Owning a pet is no walk in the park, pun intended! Taking care of our furry friends involves more than just refilling their food bowls and scratching behind their ears. There’s the all-important task of walking them.
Like humans, dogs need exercise to stay healthy, but how much is enough? Let’s dive into the tail-wagging world of doggy strolls and how often your four-legged friend should be hitting the pavement.
How often should you walk your dog?
Determining how often to walk your dog isn’t as simple as setting a timer. There are four key factors to consider. According to PetMD, every dog breed has its own set of exercise needs. For instance, the high-energy Doberman Pinschers require several walks a day to burn off their endless enthusiasm, while the lap-loving Pomeranians might prefer a quick jaunt around the block.
Puppies are pint-sized powerhouses of energy and generally need more frequent walks than their older counterparts. Dogs aged four years and younger are more likely to romp and play, while senior dogs may have health issues like arthritis or diabetes that make extensive walking less feasible.
How long should you walk your dog?
Next time you clip on the leash, take note of your dog’s pace. This can help gauge what they can handle. The American Kennel Club recommends a brisk 20 to 30-minute walk for dogs in good shape. If your dog resembles a loaf of bread more than a sprinter, start with 10-minute walks, particularly if they have health concerns.
Life gets busy, and sometimes we don’t have time for long excursions. No worries! Even a quick 10 to 15-minute walk does wonders. If the weather or your schedule doesn’t cooperate, a bit of indoor playtime can substitute for exercise.
How often do dogs need to pee?
When it comes to bathroom breaks, dogs are creatures of habit. Adult dogs typically need to go out three to five times a day, according to Purina. Puppies, with their miniature bladders, might need potty trips even more frequently—sometimes every hour! Older dogs also tend to need more breaks due to weaker bladder control. If you’re living with a senior pup, taking them out every four to six hours is advisable.
Health issues can also ramp up the frequency of urination, so keep an eye on any sudden changes in your dog’s bathroom habits.
Should I let my dog sniff on walks?
Just let your dog sniff already! Dogs use their noses to pick up social cues about who else has passed through their walking route. This isn’t just a momentary distraction; it’s a vital part of their routine. Male dogs, in particular, get creative about leaving their scent by aiming higher with their leg lifts to reach the nose levels of other dogs.
And let’s not forget the post-pee scratch-fest. When your dog digs into the ground, they’re releasing scent markers from the glands in their toes. Essentially, they’re scribbling their name into the doggy guestbook for future sniffers to read.
