How much exercise does my dog need? A practical guide by age and energy

Quick answer

Dogs need a mix of physical activity, sniffing, training games, and rest. Puppies need short bursts and more sleep. Adults need consistent daily activity. Seniors need gentle movement and mental enrichment. The best indicator is a relaxed dog that sleeps well and is not restless.

Think in four buckets

1. Walks: movement plus sniffing
2. Play: tug, fetch (carefully), chase games
3. Training: mental work that tires the brain
4. Rest: a skill, not an accident

Over-exercising can create a fitter dog that needs even more activity. Balance matters.

Puppies

General rule: keep it short and safe.

• multiple short walks instead of one long one
• avoid long runs and lots of stairs
• focus on sniffing and training games

A tired puppy can look hyper. Build nap routines.

Adult dogs

Most adult dogs do well with:

• one longer walk plus one or two short walks
• a short training session daily
• a few minutes of play

High-energy breeds often need structured activity plus mental work.

Senior dogs

Seniors still need movement, but:

• go slower
• keep sessions shorter
• add gentle brain games and sniffing

If your dog suddenly slows down, talk to your vet.

Signs your dog needs more (or less)

Needs more:

• restless pacing
• attention-seeking barking
• chewing inappropriate items

Needs less:

• limping
• excessive panting
• refusing walks
• irritability after activity

If in doubt, ask your vet, especially for puppies and seniors.

FAQ

Is a backyard enough exercise?

Usually not. Dogs still need sniffing, novelty, and mental work. A yard is great, but it rarely replaces walks.

Is fetch the best exercise?

Fetch can help, but it can also be repetitive and hard on joints. Mix it with sniffing and training games.

How do I tire my dog without long walks?

Use sniff walks, training games, food puzzles, and short play sessions. Mental work is powerful.

Can I run with my puppy?

Ask your vet. Many puppies should avoid sustained running until their growth plates mature.

Next step

Ready to narrow down the best fit for your lifestyle?