The Right Kind of Exercise for Dogs at Every Age
Puppies should not run long distances, adults need 30 to 60 minutes a day, and seniors do better with short regular walks. How to exercise a dog at each age without causing injury.
Short answer: Most healthy adult dogs need 30 to 60 minutes of activity a day. Puppies do better with short bouts of play several times a day rather than sustained hard exercise. Senior dogs should ease off in intensity, with short regular walks instead.
Exercise does more than manage body weight. It also benefits a dog's mental health and general behaviour.
Puppies
Focus on short bouts of play several times a day rather than sustained hard exercise, because bones and joints are still developing. Long distance running or jumping too high at this age can increase the risk of injury.
Adults
Healthy medium to large breed dogs usually need 30 to 60 minutes of activity a day, split between walking and play that engages both body and mind, such as working on simple commands alongside the physical activity.
Seniors
Ease off the intensity. Favour short regular walks, or swimming, over occasional bursts of hard exercise. If arthritis is already present, ask your veterinarian what form of exercise is appropriate.
Why the environment matters
Safe open space makes a real difference to the quality of exercise. Dogs that get to run in a natural setting usually show more relaxed behaviour than dogs confined to a small area all the time.
At Hug & Heal we have the largest garden in the Ratchaphruek area, designed so dogs can be active outdoors safely. It pairs well with our day care service, where dogs socialise and exercise under the supervision of our team.
Frequently asked questions
Q: Do small breeds need as much exercise as large breeds?
A: Not the same amount, in either duration or type. Small breeds usually need less time exercising, but still need regular daily activity. Age also has to be taken into account, along with specific cautions, such as flat faced breeds being at risk of heat stroke.
Q: How should a dog with joint problems exercise?
A: Exercise is very important in this situation, to maintain muscle mass and slow degeneration. It needs to be low impact, such as swimming, an underwater treadmill, or slow walking, while avoiding slippery floors. Ask your veterinarian to plan activity that suits your individual dog's condition.