There is no single figure for how much exercise a dog needs. The PDSA, the UK veterinary charity, says regular exercise is essential for keeping dogs in shape and important for their mental health, and lists several factors that change the amount. Dogs Trust adds that mental exercise counts too. This guide summarises their advice for UK owners. It is general welfare information, and a vet should be consulted about a dog with a health condition or worries about weight or fitness.
What decides how much exercise a dog needs
The PDSA names five factors:
- Breed. Some breeds need a minimum of one to two hours a day, and working breeds need significantly more.
- Age. While a dog is growing, exercise should be introduced slowly to protect the joints. Adult dogs need to stay fit and active, and senior dogs may need a little less than before.
- Health. An unwell or injured dog may need less than usual, and resting is an important part of recovery, so a vet’s advice should always be followed.
- Fitness. Fitness should be built gradually. A dog asked to join in a new hobby such as running or hiking should be eased into it slowly to avoid injury.
- Personality. Each dog has preferences, so exercise should be enjoyable and, where possible, tailored to the breed, for example to a dog bred to retrieve or swim.
How often to walk
The PDSA says walking should be part of every dog’s daily routine and that most dogs need at least one to two walks a day, unless a vet says otherwise. A brisk walk lets a dog burn off energy, while a slow, meandering walk for sniffing and exploring is good for mental health. Dogs Trust likewise says to allow plenty of time to sniff on walks and to vary the route.
The PDSA says a big garden is no substitute, because walks let a dog sniff new smells, explore places and meet people and dogs, which matters for wellbeing and confidence.
Other ways to exercise a dog
- Swimming. A good option for dogs that like water and easy on the joints, as long as water safety advice is followed.
- Running. The PDSA advises introducing it slowly, starting with short bursts of gentle jogging during a normal walk and building up.
- Hiking. Check that the route suits the dog and its fitness, and carry water and take regular breaks.
- Agility and flyball. Agility and flyball suit active, clever dogs. The PDSA says flyball is not suitable for very heavy dogs or those with joint problems and advises speaking to a vet before starting classes.
- Play. Play does not replace a walk but keeps a dog active and lets it chase, pounce and search.
Play and toy safety
The PDSA’s vets advise using only toys designed for dogs, checking them regularly and discarding any with parts that could be bitten off or swallowed, and choosing toys too large to swallow whole. It also warns that throwing items for fetch, with the quick starts and sudden stops, can strain joints, and suggests avoiding it for dogs that are still growing, elderly, injured, arthritic, overweight or on slippery surfaces. It says never to throw sticks because they can cause very serious injuries. Dogs Trust suggests rotating toys weekly to keep them interesting.
Mental exercise counts
Dogs Trust says enrichment lets dogs use natural instincts, can prevent boredom and build confidence, and should be provided daily. Ideas it lists include lick mats, puzzle feeders, dig boxes, snuffle mats, scattered food and treat trails. It advises supervising and taking food-based enrichment out of the evening meal so a dog does not gain too much weight. The PDSA also lists training as an essential part of a dog’s routine because it keeps the mind active and prevents boredom. The site’s guide to games and enrichment covers more ideas.
Safety on walks
The PDSA emphasises training. Good recall is essential so a dog will return in any situation, and should be practised indoors, then in an enclosed garden or park, before letting a dog off the lead in open space, using reward-based training. It does not recommend extendable leads because they can be dangerous for owner and dog, especially near busy roads. In summer it advises exercising during cooler hours and taking water, and in winter it advises a high-visibility jacket or collar or harness when it is dark. Dogs should be kept on a lead near roads, in built-up areas and around livestock. The site’s guides to dogs in hot weather and harness or collar choices give more detail.
If a dog does not enjoy walks
The PDSA suggests working out why. Fear of other dogs, people or the outdoors can make walks scary, and it recommends an accredited behaviourist. A dog that is struggling to keep up may need advice from a vet on diet and exercise. Boredom can arise if walks are rushed, and it suggests finding a better time or considering a dog walker.
Frequently asked questions
Will more exercise fix bad behaviour?
The PDSA says a good routine may help but is unlikely to fix a problem completely, and exercising a stressed dog in a busy place could make it worse. An accredited behaviourist can help.
The bottom line
According to the PDSA and Dogs Trust, exercise should be fitted to the individual dog: at least one to two walks a day for most, more for working breeds, gradual build-up, care with joints, and daily mental exercise alongside physical activity. A vet is the right contact for any dog with health concerns.