How often should I walk my dog?

Offering affection and amusement, dogs are fantastic companions. It is important to return the love you receive by taking good care of your canine companions. Dogs rely on their owners for many things, including maintaining their health and wellbeing.

Making sure your dog gets enough exercise is paramount in ensuring it is both physically and mentally healthy. As a dog owner, it is your responsibility to ensure that your dog is walked often enough. But just how often is often enough?

Read on for guidance to help you determine how often your dog should be walked.

How often you should walk your dog

It can be difficult to know how regularly your dog needs walking. The ideal number and duration of walks for your dog depends on their breed, age, and ability, as well as the time of year and the weather conditions.

To keep your dog healthy, walking should be part of their daily routine. Typically, most dogs need to be walked at least once or twice per day, unless you are told otherwise by your vet.

Dog breeds that require more exercise

Many high-energy breeds will need more exercise than other breeds. These include Dalmations, Irish setters, Weimaraners, labrador retrievers, and Siberian huskies.

High-energy dogs will typically need three or four walks or at least an hour of exercise per day. These dogs would likely love to go for a hike or run.

Sheepdogs, such as shelties and collies, and cattle dogs need to be stimulated both physically and mentally, through not just exercise but also games and training. These dogs will typically need at least four walks or two hours of activity per day.

Jack Russells, Patterdales, and other terriers, as well as gundogs and hounds, should be walked at least three times or have at least one hour of exercise per day. As well as exercise, these dogs would also benefit from cognitive activities to stimulate their minds.

Benefits of walking your dog

A brisk walk with your dog is a great way for you to bond with your dog, for you both to get some exercise, and for your dog to burn off some energy. A slower walk allows your dog to sniff and explore which is great for their mental health.

Walking your dog not only benefits them but can also have a positive impact on your health and wellbeing, too. Regular walks will strengthen your bond with your dog, can reduce stress in both you and your dog, decrease loneliness, and boost emotional health.

If you need help determining how often your dog needs to be walked or how much exercise they need, seek guidance from a professional such as your veterinarian, a behaviourist, or a trainer.

For expert advice and training, WitsEnd is here to help. We have a team of professionals who will help you, through training and expert advice.

Working with people from all over the country, we have had over 2000 success stories! To book an appointment or for more information, please call us on 0116 244 2455.