How Often Should I Walk My Dog?

The answer to this question changes depending on many variables such as your dog’s age, breed, weight, physical limitations/health issues, living circumstances and more. Any walking routine can be customized to fit any dog’s particular needs. Typically though, there are agreed upon guidelines for walking a healthy adult dog. Our standard recommendation is twice daily for a ranging from 15 to 60 minutes. Something that is often forgotten is that walking is not only a great physical activity for your dog, but more importantly an excellent mental exercise as well. Most dogs thrive from regular walking routines because it allows them opportunities to socialize with other dogs, see new sights, smell fresh scents, hear different noises, bond with their owner, use the restroom, improve obedience, manage weight, reduce excessive barking, maintain or improve general health, improve some trouble behaviors, decrease anxiety/hypertension and much more.
It is important to know that no two dogs are the same and you should always consider each dog’s specific needs for exercise before deciding on a walking routine. Another helpful tip is to try and keep the time of your routine as constant as possible. Regulating your dog’s exercise will help manage their behavior and give them more structure to their day. This is important because healthy consistent routines can help manage potty breaks and dietary habits, which contributes to weight management as well. This is because using walks appropriately can help you as an owner take advantage of your dog’s natural rhythm of exercising thoroughly, using the restroom while out and then bringing home a happy and hungry dog that is ready to eat their food during a meal time rather than free feed throughout the day.
Another reason walking can be so critical is contributing to your pet’s mental well-being. The stimulation a dog receives on a walk allows them to keep their mind busy on healthy activities such as following scents, tuning into sounds, listening to owner commands, learning to socialize appropriately with other dogs and much more. Many times regular walks will help improve such trouble behaviors as knocking over trash cans, going restroom in the house, excessive barking, destroying furniture and hyperactivity. Lastly, always consult your veterinarian prior to starting any walking routine and consider scheduling a physical as well to attempt to find any underlying issues.
In closing, it doesn’t matter what size your dog is, all dogs benefit from walks.
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