Just like humans, dogs need regular exercise to stay healthy. As humans, our mental and physical health are closely linked, and the same applies to dogs. By exercising our dogs regularly, we can take care of their well-being as well as our own!
In general, dogs need 1 to 2 hours of exercise per day, depending on their breed and age. To understand how to exercise your dog, including the best equipment for exercising your dog that we recommend, please continue reading! Your pup will appreciate the new experiences you introduce to them.
Do All Dogs Need Exercise? Which Breeds Need It The Most? Which Need It The Least?
When it comes to exercise, the needs vary for each breed of dog. This section will inform you about how much exercise your dog needs each day and which breeds require the most and least activity.
Breeds That Need The Most Exercise
Below are some breeds that require the most exercise. We recommend at least 2 hours of exercise per day for these breeds. However, if you notice signs of fatigue in your dog, you should immediately end the training as they have reached their physiological limit.
Labrador Retriever
The Labrador Retriever is a gentle dog, but don't be fooled. Originally bred to retrieve small game during hunting seasons, they instinctively carry delicate items without damaging them. As working dogs, Labrador Retrievers require a lot of stimulation and exercise—they often enjoy swimming, fetching, and walks.
Dalmatian
Known for its unique white body with black spots, Dalmatians were bred as hunting and war dogs, possessing strong protective instincts and requiring plenty of exercise. Dalmatians thrive in open rural spaces and unleashed activities as they run fast and need freedom to reach top speeds.
Alaskan Malamute
Another working dog originally used as a sled dog in North America, their wolf-like appearance makes them stunning pets, provided they receive adequate stimulation and exercise, such as cross-country running, sled pulling, and skiing, allowing them to utilize their natural pulling ability.
Border Collie
Renowned for obedience and intelligence, Border Collies need significant physical and mental stimulation throughout the day to prevent boredom. You might find your Border Collie excels in agility training and enjoys playing fetch, letting them run at their fastest speed.
Boxer
Boxers were bred as bull-baiting and cattle herding dogs, making them energetic and in need of substantial exercise to maintain happiness and health. They are very playful and respond well to games such as fetch.
English Springer Spaniel
Undoubtedly energetic, English Springer Spaniels can bounce around the house and enjoy running. Taking your Springer Spaniel jogging or biking with you will allow them to use their zoomies, leading to a more relaxed demeanor when they're back home with you.
Weimaraner
This highly energetic breed requires at least 2 hours of exercise per day. If you fail to provide the required stimulation for this intelligent, active dog, you may find your Weimaraner getting into trouble at home. Therefore, keeping your Weimaraner happy will serve your best interest.
German Shepherd
A true working breed, German Shepherds were bred as guard and scent dogs, being highly intelligent and having a keen sense of smell. Consider involving your German Shepherd in search and retrieval activities to stimulate their mind and body.
Golden Retriever
Similar to the Labrador Retriever, Golden Retrievers historically retrieved small game during hunts, meaning they love to run and fetch. Despite appearing calm and gentle, both breeds still need plenty of exercise to stay happy and healthy.
Samoyed
As a herding breed, you need to provide ample exercise for your Samoyed to prevent them from chasing small animals or barking at squirrels through windows. Your Samoyed needs at least 2 hours of outdoor play and walks each day for a healthy and happy lifestyle.
Breeds That Need The Least Exercise
These dogs are often referred to as low-energy breeds, requiring minimal physical activity. If you know you won't be able to engage in extensive physical activities with your dog, it's best to choose these breeds as they are easier to manage.
Bulldog
You might find it hard to convince your Bulldog to take a walk outdoors. This breed prefers lounging on the couch rather than romping outside. Due to their short noses, Bulldogs can have difficulty breathing when pushed to their physical limits, so gentle strolls are best for this breed.
Shih Tzu
When a Shih Tzu is in the mood to play, they can be quite mischievous. However, you won't feel exhausted exercising this noble breed. Your Shih Tzu will be content with short walks or quick indoor ball games.
Chow Chow
Despite being a low-energy breed, Chow Chows still enjoy short walks. We recommend taking your Chow Chow for at least 20 minutes of outdoor walking every day. However, they are quite content to lounge around the house, cuddling with you while you watch TV.
Basset Hound
Known for its floppy ears and laid-back demeanor, you'll often find your Basset Hound lying in one spot for hours without moving (which suits some people just fine). However, your Basset Hound needs a break from lounging, so it's best to take your hound out for regular walks.
Tibetan Spaniel
Tibetan Spaniels make perfect couch companions with their long, soft fur. Your Tibetan Spaniel will be quite satisfied with daily walks or playtime in the yard.
Bullmastiff
Originally bred as guard dogs, Bullmastiffs are content to patrol around the house and don't require more than an hour of exercise each day to stay satisfied.
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
A low-energy breed, Cavaliers enjoy minimal activity throughout the day. Your Cavalier King Charles Spaniel won't leave you exhausted but will happily accompany you on leisurely walks under the sun.
Pug
Pugs, with their short noses, may struggle with breathing during vigorous activities. Therefore, it's best to take your Pug out for lovely, short, leisurely walks throughout the day to keep them entertained and healthy.
Chihuahua
Chihuahuas are tiny and require only minimal exercise each day. Your goal should be to walk your Chihuahua for 30 minutes a day, preferably broken into several short walks, allowing your little dog to sniff and breathe in fresh air.
Greyhound
Famous for their incredible speed, Greyhounds are one of the fastest dog breeds but don't have a lot of energy. They love to sprint, but once done, they become lazy! We suggest taking your Greyhound to open spaces and engaging in an intense game of fetch, allowing them to complete their zoomie mission.
Exercises For Your High-Energy Dog
High-energy dogs can be rare, especially if you get tired of walking. Fortunately, there are plenty of activities you can do with an energetic dog so you don't have to go on long walks every day - something you'll soon tire of.
Swim
There’s no better way to mix things up and get out of an old walking habit than taking your dog for a swim! If your dog is not yet an accomplished swimmer, you can research dog swimming lessons in your area. What an amazing way to bond with your canine companion! If you are worried about your dog drowning, there are plenty of dog life jackets available to keep your dog safe in the water.
Agility Training
Agility training uses both your dog's body and mind. This exercise can improve your dog's listening and obedience abilities. You will have a lot of fun participating in this activity. Pack plenty of treats and take your dog to a local dog agility class. This experience will be beneficial as they will learn new skills.
Ultimate Frisbee
Ultimate Frisbee is a great way to catch a ball, allowing you to throw it farther and giving your dog more exercise. If your dog is a strong jumper, they will be able to catch a Frisbee in the air and demonstrate their exceptional hunting skills.
Cannicross
Canicross is a dog pull sport that involves jogging with your dog while using its strength to pull you forward. You can participate in canine trails with one or two dogs or even participate in canine trail competitions and events. This is a great activity to tire out your dog. However, in order to practice trail running safely, you must invest in the right equipment. These include dog exercise harnesses, tow ropes and trail belts.
Bicycle Riding
Bikejoring is similar to canicross; only the dog pulls you along on the bike. The sport was originally designed to train sled dogs during the summer. Riding a bike requires basic obedience training and the proper tools to keep you and your dog safe.
Hand Out Toys
You don't have to do much to stimulate your dog with a toy that dispenses treats. You'll occupy their brains and bodies, and you can relax in the garden sipping lemonade while watching them solve interactive toys.
Running And Walking
Walking and running are the foundation for establishing an exercise routine for your dog. If you have an energetic dog, you can take them for one-hour walks twice a day. Alternatively, you can take them for daily runs and long walks. This will satisfy your dog's exercise needs, but it will also help you stay in shape! If you're not in shape enough to run but want to make sure your dog runs regularly to lose weight and stay in shape, you can use a dog treadmill.
Exercise For Low Energy Dogs
Low-energy dogs just need less exercise than high-energy dogs, but that doesn't mean they don't need training. Smaller dogs and lazy breeds still need mental and physical stimulation, and here are some ways you can provide them with that stimulation.
Walk
Taking your small dog for short walks throughout the day can get them out of the house and experience new smells. They may also meet other dogs on your walks, which can be exciting for them. Dogs should not be locked indoors all day, so even smaller dogs and larger dogs must spend time outdoors every day.
Bring It
You can play fetch indoors or in the backyard with your lower-energy dog. Since most low-energy dogs are smaller or older dogs, they don't need huge throws. This activity requires very little effort but can play an important role in stimulating your dog's body and mind.
Flirt Pole
A flirt pole is an excellent exercise for your small dog. They'll love playing tug and chase with the flirt pole. Like a cat toy, a flirt pole is almost like a fishing rod with a toy on the end of the string that your dog will chase. This is a fun way to give your puppy some exercise throughout the day.
Hand Out Toys
Toys that dispense treats are a great way to keep your low-energy dog occupied. In order for these toys to be effective, you must put them away when your dog is not using them to ensure that they do not get bored of the toys.
Brain Game
A great exercise to stimulate your dog's mind is to use puzzle toys. Low-energy dog breeds may not be able to exercise for long periods of time, but they still need other activities to keep them from getting bored throughout the day. This is where educational toys come in. Your dog has to use their brains to find the treat, which keeps them busy for hours!
Dog Yoga
Dog yoga, also known as “doga,” is a yoga practice that can be done with dogs. It can help improve your dog's posture, sleep quality, and mental health. Check out this dog yoga guide to learn how to practice mindfulness with your dog. If you'd like to learn how to stretch for your dog, contact your local dog physical therapist or veterinarian.
Our Picks For The Best Dog Exercise Equipment
Dog Treadmill
If your dog suffers from obesity or is overweight, a Dog Treadmill is an excellent investment. All you need to do is turn the Dog Treadmill For Large Dogs to a lower setting and encourage your dog to walk. They will burn extra energy and the Large Dog Treadmill will help them lose weight. Dog treadmills can be an expensive investment, but they are worth it if you are unable to walk your dog due to a disability or any other reason.
Hands-Free Hiking Belt With Pockets
The Hands-Free Hiking Belt with Pockets is a great piece of dog exercise gear that you can use while walking your dog outdoors. Hiking is a perfect form of exercise for you and your dog, but holding your dog on a leash all the time can be tiresome. Investing in a hands-free hiking belt will keep your dog from straying too far and getting lost, and it will enhance your hiking experience by making your hike more convenient.
Push Ball Toy
The push ball toy is a toy designed for constant movement. Practice herding with the ball by simply pushing the ball and keeping it moving so your dog can practice herding. This dog exercise equipment is suitable for use on both land and water. To make this dog exercise equipment more challenging for your dog, you can fill it with sand to add weight to it.
Interactive Flirt Pole Toy For Dogs
The interactive dog flirt pole toy is a dog exercise device designed to stimulate your dog's hunting instinct. With this toy, you can encourage your dog to sprint, jump, and change direction with minimal effort. This toy is great for exercising your dog and 20 minutes of play time will definitely tire your dog out. If your dog is smaller, you may want to use this toy to exercise indoors when the weather is bad. However, if you have a large dog, we recommend using this toy outdoors to protect your furniture!
Dog Tennis Blaster
The Dog Tennis Ball Blaster is a great toy for large dogs. This dog exercise equipment allows you to throw your dog's ball further so they can run further to catch prey. With this great piece of dog exercise equipment, you can send a tennis ball up to 50 feet away, giving your pup a chance to sprint.
Dog Snuff Pad
The Dog Snuff Pad is a great toy for dogs with a keen sense of smell. Dog exercise equipment should stimulate your dog's body and mind. This dog exercise equipment is a textured mat that when you place treats inside the rug, your dog will have to sniff them out to find them. This dog exercise equipment is great for dogs of all energy levels and is suitable for dogs of all ages.
Pet Water Bottle For Dogs
The Pet Water Bottle for Dogs should be a must-have in your dog's exercise equipment wheelhouse. Your dog needs to stay hydrated when out and about, and this water bottle can help your dog stay hydrated during long walks, runs, hikes, or trips to the park. When exercising, your dog will get thirsty, making a pet water bottle an essential investment.
Dog Running Harness
Dog running harnesses are designed to keep your dog safe while running. The Dog Running Harness is a piece of dog exercise gear designed to allow your dog's body to breathe and prevent any skin irritation during exercise. This harness features an H-shaped back construction that helps distribute the weight of strong pulls evenly across your dog's body. This harness is suitable for small, medium and large dogs. However, if you have an extra large dog, such as a Newfoundland, then you are better off opting for the Perfect Fit Harness.
Snack Chew Balls
This treat chew ball is a great choice for your dog. Like the snuff pad, this dog exercise device targets the brain and gives dogs a task to keep them busy for hours. Your dog's mouth will get exercise squeezing this chew ball to dispense treats, and you can use this toy to keep your dog occupied when you have other things to do. Low effort, high reward!
In Conclusion
Your dog, whether high energy or low energy, needs exercise every day. Whether you're exercising your pet indoors, in the yard, or outdoors, your dog will be delighted to stave off boredom with interactive play. You can keep your dog healthy and stimulated with dog yoga, a dog treadmill, or playing tugboat activities. Hopefully, some of the dog exercise equipment listed here will give you some inspiration on how to do some more exciting activities with your dog to keep him in top shape. Your dog’s leash isn’t the only piece of equipment you can use to exercise your dog!
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