Walking a dog is often part of a daily routine, but experts stress it plays a far more critical role in a dog’s physical and mental health than many owners realize.
“Exercise is fundamental for maintaining a dog’s overall health,” explained Dr. Jerry Klein, the chief veterinarian at the American Kennel Club (AKC), in an interview with Newsweek.
More Than Just a Bathroom Break
Dr. Klein emphasized that walking provides numerous health benefits, helping dogs maintain strength, coordination, and mobility. It also plays a significant role in weight management.
“Obesity is the leading preventable health problem in dogs today,” Klein noted. “Regular exercise strengthens muscles and joints, burns calories, regulates weight, and boosts cardiovascular health. It also helps alleviate issues like boredom, anxiety, and hyperactivity, which can lead to destructive behavior.”
Moreover, consistent walks benefit the relationship between dogs and their owners.
“Exercising together strengthens the bond between dogs and their humans, making it a win-win,” Klein added.
Structuring Your Dog’s Day with Routine
Veterinarian Dr. Emily Wilson, from Fuzzy Pet Health, shared with the AKC that daily exercise helps stabilize a dog’s behavior and supports emotional regulation.
“It’s not just about letting your dog relieve itself,” Wilson explained. “You can make walks interactive. Dogs thrive on a routine, and regular walks at the same time each day give them structure and comfort.”
Tailoring Exercise to Your Dog’s Needs
While most adult dogs can handle 20 to 30-minute walks, exercise requirements vary based on factors such as breed, age, and overall health. Puppies, in particular, need a different approach than adult dogs.
“Puppies, especially those under 12 months, and large breeds should not be subjected to intense exercise, like long runs on hard surfaces,” Klein advised. “Their bones and joints are still developing, and high-impact activities could cause damage. Instead, gentle play on soft surfaces like grass or sand is ideal.”
Senior dogs also benefit from regular walks, although they may need to move at a slower pace or cover shorter distances.
“For dogs with arthritis, slow and frequent walks are beneficial,” noted Dr. Wilson.
Alternatives to Traditional Walks
While walking remains the most popular form of exercise for dogs, it’s not the only way to keep them active.
Games like hide-and-seek with treats, leash training, or supervised play in a dog-safe area can offer both physical activity and mental stimulation. For high-energy breeds, owners might choose to supplement walks with obedience or agility training.
“As dogs age, their exercise needs change, but regular activity should always be something they look forward to,” Wilson concluded.
Conclusion
Veterinarians agree that daily exercise is crucial for dogs of all ages. Whether it’s a simple walk or more interactive forms of exercise, keeping your dog active promotes not only physical health but also mental well-being. Tailoring activities to your dog’s specific needs and routine will help ensure they lead a happy, healthy life.