Every dog needs exercise—but how much is too much, or not enough? The truth is, different breeds have different needs. Some pups are full of energy and crave long walks. Others are happier with a quick stroll and a cozy nap. So, if you’re wondering how often your dog should be walked, it helps to know what your dog’s breed was built for.
Let’s take a closer look at how often various breeds should be hitting the pavement.
Table of Content
- Small Breeds
- Medium Breeds
- Large Breeds
- Working and Herding Dogs
- Brachycephalic Breeds (Flat-Faced Dogs)
- Senior Dogs and Puppies
- Bottom Line
Toy and Small Breeds
Dogs like Chihuahuas, Pomeranians, and Yorkies don’t need miles of walking to stay fit. These little ones have short legs and fast metabolisms, so short, frequent walks work best. Two or three 15-minute walks a day usually does the trick.
That said, they still enjoy sniffing around and exploring new spots. If you’re short on time, some folks rely on Hoboken dog walking services for those midday outings their tiny companions look forward to.
Medium Breeds
This group includes Beagles, Cocker Spaniels, and French Bulldogs. These pups tend to be more active than toy breeds but not as demanding as large working dogs. A good rule of thumb? Aim for at least one 30-minute walk and one shorter outing each day.
French Bulldogs, though, are a bit of an exception. They’re not built for endurance. On hot days, keep walks brief and shady.
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Large Breeds
Think Labs, Golden Retrievers, and German Shepherds. These dogs were made to move. Most large breeds need a minimum of 60 minutes of walking each day, split into two sessions. Some may even need more, especially if they’re young or high-energy.
Letting them stretch their legs with a long walk in the morning and a shorter one in the evening usually keeps them happy and well-behaved.
Working and Herding Dogs
Border Collies, Australian Shepherds, and Huskies fall into this category—and they’re non-stop. These breeds were bred for stamina, so they thrive on long walks, hikes, or even runs. If they don’t get enough exercise, they tend to act out or chew things they shouldn’t.
Since not everyone has two hours a day to spare, many owners book Hoboken dog walking services to give their high-energy dogs the extra movement they need while they’re at work.
Brachycephalic Breeds (Flat-Faced Dogs)
Pugs, Bulldogs, and Shih Tzus can’t handle long or intense walks, especially in hot or humid weather. These breeds are best walked in short sessions—around 15 minutes—two to four times a day.
It’s also smart to walk them early in the morning or later in the evening when it’s cooler outside. Watch for signs of heavy breathing or overheating.
Senior Dogs and Puppies
Older dogs may slow down with age and need shorter, gentler walks. Puppies, on the other hand, are growing fast and need shorter bursts of movement throughout the day.
No matter the breed, age plays a role in how often and how long a dog should walk. Pay attention to their body language—they’ll let you know what feels right.
The Bottom Line
Walking keeps dogs fit, sharp, and well-behaved. But there’s no one-size-fits-all schedule. Some dogs need a marathon; others just want a leisurely stroll. That’s why local services like Hoboken dog walking services are so helpful. They offer flexible options that match each pup’s pace—so tails keep wagging and owners stay worry-free.
