How Much Exercise Do Dogs Need Every Day?
Before you consider getting a dog it is important to consider the amount of time you will need to commit to taking care of your dog.
Walking your dog is an important part of their mental and physical well-being, so you need to know how much exercise a dog will need before you bring them into your life.
Pet Sitters Ireland provide Pet Sitting and Dog Walking Services across all of the Republic of Ireland for all types of animals. Call us 1800 303010 or 087 9898042 or Contact Us for more information.
How Much Exercise Does A Dog Really Need?
When it comes to determining how much exercise your dog needs a lot can depend on the age and breed of the dog. As a guide, each day your dog will require a 30-60 minute dog walk morning and evening.
A very active dog will require less walking if they are used to running around the garden, playing ball or fetch. However, a dog that is more sedentary will need a stricter routine when it comes to their dog walks to make sure they get their daily exercise.
If you come home from your walk and your dog still has bundles of energy then you probably need to give them a longer walk. You also will need to do more frequent walks if your dog does not have access to a garden to go to the toilet in during the day. Alternatively, you may need to hire a Dog Walker if you are not home to take them out in the day.
Is It Ok For My Dog To Exercise Themselves In The Garden?
Many dogs will enjoy a run around in the garden and if you have more than one dog they can keep each other active during the day. The problem with ‘self-exercise’ is that you really don’t know how much exercise your dog has got.
It could be that when you looked out the window they were running around like crazy and then as soon as you went back to your work they decided to lie down and take a nap.
It’s, therefore, best not to count this as their main exercise of the day unless you are going to stand outside with them and throw a ball or play a game with them.
What Happens If Your Dog Doesn’t Get Enough Exercise?
#1. Destructive Behaviour
If your dog is bored and is not getting out for a walk every day then they will get bored and can become destructive. This can lead to excess chewing and damage to your property in the house.
Think about it, if your dog is bored then your shoes, your sofa and those cushions all like attractive play toys. Before you know it your dog has destroyed the room.
#2. Obesity
Just like humans, dogs can become overweight. It’s important that they get their exercise every day to burn off the food and snacks that they eat. Keeping a healthy diet is also part of keeping your dog at their perfect weight.
If you are concerned about your dogs weight then I would recommend you consult a vet. They will be able to give you specific advice on the best type, and quantity, of food for your dog, and also advise you on the perfect weight range for your dog.
#3. Health Problems
Obesity is not the only health problem that dogs that don’t get enough exercise can suffer from. They could also suffer from arthritis or heart problems due to lack of exercise.
Regularly exercising your dog has also been said to slow down the ageing process of your dog.
#4. Behavioural Problems
Dogs need to get out each day for some exercise. They want to explore, burn off excessive energy and spend time with you. It’s also a chance for them to socialise with other dogs and people, making them more comfortable in different surroundings.
Dogs that don’t enough exercise could become aggressive or unsociable. Just like humans would become agitated and irritated if they didn’t get out each day, dogs can be the same.
Activities To Keep Your Dog Exercised
Exercising your dog can be more than just walking them every day. There are lots of fun ways that you can spend time with your dog to keep them active and mentally stimulated.
Our Dog Exercise Ebook can show you different ways to spend time with your dog exercising them. For example, playing ball, fetch, agility training, interactive games, a visit to the dog park etc.
How Can Pet Sitters Ireland Help?
If you are reading this article your are probably aware that we offer a Dog Walking service. We help people when they are busy at work, maybe they are under the weather or just have other commitments that mean they don’t have time to walk their dog as much as they want to. You can read more about our Dog Walking Services and get in touch with us via the Contact Form if you have questions.
