How Long Should You Walk Your Dog? A Practical Guide by Age and Energy Level

Most dogs do best with a steady daily routine.

It is one of the most common questions new dog owners ask, and the honest answer is that it depends. Breed, age, health and personality all play a part. Still, there are some sensible starting points.

A general range

The American Kennel Club suggests that most healthy adult dogs benefit from somewhere between 30 minutes and two hours of activity a day. Walks usually make up the biggest share of that, with play time, training games and sniffing breaks filling in the rest.

High-energy breeds

Herding and working breeds such as Border Collies, Australian Shepherds and Labradors often sit at the top of that range. A short stroll around the block rarely satisfies them. Two longer walks a day, plus a game of fetch or a training session, tends to work better.

Smaller and calmer dogs

Many small breeds and laid-back dogs are happy with shorter, more frequent walks. Three 15 to 20 minute outings can be just as good as one long walk, and they are easier to fit around a work day.

Puppies and older dogs

Puppies have lots of energy but tire quickly, and their joints are still developing. Short, gentle walks with plenty of breaks are best. Senior dogs usually still enjoy their walks, just at a slower pace and over shorter distances. Let them set the speed.

Signs you have the balance right

• Your dog settles down calmly at home after a walk.
• There is less chewing, digging or restless pacing.
• Your dog is keen to go out, but not frantic.

Every dog is different, so treat these as starting points and adjust as you learn what your own dog needs.