How much exercise does a dog need everyday [2023]

Just like humans, dogs also need exercise, and one of the things that make this easier is getting them the right types of dog treadmill. Physical activity helps them stay fit and healthy by encouraging physical and mental activity. It also helps to reduce their risk of developing obesity, diabetes, arthritis, and other health risks. But how much exercise does a dog need?

So, how much exercise does my dog need? A dog’s exercise routine depends on a few factors, such as the dog’s breed, age, weight, and overall health condition. For example, a young puppy will need more exercise than an adult dog. And small dogs like brachycephalic breeds will need less exercise than large breeds like German Shepherd.

Most dogs need at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise every day. This can be a combination of a slow to a brisk walk, running, playing, and other activities that get them moving. If your dog is very active, it may need even more physical activity.

So are you asking how much exercise does a dog need? We have your answer plus a short review of types of dog treadmills to help you choose the best equipment for your furry friend.

Exercise by Dog’s Age

Depending on the pup’s age,  different levels of exercise are appropriate. Here are different dog age groups and how much exercise they need.

1. Exercise for Puppies

For puppies under six months old, moderate playtime with short bursts is all that’s needed to keep the dog happy and healthy. This means a few short sessions of running around and playing with toys. They don’t necessarily need a trip to the dog park or a long walk around the block.

Puppies this age also shouldn’t be left alone for too long. They’re still learning to socialize and need human interaction to stay balanced. If you can’t be with them always, take them to doggy daycare, so they don’t experience separation anxiety. And even though they seem to have more energy, their bodies are still developing, and very long exercise sessions can be harmful.

2. Exercise for Adult Dogs

As dogs reach adulthood, they can start to handle more exercise. Most adult dogs need at least 30 minutes of exercise a day, but other dogs may require up to two hours. The duration highly depends on the breed.

High energy breeds such as  German Shepherds and Labrador Retrievers may require more exercise than docile breeds like the Basset Hound or the Shih Tzu.

Dog’s health conditions, age, and fitness level will also play a role in how much exercise your dog needs. Older dogs or those with arthritis, hip dysplasia, or respiratory disease may only be able to handle shorter walks. Healthy ones in their prime may be able to run for miles. You can also consider getting them suitable types of dog treadmills to keep the dog moving at home.

3. Exercise for Senior Dogs

Senior dogs may not look as energetic and motivated to participate in various activities. However, they still need enough exercise to remain healthy and active. Exercise helps them maintain muscle tone and a healthy weight. It also strengthens their heart and lungs and keeps their joints flexible.

The best way to approach exercising your geriatric dogs is to start slow and gradually increase the intensity and duration of the activity. If your adult dog has been inactive for a while, begin with short walks around the block or introduce them to a simple dog exercise wheel. You can also stimulate the dog’s mind by trying simple fetch games or walks in the park. As your dog gets more comfortable exercising, you can increase the time and distance of the walks.

Benefits of Regular Exercise to Dog Owners

Dog exercise does not just benefit your pets but you as well. There are many benefits owners get from getting their dogs to exercise. They include;

1. Improving Your Mood

Spending time with your furry friends outdoors is a wonderful way to improve your mood. Walking in nature has been shown to lower stress levels, ease anxiety, and help improve your overall mood.

2. Getting Some Fresh Air

We all know that feeling of being cooped up indoors all day. Walking your dog gives you an excuse to get some fresh air and Vitamin D. Some time outside improves energy levels and overall health for both you and your pet.

3. Exercising With a Friend

One of the best parts about dog walking is that it’s a great way to meet new people. Walking your dog can help you break the ice and start conversations with other dog owners in your neighborhood if you’re shy. You may even make some new friends.

4. Improves Balance

A sense of balance deteriorates as you grow older. But if you own a dog and regularly take them out to exercise, this process may be slowed down. Exercising your dog requires you to use different muscles than you normally would. This helps improve your sense of balance and coordination.

Exercise Benefits to the Dogs

There are countless reasons why you need to take your furry friend out for a walk, jog, or run. Many benefits come with all the exercise they get, and your dog will love you for it.

1. Keep their Joints Active

Exercising with your dog is a wonderful way to keep your pet’s joints active. This is important since it can prevent arthritis and other joint problems. It also helps with their flexibility and mobility. The muscles that support these joints get stronger with each day of more exercise.

2. Builds Your Dog’s Endurance

While you might get winded after a long walk, your dog will likely still have some physical energy to spare. However, the more you take them out, the better their endurance will become. They’ll be able to go longer distances without getting as tired and is a great way to keep your dog busy.

3. Helps With Dog’s Digestion

A good walk can help to get your dog’s digestion moving. This is especially helpful if they suffer from constipation. The exercise will help get things flowing to relieve themselves more easily and become the good dog you want.

4. Improves Dog’s Mental Health

Some exercises get the dogs to socialize, which helps to reduce stress and anxiety. Other exercises help them to burn off any extra energy. This can be calming for many dogs that tend to be anxious or stressed. Your dogs are much happier when they engage in activities they love because it results in mental stimulation.

5. Helps Prevent Obesity

Obesity is a major health concern for dogs that are not active. It can cause them to suffer from many health issues, including diabetes. Exercising with your dog is a great way to prevent them from becoming obese. It will encourage proper weight management and avoid potential health problems. So, make sure you learn how to get your dog to lose weight and exercise.

Is it cruel not to walk your dog?

Yes!

But if…

Yes!!

Walking your dog covers two basic needs. First, to keep your dogs happy they need to move a lot. Second, dogs need the variety of walks and smells they encounter on the way.

Walking and physical activity

Dogs are some of the only a few land animals who can keep up with humans in long-distance running. If you don’t let them move several times every day then you are making their lives miserable. If you have problems getting your butt off the couch two or three times every day then you should think twice about getting a dog.

How much do you need to walk your dog?

You should walk your dog at least twice a day and for a minimum of 20 minutes every time. Dogs are curious and want to explore the world. Longer walks give them the opportunity to exercise their body and mind.

Always consider the size of your dog. Chihuahua is tiny and the distance it needs to get decent exercise is much smaller than a husky. However, I have walked my chihuahuas for more than two hours and they have not shown any desire to return home. So, as a rule of thumb, more walking is better for almost all dogs.

There are short-nosed dog breeds (brachycephalic breeds) like bulldogs and pugs, who may have breathing problems. You may want to keep the walks short with those breeds. However, if you let them dictate the pace then they also enjoy being outside.

And then there are the active breeds. Border collie and most other shepherds along with huskies have been bred to be on their feet all the time. If you don’t let them get the exercise their quality of life would be lower than it should be.

Walking for socializing and mental exercise

• Meeting other dogs
• Sniffing the dog Facebook
• Smelling everything else

Let your dog guide you

If you have time, always let your dog take you places where they want to go. Of course, you should avoid obviously dangerous areas and places where you are not allowed to go with your dog, but other than that let your dog take you places.

[hda calculator]

Types of Exercise for Dogs

Many different types of exercise are suitable for different dog breeds. The exercises also depend on their temperament and energy levels.

Some of the different types of exercise include:

Going for walks: This is one of the best exercises for dogs as it helps keep their heart rate up and their joints moving. Dog walking is a low-intensity workout that is friendly to many breeds and dog owners. It’s also a great way to bond with your dog.

Playing fetch: This is a great way to get your dog’s energy out and teach them to obey simple commands. The exercise is more of a game than anything else, but it is still a great way to tire your dog out.

Going for runs: This is an excellent exercise for dogs with a lot of energy. It is also a great way to bond with your dog as you work towards a common goal. Another great way to do this is to take your dog with you while you cycle. They can run beside you and have some fun, or you get different types of dog treadmills so they can run at home.

Going swimming: This is a great exercise for dogs that love the water, and it is also a great way to cool them down on hot days. If your dog loves playing in the water, treat them once in a while by swimming with them. The low-impact exercise helps with joint health as well. Make sure they have a life jacket to keep them afloat.

Take them hiking: If you love hiking, you can invite your furry buddy to accompany you. Dogs love the outdoors, and it’s an excellent way for them to explore new smells, especially for the scent hounds. However, before taking your dog hiking with you, watch out for undesirable behaviors by training them to walk on a leash and follow your commands.

Indoor Exercises for Dogs

Sometimes the weather may not allow you to take your furry buddy outdoors for a jog. Well, good exercise doesn’t always have to be outdoors. There are also indoor exercises for dogs that you can do to keep them healthy and fit. Here are some ideas:

Doggie stairs: If you have small or toy breeds, get doggie stairs and let them climb up and down. This is a great way to work their leg muscles. Take it slow with dogs with shorter legs and longer backs like Dachshunds to avoid back injuries.

Play fetch: You can play fetch indoors with a small softball or even a sock rolled up into a ball. Ensure that whatever you’re using is small enough that your dog can comfortably carry it in their mouth and won’t hurt them if they accidentally get hit during the play sessions.

Tug of war: Dogs benefit a lot from games such as these. Get a rope toy and play a game of tug of war with your pup. This is a great way to build up their muscles and help them release any built-up energy.

Agility training: If you’re feeling extra ambitious, you can set up an agility course in your backyard or living room and let your dog run through it. Or getting different types of dog treadmill or dog exercise wheel can also work. This is a great way to keep their minds and bodies active. You can get dog excited for treadmill with a little exercise.

Hide and seek: This is a fun game that you can play with your dog indoors and outdoors. Have them sit or stay while you hide, then call them to come to find you. This is a great way to work on their obedience skills and discourage unwanted behaviors.

Different Types of Dog Treadmill

Dog treadmills are great exercise tools to get your furry friends moving and active. There are different types of dog treadmills available on the market, so it’s essential to choose one that’s right for your pup.

Small and lightweight dog treadmills are perfect for dogs that weigh up to 30 pounds. These treadmills are easy to transport and store, making them a great option for small apartments or homes.

Medium-sized dog treadmills are designed for dogs that weigh between 31 and 70 pounds. These treadmills are a bit larger and heavier than the small-sized options, but they’re still easy to move around.

Large dog treadmills are the best option for more than 71 pounds dogs. These treadmills are typically made of heavy-duty materials to accommodate larger dogs.

When choosing types of dog treadmills, it’s important to consider your dog’s weight, size, and activity level. If you have a small dog, choose a small or medium-sized treadmill. If you have giant breeds, choose a large treadmill. If you’re not sure which size to choose, it’s always best to err on the side of caution and go with the larger size.

The common types of dog treadmills include:

Traditional/Motorized Treadmills

Motorized types of dog treadmills resemble the traditional ones used in gyms but are specifically designed for dogs. These treadmills usually come with several speed settings, so you can gradually increase the difficulty as your dog gets used to them.

They also come with a longer length and a suspension mechanism specifically designed for pets. The treadmills come with electric motors with a handler that controls the workout duration. They also have a speed-o-meter that helps track distance and time.

Price

Motorized treadmills cost around $200 and $2000. The cheaper ones are usually smaller and have a shorter running deck. The more expensive treadmills tend to be larger and have more features such as pre-set workout programs and heart rate monitors.

Pros

• It features human-controlled speed that can be varied to challenge your dog
• The length is much longer than a traditional treadmill; this is great for larger dogs
• The suspension system is designed to protect your dog’s joints
• Helps build endurance and promotes aerobic conditioning
• Very easy to use

Cons

• Your dog may need some time to get used to it
• Can take up a lot of space

Non-Motorized/ Treadmills

Non-motorized types of dog treadmills are a great option if you’re looking for something more low-key and quiet. These treadmills usually have a slat belt design which helps to provide a smooth surface for your dog to walk.

Non-motorized treadmills, also known as manual treadmills, are powered by your dog. The dog’s movement is what propels the treadmill to move. They don’t use electric power, so they’re more environmentally friendly. These types of dog treadmills are a great option if you have small breeds or a pet that is new to using a treadmill. The dogs are more in control when using the treadmill, making it friendly.

Price

Non-motorized treadmills cost around $250. This is a great price for a piece of equipment that will last you for years. They are usually cheaper than the motorized ones, but it all depends on the brand.

Pros

• The dog has more control over speed
• Reduced fall rate
• No electricity is required to work
• The dog uses more effort, which means higher calorie burn
• Doesn’t occupy a lot of space because it doesn’t have a long deck

Cons

• Takes more effort to use
• Most dogs can easily become distracted and stop using it
• Harder to train a dog to use it

Hydrotherapy Treadmills

Apart from the two main types of dog treadmills above, there’s also the hydrotherapy treadmill. Physical therapists and veterinarians mostly use this to help aid in the rehabilitation of dogs that have been injured.

Hydrotherapy treadmills are different from other treadmills because they have a water-based system. This system helps to support the dog’s weight and also provides resistance. The water can also help to massage the dog’s muscles.

Hydrotherapy treadmills are mostly used for dogs that are recovering from an injury. The water helps to support the dog’s weight and also provides resistance. The water can also help to massage the dog’s muscles.

If you’re thinking about getting a hydrotherapy treadmill for your dog, it’s important to consult with your veterinarian first. They will be able to give you advice on whether or not this type of therapy is right for your dog.

Price

Hydrotherapy treadmills are very expensive. The cost of a treadmill can range from $1,000 to $4,000. You will also need to pay for the cost of the water, which can add up quickly.

Pros

• They come with a reliable power source
• Provides therapeutic experience for injured dogs
• Easy to use
• Perfect for low impact workout
• Come with built-in features for speed and distance tracking

Cons

• They’re costly
• Treadmills can be very loud
• Some dogs may be afraid of the water
• Needs maintenance for the water tank

Related Questions

1. Which dog breeds need the most exercise?

Some dogs breeds that need a lot of exercise are Border Collies, Australian Shepherds, Labrador Retrievers, and Golden Retrievers. Most of these breeds are bred for dog sports, hunting, or herding dogs; hence need to build endurance and stronger muscles for the activities.

2. What is considered an active dog?

An active dog needs at least an hour of exercise a day. This can be in a slow walk, run, hike, or even playing fetch. They are usually athletic dogs that need homes with a lot of space in the yard to run around and explore.

3. How can I exercise my dog indoors?

There are several ways to exercise your dog indoors. One way is to create an obstacle course for them to navigate. You can do this with furniture, pillows, and toys. Another way is to play fetch indoors. This can be done with a ball or toy that is safe to throw inside the house. Finally, you can train them to use the best types of dog treadmills to exercise.

4. How can I exercise my dog in the winter?

There are many ways to exercise your pup in the winter. One way is to take them on walks or runs in the snow. This is a great way to get them out and moving while also enjoying the winter scenery. Another way is to play fetch or get other dog exercise equipment for indoor use, such as a treadmill.

5. What is the laziest dog?

The laziest dog breed is the basset hound. This particular breed is a couch potato that would rather lounge around the house. If you are looking for a lazy dog that won’t bother you so much to take them out for exercise sessions, the basset hound would be a good choice.

6. How much exercise should a dog get?

The amount of exercise a dog needs varies depending on the breed. Some only need 30 minutes of exercise while others go for up to 2 hours daily. Some dogs, like the basset hound, don’t need as much exercise as others. Other breeds, like the Labrador retriever, need daily exercise to stay healthy and happy. It is important to talk to your veterinarian about how much exercise your specific dog needs.

7. How do you tire out a dog without walking?

There are many ways to tire out a dog without walking, such as playing fetch or tug-of-war. Other options include letting the dog run in an open field or taking them to a dog park. You can also try setting up an obstacle course in your backyard for your dog to navigate. Whatever you do, make sure you supervise your dog to ensure their safety.

8. Do dogs need rest days?

Dogs need rest days to enhance both their mental stimulation and physical state. A rest day in a dog’s life involves sleep and relaxation. Although a dog sleeps an average of 12-14 hours a day, it can still benefit from an additional nap during the day. A tired dog is a happy dog!

9. Do dogs need a day off from walking?

Active dogs don’t necessarily need a day off from walking unless they’re sick, injured, or very old. Those who participate in active sporting activities may also appreciate rest from daily walks. However, all dogs can benefit from a change of scenery and some downtime. If your dog is used to walking on a leash, try letting them run around in an enclosed area like a backyard.

10. Is exercise good for a dog with an enlarged heart?

If your dog is diagnosed with heart disease, such as an enlarged heart, their activity levels may be restricted. They should not engage in any activities that may increase their heart rate. But you can still engage them in low-intensity activities to improve their mental state.

Now You’re Ready to Get Your Dog Out and Exercise

Dogs need exercise to stay healthy and active. Many people still ask how much exercise should my dog get? The amount of exercise and intensity vary from breed to breed. Some dogs may need to exercise twice a day, while others only require once.

Not sure how much exercise does a dog need? Ask your veterinarian. They can provide general guidelines to help you create an appropriate walking schedule based on your pet’s age, breed, and health conditions.

You should also consider getting dog exercise equipment, such as choosing the best types of dog treadmill, which can help supplement their walks. Overall, give your furry friend a great outdoors experience to stay active and maintain a healthy lifestyle.