How Often Should You Walk Your Dog?

The question of how often should you walk your dog is essential to know for every canine owner. Dog ownership is one of the most rewarding life experiences. Their charming and mischievous character makes them excellent companion pets. Moreover, they provide unconditional love, from cuddles to playing.

But just like human beings, they need regular exercise to help them stay active and in good shape. These exercises can only be possible through regular walks. But one thing to note is that over-exercising and under-exercising can be dangerous to your doggo.

If you’ve just introduced new four-legged friends into your family, be sure to take them for a walk as it is healthy. While doing that, keep track of the number of times to walk your buddy. 

With that in mind, read on to find out essential facts about walking your dog.

dog walk

Do Different Dogs Need Different Walking Schedules?

Walking is an excellent form of exercise for your canine and yourself! However, there are a few vital things that you need to take into account. The main question to ask yourself is, how often should you walk your dog? Well, this is something that many dog owners forget to include in the dog checklist.

And it comes down to the type of breed that your puppy falls into. Different breeds have different capabilities of handling walks. For instance, toy breeds can’t handle long walks due to their small size. But, on the flip side, giant breeds can withstand long walks because they are strong.

Furthermore, some breeds are heat intolerant while others are not. Therefore, knowing your dogs’ breed will help you know which timeslots during the day are best for walking.

active dogs huskies

Activity Levels of High Energy Dog Breeds

Dogs fall into different categories, ranging from activity levels to other needs. For example, high-energy level dogs use more energy- two to three times a day and up to 30 minutes.

If your dog falls in the high-energy dog breed list, check the levels needed, limitations, and how to monitor their activity levels. By doing this, you’ll be able to raise your pup the perfect way. Here are some of the high-energy breeds.

  • Siberian Husky.
  • Afghan Hound.
  • Poodle.
  • Australian Shepherd.
  • Maltese.
  • Weimaraner.
  • Irish Setter.
  • Border Collie.

You can also include outdoor adventures such as hiking or agility training.

companion dogs on sofa

The Required Activity Level of Companion Dogs

Companion dogs are excellent pets that most owners look up to. As much as they love playing and cuddling, they don’t need too much energy. Short walks will do your Chihuahua good as they will help keep it physically fit and reduce boredom. Some other companion dog breeds include;

  • Chihuahua.
  • French Bulldog.
  • Golden Retriever.
  • Shi Tzu.
  • Irish Wolfhound.
  • American Staffordshire Terrier.
  • Pug.

How Much Exercise Does Less-Activity Dogs Need?

These dogs require fewer hours of intense activity because they exhibit less energy. However, intense exercise can lead to health problems such as breathing difficulties. Instead, use more occasional daily walks to keep them fit.

If you are a low-energy person, this is the perfect dog for you. Check out some of the breeds.

  • Chihuahua.
  • Bulldog.
  • Bullmastiff.
  • Shi Tzu.
  • Greyhound.
  • Chow chow.
  • Fren bulldog.
  • Sussex spaniel.

Which Other Outdoor Activities Can I Do With My Dog?

Apart from walking, there are other activities that you can conduct with your pupper. These activities will enable your dog to stay happy, healthy, and out of trouble. Some of the activities include hiking, biking, and jogging, among others.

But there’s one thing you have to take note of before embarking on the activities. So first, check if your buddy is in good shape to know the appropriate amount of exercise to engage in. Then, check out some of these other outdoor activities:

Jogging

Topping the list of outdoor activities is jogging. Just like walking, it plays a vital role in every dog’s life. Dogs can be great running partners, especially if you have equal amounts of energy. Be sure to use a leash to maintain close contact with your baby.

Biking

Another important outdoor activity is biking. Although it might seem impossible, it is a better activity for your four-legged friend. Dogs also love running while their owners are cycling. If you are for this outdoor activity, purchase a bicycle attachment to protect your dog.

Most of all, always take breaks to allow your dog to rest. If you put strain on your dog when it can’t handle it, it will have dire consequences.

Swimming

Swimming is another great outdoor exercise for you and your dog. It helps in containing energy as it involves few activities. On top of that, it helps in strengthening several muscles at the same time. Also, ensure that the pool is chlorinated, and don’t forget to supervise them.

Hiking

Hiking is the third great exercise for your poodle. If you are a hiker, then you are definitely on the right track. While hiking, don’t forget to carry food and water for your fur buddy, as it will help them keep hydrated and energized. Furthermore, buy a leash with flashlights to reflect light.

Camping

Camping is very exciting as it helps you relax and rewind. Moreover, it involves numerous activities, and having your dog by your side will be a perfect choice. Before embarking on your journey to camping, ensure that you get your dog a pup tent to make them feel comfortable.

Visit dog parks

Dog parks are undoubtedly the best places to take your dog. In here, they’ll be able to relax and play in the open air. Moreover, they’ll get to bond with other dogs. Ensure that the park is fenced and spacious to provide your canine friend with a conducive environment for running and jumping around.

Fetching

Fetching is a simple game that many dogs enjoy. But, running back and forth is what unleashes the fun in the game.

Why You Should Walk Your Pupper Regularly

Walking your dog regularly is essential since it enhances better dog walking habits. If your dog gets used to walking most of the time, it will maintain and adapt to the walking habits. Moreover, studies have shown that a dog’s lifespan is increased every year due to regular walking habits.

Walking your furry friend frequently will also increase its rate of daily performance. Here, the dog gets to meet new people and fellow canines. Additionally, they get to participate in other activities such as running. This helps in reducing dormancy since it develops high senses and reactions towards anything that comes around.

It also helps in regulating urinary and digestive health. For example, constipation is a common problem that most fur babies face every day. When they are taken for a walk, the range of exercises eases their digestive system.

Apart from that, they will be able to walk freely and empty their bladder anytime they want. This act will help in reducing frequent bladder infections. Regular walks also help in strengthening the skeletal muscle and tissues. As a result, your buddy will become fit, and ready to perform any exercise.

Benefits Associated with Regular Dog Walking

Many people assume that walking their dog will save them from messing in the house. But what’s more, is that it contains other benefits. Here are some of them.

Boosts the Body Condition

Walking your dog is a simple task that helps in shaping the body’s condition. When talking about body condition, the weight comes in. Dogs, too, need to have a balanced weight to perform activities well. Walking your dog frequently will help in burning calories. On top of that, you’ll be able to shed off some pounds and maintain a healthy lifestyle.

Mental Stimulation

Dogs spend a substantial amount of time in the house. So naturally, this makes them bored due to performing the same activity almost every day. However, regular walks help them in exercising both the mind and the body. Nonetheless, it helps reduce excess energy, which allows them to unleash the whole day’s stress and have a perfect sleep at night.

Helps With Socialization

Walking your dog is essential since it will help in socializing. When Like human beings, dogs tend to meet new fellows too. This is a win since your dog will learn new behaviors and confidence on the other side.

However, some dogs tend to be shy around strangers, and this might hinder socialization.

If your dogs display fear when they meet their counterparts, try and enroll them in a training class to learn different ways of interacting with other dogs.

Enhances Mutual Motivation

Walking your dog will enhance mutual motivation. By this, it means that you’ll be able to create a daily habit. To add, you will depend on each other and encourage each other for daily walks.

Creates Happiness

Who wants a dull canine companion? Well, daily walks are the best exercise to create a happy bond. Watching your dog run around and play will make you feel satisfied. Moreover, a strong bond will be created since both of you share a common interest while enjoying the scenery and wildlife around you.

Improves Heart Health

Heart health is significant in your life and that of your dog. Walking with your dog stimulates the heart’s performance, reduces cholesterol, and improves the heartbeat. Besides that, your dog will also stay fit and healthier.

The Difference Between Potty Breaks and Dog Walks

Different dogs have different needs. For example, some may need more walks while some more potty breaks. Potty breaks are dog bathroom schedules to enable your fur baby to relieve himself outside after every meal.

On the other hand, dog walks are fundamental activities meant to take your dog’s outside for some minutes to relax and perform numerous activities suitable for their health.

The Best Time of Day to Walk You’re Doggo

After getting your new puppy, all you want to do is to go out and stroll all over the neighborhood. However, you don’t know that there are specific times of the day to walk your pup. For that reason, here is a dog walking schedule for your Pupper’s walks.

Morning

Morning walks should last between 30 minutes to one hour. Depending on the energy of the dog, you can go up to one hour. This is a perfect time since the street is not very busy. Moreover, their senses are sensitive at this time and will help them relax and release stress.

Noon

Another ideal time to walk your dog is at noon. This time of the day is warmer, especially in summer. Therefore, few walks are recommended. Moreover, you can walk them in the shade to reduce too much temperature for about ten to fifteen minutes.

Afternoon

The afternoon is the preferred time for many dog owners but might not be the perfect time for those in cities since it is congested with people and other various activities. This might shift the stress of dogs and cause uncomfortable reactions.

For this reason, take a short walk between 15 to 30 minutes. If it is impossible, look for a quiet area or one with fewer activities. By doing this, your dog will enjoy a perfect time with you.

Night

Closing the list of the best time to walk your dog is nighttime. This is the time when activities are less, and few people are available on the street. Besides that, it’s the best time to prepare your dog for perfect sleep because it will be able to relax and unwind the stress of the day.

While doing this, don’t forget to take a quiet stroll to give your buddy a humble time to sniff and discover everything in the surrounding environment. This time can work best for owners who live in cities or busy streets.

While doing this, keep in mind that walks must always be simultaneous; this will help create a regular pattern and help them anticipate when they’ll go out.

Our Top Dog Walking Tips

Waking your dog is not all about leisure. It is vital to their health and well-being. Starting a walking regime earlier is beneficial since they will learn faster and look forward to more walks during their adult stage.

For that reason, here are our top dog walking tips to help you have a good time with your canine friend.

  • Allow your dog to sniff around to boost their mental health.
  • Always pick up your dog’s poop, and if it’s impossible, carry poop bags.
  • Carry plenty of water for your dog to regulate their temperature.
  • Avoid hot pavements during summer.
  • Wear reflective gear for evening or night walks.
  • Ensure that your dog has a collar and ID tags for identification.

Remember to start with easy walks and preserve the long walks when they are mature enough.

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