Large and active breeds, such as Labradors, Border Collies, German Shepherds, and Australian Shepherds, often require at least an hour of brisk walking per day, sometimes even two, along with additional play and mental stimulation.
Medium-energy breeds, like Beagles, Cocker Spaniels, or Schnauzers, are generally content with one longer walk and shorter outings during the day, but they still need enough time to explore and play.
Small and calmer breeds, such as French Bulldogs, Shih Tzus, or Malteses, can be satisfied with several shorter walks per day, but it’s important that they also have opportunities to move, explore, and expend energy in a healthy way.
It’s not just the length of the walk that matters, but also the quality. Dogs enjoy exploring, sniffing, and interacting with their environment. Walks are not only physical exercise – they also provide mental stimulation, which helps them stay happy and calm at home. Quick games, visits to different locations, encounters with other dogs, and reinforcing basic commands make walks more engaging and beneficial.
Older dogs or those with health issues may require shorter, slower walks, but the focus on quality and stimulation remains the same. The goal isn’t to exhaust your dog, but to allow them to move, explore, and stay healthy.
Ultimately, every walk should balance physical activity with your dog’s enjoyment of the surroundings. By paying attention to their needs and energy levels, you can easily determine how much walking is enough, making walks an enjoyable part of the day for both you and your pet.
