Dog walks and exercise

A walk is more than exercise

If you see walks only as burning calories, a brisk walk out and back looks ideal. But for a dog, a walk is also time to gather information by sniffing and to get used to unfamiliar sounds and people. A walk with plenty of sniffing can be mentally tiring even over a short distance, which helps a dog settle down at home. Rather than constantly cutting sniffing short, let your dog sniff freely along certain stretches. Dogs that do not get enough walks often spend their leftover energy at home on barking, chewing and overexcitement.

How much walking?

Most dogs need at least one walk a day, but the right amount varies widely with age, breed and health. High-energy breeds can walk for a long time and still want more, while small or older dogs may do better with several short outings. If your dog rests briefly after returning and then seems comfortable, the amount was right; if it limps or avoids stairs the next day, it was too much. Use your dog's response as the guide, not a number.

• Puppies: start short after discussing vaccinations with your vet
• Adult dogs: steady every day, not crammed into weekends
• Seniors or joint problems: short and frequent, mostly on flat ground

Puppies and senior dogs

Puppies' bones and joints are still growing, so it is better to avoid long runs or jumping down from heights. Short walks that let them calmly experience different surfaces, sounds and people help with socialization instead. When to start walks depends on vaccination progress, so ask your vet. Senior dogs walk more slowly and tire easily, but stopping walks entirely makes muscle loss faster. Follow the pace your dog sets.

Walking in hot weather

Dogs cannot cool down by sweating all over the way people do; they mainly shed heat by panting. That makes them vulnerable to heat, especially short-nosed breeds, overweight dogs and seniors. In summer, go out early in the morning or in the evening when the sun is low, and avoid midday asphalt. If you can hardly keep the back of your hand on the ground for a few seconds, it is hot for bare paws too. Bring water and rest often in the shade.

• Heavy panting and lots of drooling
• Gums or tongue darker than usual
• Wobbling or collapsing
• Vomiting or dull responses

If you suspect heatstroke

If you see these signs, move your dog to shade or a cool place right away, wet its body with lukewarm or cool water to bring the temperature down, and call a vet immediately. Rapid cooling such as an ice bath can actually do harm. Even if your dog seems to recover, internal damage can show up later, so a vet must examine it. Leaving a dog in a parked car is dangerous even for a short time.

Cold and rainy days

Short-haired, small and senior dogs are also vulnerable to cold. On cold days, shorten walks and use a coat if needed. De-icing salt on winter roads can irritate paw pads, so wipe your dog's feet after walks. On rainy days or when the weather keeps you in, indoor games such as hiding treats for a sniffing hunt or tug of war can stand in for a walk.

Leashes and manners

Use a collar or harness that fits, adjusted so one or two fingers slide underneath. Keep the leash short in crowded places, and ask the other owner before approaching another dog. Not every dog welcomes other dogs. Pick up waste right away and attach an ID tag with your contact details. Outdoor rules such as leash length can change, so check your local government's official guidance.

• A well-fitting collar or harness and an ID tag
• Waste bags and water
• Ask the other owner before approaching their dog

Checks after a walk

After a walk, look for cuts or stuck objects on the paw pads and for ticks on the body. If you went through tall grass, also check inside the ears and between the toes. If your dog picked something up and ate it, remember what it was and contact a vet if it might be harmful. If you see coughing, difficulty breathing or sudden limping during or after a walk, do not push on; get your dog seen. This guide is general information, and the most accurate advice on the right exercise for your dog's health comes from a vet.