Dog Exercise: How Much Do Dogs Need?
We don’t have a canine surgeon general providing daily exercise requirements for dogs, but your dog requires some type of daily exercise. That’s for sure.
Dog Exercises
Walks
When we think of exercise, walking usually comes to mind. Usually two 30-minute walks daily provide plenty of physical exercise. Your dog is able to get fresh air and lots of mental stimulation for your dog (sniffing and exploring). Jogging is good too. However, veterinarians recommend jogging and running. After dogs turn two years old, their bone growth plates need to close before engaging in strenuous exercise.
Chase in the Yard
Play a game of chase, meaning your dog chases you instead of the other way around. Hide from your dog and call her name. When she finds you, celebrate! Not only is this great exercise, but it also serves as mental stimulation, builds a beautiful “come when called” cue and strengthens your bond.
Food Puzzles
Exercise your dog’s brain too! In a pinch, you can sneak in several food puzzle opportunities throughout the day. Feed meals using a Kong Wobbler and provide low calorie treats stuffed into Kongs.
Nose Work Dog Games
On rainy and cold days, hide bits of hot dogs instead of a box and mix the food box within other empty boxes. Your dog will use his nose to search and find the hidden hot dogs and have a blast doing it. Practice several times and end the game. It’s exhausting for your dog. It’s hard work using your nose. 🙂
READ MORE: Does Exercise Relieve Excess Energy in Dogs?
Living with an easily excited Rottweiler and an always energetic Mini Bull Terrier, I pondered if exercising my dogs would really relieve their excess energy. Group class clients were asking me this exact question too. They would walk, jog or run their adolescent dogs for three to four hours per day (divided up) plus daily sessions at the dog park, yet their dogs still had tons of energy. Hum, what’s going on?