Do you know how often you should walk your dog?
Just like humans, your dog needs to exercise in order to maintain a healthy weight, feel happy and confident, and help prevent behavioral problems, such as anxiety or aggression.
But how much exercise is ideal for your pup? Read on to find out more about the benefits of walking your dog and the recommended frequency!
Is Walking Good Exercise?
Daily walks for dogs are not just a way to expend energy, but are an essential part of what it means to “be” a dog.
Dogs explore their environment, learn more about their surroundings, and become more confident through daily walks.
Also, daily walks help maintain a consistent routine, which is comforting for any dog and helps prevent behavioral issues.
Needless to say, frequent and consistent walks help keep your dog in good physical and mental health!
When is it Safe to Walk a Puppy?
About one week after your puppy’s second round of vaccinations (around 12 weeks of age), you can start to potty train and socialize your pup outside on short walks. Just be sure to avoid unfamiliar dogs and any dirt patches with hidden urine or feces.
Read More: At What Age Can Puppies Go Outside?
In addition, puppies cannot regulate their body temperature as well as adult dogs, so be mindful of the temperature and walking hot surfaces such as asphalt. And on cold days, only keep them outside for short periods of time.
Read More: How To Properly Socialize a Puppy
How Much Exercise does your Dog Need?
Puppies
Puppies don’t have as much stamina as adults, and need bathroom breaks more often. Thus, you won’t be able to go very far, but you should go out more times a day with them.
It is necessary to teach them to walk on a leash, without pulling or biting. If possible, practice beforehand, in your home or backyard.
Read More: How Long Can Puppies Hold Their Bladder?
Adults
If your dog isn’t in top shape, start with short walks for 10-15 minutes a day. See if he can keep up with your walk and slow down if necessary.
As he improves his conditioning, you can add more times a day, as well as increase the duration of the walks.
Senior
Senior dogs should be walked frequently as it is excellent exercise to keep them fit, active, and happy. They can follow the same instructions as adult dogs, but at a slower pace.
Watch out for dogs with reduced mobility, joint problems, or arthritis. Aim for regular vet visits to help keep your elderly pup in shape.
Tips for Walking your Dog
Daily walks help your pup practice new experiences so that he feels more confident and at ease. After all, if you want your pup to be well-behaved so that you can enjoy the walks, you need to practice frequently.
If you have an athletic dog and you want him to go jogging or cycling with you, wait until he is at least a year old.
Read More: The Best Way to Socialize Your Puppy
How Often Should You Walk Your Dog? Final conclusions
Walking is not only excellent exercise for us humans and dogs, but also a way to strengthen the bonds of friendship between you two.
In addition, walks help keep your pup fit, confident, happy. And help make him a more relaxed companion in your home.
Be sure to take regular walks with your dog. And if your routine is too busy, consider hiring a dog walking service to help!
Read More: How to Choose a Professional Dog Walker in Astoria
Dog Walker Astoria
If you require help providing socialization opportunities for your dog and you live in Astoria, you can enroll your pup in daily Socialization Walks with Buster and Whiskers. We offer daily 1-hour Socialization Walks. If your pup is under-socialized, we will work with them to help desensitize them and get them ready for our Group Socialization Walks. You must live within our Astoria coverage area. In addition, your dog must be up-to-date on all required vaccinations. Laying a strong foundation in socialization is the best gift you can give your pup for a long and happy life together!
Buster and Whiskers is The #1 Dog Walking Service in Astoria, NY. If your dog needs more exercise or social interaction, enroll your pup in daily Socialization Walks with us. Contact us for a professional and reliable Dog Walker in Astoria! Follow us on Instagram!
