Taking your dog for daily walks offers a range of mental, emotional, and physical health benefits for nearly all dogs. Walks provide essential exercise, keeping your dog physically fit, while also offering mental stimulation through interesting smells, interactions with people and other dogs, and exploration of the outdoors. This routine helps break up long periods spent indoors, reducing boredom and promoting a happier, more relaxed pet. Additionally, humans benefit from outdoor walks, gaining exercise and mental refreshment as well.

However, some dogs may not be suited for walks, especially those with health issues or physical limitations that hinder their comfort and safety during walks. Additionally, certain dogs may experience anxiety or fear, making them reluctant to engage in long walks. If you’re uncertain about whether walking is appropriate for your dog, consult your veterinarian.

Next, we’ll address common questions about dog walking, including optimal walk durations and the best times of day to walk your dog.

How Long Should You Take Your Dog for a Walk?

The appropriate duration of walks for your dog varies based on factors like age, breed, and individual needs.

Puppies require shorter walks compared to adult dogs. While they have plenty of energy, their stamina is limited, so they tire quickly. It’s beneficial for puppies to have frequent, brief walks, which also aids in potty and leash training. Aim for walks lasting around five to ten minutes, taking your puppy out three or more times a day.

Senior dogs generally can walk longer than puppies, but they often require shorter walks than when they were younger to avoid joint and muscle injuries. Depending on their age, senior dogs may have reduced stamina and tire more easily than younger adult dogs.

For senior dogs, aim for one or two walks daily, lasting about 20 to 30 minutes. If your senior dog is in good condition and doesn’t experience limping or excessive stiffness after longer walks, you can extend the duration slightly.

Adult dogs can handle longer walks compared to puppies and senior dogs. The ideal length of walks will vary based on your dog’s breed, body type, and personality. Most adult dogs enjoy going on multiple walks, so aim for at least two daily, and feel free to add extra walks if you have the time.

Small breeds like Chihuahuas, Maltese, Papillons, Pomeranians, and Yorkshire Terriers typically require shorter walks, as their shorter legs need to work harder to cover the same distance as larger dogs.

Brachycephalic breeds, such as boxers, bulldogs, French bulldogs, and pugs, often need shorter walks due to their pushed-in faces, which can make breathing more difficult, especially during exercise.

Similarly, breeds with long backs and short legs, like Basset hounds, Dachshunds, Pembroke Welsh corgis, and Scottish terriers, may also require shorter walks. However, this can vary by breed and individual dog. Some short-legged dogs handle longer walks well, so it’s best to consult your veterinarian and assess your dog’s specific needs.

For small, flat-faced, and dwarf dog breeds, begin with walks lasting 15 to 30 minutes, twice a day, preferably in cooler weather for their comfort. If your dog enjoys walking and appears happy to continue, you can gradually increase the duration, ensuring you stop before they become overtired.

Medium to large breeds, like beagles, English Springer Spaniels, Golden Retrievers, and Labrador Retrievers, are generally capable of longer walks, as long as they are healthy and in good physical condition. These breeds typically handle moderate to long walks with ease.

Athletic breeds like Australian Shepherds, Border Collies, Siberian Huskies, Vizslas, and Weimaraners are designed for speed and endurance. These breeds not only enjoy longer walks but may also require them, along with additional exercise, to remain calm and content at home.

For medium and large breeds, particularly athletic ones, begin with walks lasting 30 to 60 minutes, twice a day. You can gradually increase the duration and frequency of the walks based on your dog’s comfort and enthusiasm.

What Times of Day Are Best for Dog Walks?

While many dogs are eager to go for walks at any time, morning and early evening are typically ideal for walking. These times enable you to exercise and let your dog relieve itself before you leave for work and when you return home. Additionally, walking during the summer’s midday heat can be risky, so it’s best to take advantage of the cooler temperatures in the early morning and late evening.

Safe Dog Walking:

Always customize your dog’s walks based on their individual needs. If your dog is overweight or has health concerns, consult your veterinarian before beginning a new walking routine. It’s best to gradually increase the length of walks, starting with shorter durations and adding a few minutes every few days if your dog is managing well.

End walks before your dog becomes overly tired. Signs of fatigue include slowing down, heavy panting with an extended tongue, refusal to move forward, or lying down. If your dog shows these signs, allow them to rest, then head home and plan for a shorter walk next time.

Avoid walking your dog in hot weather. During the summer, schedule walks for early morning or late evening, and reduce their duration or frequency if needed. Hot pavement can burn sensitive paw pads, and exercising in high temperatures can lead to overheating or heatstroke, which is an emergency. Symptoms of heatstroke include excessive panting or drooling, a bright red, blue, or purple tongue or gums, shaking, vomiting, diarrhea, and collapse. If you suspect your dog is experiencing heatstroke, move them to a cooler area, wet their body with cool (not ice-cold) water, and contact a veterinarian immediately.

It’s wise to bring water for your dog if you plan to walk for more than 30 minutes. Even in mild temperatures, dogs can become thirsty and overheated, especially those with long, thick coats or those not accustomed to longer walks.