The long and short of it

Brachycephalic breeds might need shorter walks due to breathing difficulties limiting their exercise tolerance.

HOW LONG SHOULD YOUR WALK REALLY BE?

The length of your dog's walk depends on your dog's age, breed and a couple of other factors. Here we give some rough guidelines for the length of walk your dog should enjoy, but it is always best to discuss this with your vet or a veterinary physiotherapist first.

AGE

Puppies need shorter walks than adult dogs. Puppies have a lot of energy but not a lot of stamina, and their skeletons and joints have not yet fully matured. All of this means that they can damage their bodies if they walk for too long. Short, frequent walks are best for your puppy, and these also allow for plenty of lead training to keep their minds occupied. Short walks of about five to ten minutes, three times a day, will be adequate for most puppies and avoid any joint damage.

NOTE: Chat to your vet or physio about when you should expect your dog's growth plates to close. Until the growth plates have closed, you need to control your dog's exercise levels to avoid long-term skeletal or joint issues.

Senior dogs can usually walk for longer than young puppies, but not for as long as they may have done in their younger years. Movement is still very good for most senior dogs, but you should keep the walks shorter and monitor how they cope. For seniors, you could aim for one to two walks per day of around 20 to 30 minutes at a time. You can go a little longer if your senior is in good shape, wants to keep going and doesn't limp or show excessive stiffness after going for long walks.

Adult dogs can go on longer walks than both puppies and seniors. Your walks may be longer or shorter depending on your dog's breed, body type and personality. Most adult dogs are happy to go on as many walks as you will take them on, but aim for at least two a day and don't be afraid to throw in an extra walk if you have the time.

BREED

Small breeds such as Chihuahuas and Yorkshire Terriers usually need shorter walks because those little legs have to move a lot more to cover the same distance as a bigger dog with longer legs.

Brachycephalic breeds – those with 'squashed' faces, such as the Pug and French Bulldog – may also need shorter walks. This is because their short snouts can make it harder for them to breathe, particularly during exercise.

Dogs with long backs and short legs like the Dachshund, Corgi and Basset Hound may also need shorter walks, but this will depend on the individual dog. Some of these dogs enjoy long walks and do well to develop their back strength through this exercise, but chat to your vet and monitor how your dog does.

For small dogs, brachycephalic breeds and dogs with long backs, start with walks for about 15 to 30 minutes long, twice a day. Start these walks in cooler weather to make it easier for your dog. If your dog enjoys walking and seems happy to walk further, you can gradually increase the distance over time but always make sure to stop before your dog becomes overtired.

Medium to large breeds, such as the Beagle and Golden Retriever, can usually go for longer walks, provided they are in good health and good shape physically. These breeds can generally do moderate to long walks easily.

Athletic dogs like the Border Collie and Weimaraner are built for speed and stamina. Not only can such dogs enjoy longer walks, but they may also require them (plus other exercise) in order to be calm and happy.

For medium and large breeds, especially athletic ones, start with walks about 30 to 60 minutes long, twice a day. Increase the duration and frequency of walks as much as your dog seems comfortable and excited about.

DOGS WITH HEALTH ISSUES

A small number of dogs shouldn't go for walks or should only go for short walks. These dogs usually have physical issues or health conditions that prevent them from safely and comfortably enjoying a walk. It is also worth noting that some dogs simply don't enjoy going for long walks because of fear or anxiety. Talk to your vet if you are unsure whether walking is a good idea for your dog.

NOTE: If you have multiple dogs at home of different breeds and ages, you may need some help in best tailoring a schedule that works for all of you in terms of walking routines. Chat to your vet or veterinary physiotherapist for assistance with this.

TAKE HOME MESSAGE

Ultimately, the times listed here are guidelines, and a tailored schedule should be developed for each individual. If you have any doubts about whether you are walking for the right amount of time or covering the proper distance with your dog, ask your vet or veterinary physiotherapist, and they will be able to help you out.

All puppies need short walks to avoid damaging their joints or skeletal structures before they are fully developed.