog better understand social structure. Leading the walk, for example, can help cement the idea that you are his leader. Furthermore, by using a casual walk as the exercise, the learning is done in a way that is comfortable and is understandable for your dog. Over the course of your walks together, your dog will gradually learn to follow your lead.
Talk With Paw Pals For More Info On How Often Should You Walk Your Dog
For more information on how often should you walk your dog, as well as other tips on keeping your dog healthy, contact Paw Pals today.
