Summary
The article explains how long dog walks should be, based on a dog's age. Veterinarians advise that factors like age, breed, health, and walking surfaces determine the appropriate exercise routine for a dog to avoid injury.
Key Facts
- Puppies need structured walks for five minutes per month of age, twice daily, and free play is recommended.
- Young dogs, 6 to 18 months old, can gradually increase walking distance as their stamina improves.
- Adult dogs can typically handle 30 to 90 minutes of exercise per day, depending on their breed and conditioning.
- Senior dogs require gentler exercise routines, with options like swimming to reduce joint strain.
- Excessive exercise may cause fatigue, limping, or pain, while too little can lead to hyperactivity or weight gain.
- Veterinarians emphasize personalizing exercise based on each dog's unique needs, considering factors like age and health.
