Walks, play and happy, tired dogs

Plain answers to the questions dog owners ask about exercise, with the sources we read to write them.

Why is it important to walk your dog?Walks keep a dog at a healthy weight, keep joints moving and give a busy brain something to do. Here is what the vets and the studies say, and how much is enough.Read the articleHow often should you walk your dog?Most dogs need at least one or two walks a day. How long those walks should be depends on breed, age and health. What the PDSA, PetMD and the AKC each say.Read the articleHow to remember to walk your dogForgetting the walk is rarely about not caring. It is about not having a cue. Seven ways to make the daily walk automatic, based on what habit research has found.Read the articleHow to stay accountable for walking your dogGuilt does not get dogs walked. Tracking, a clear goal, company and going easy on yourself do. What the research on motivation says, applied to the daily walk.Read the articleWhat happens if you do not walk your dog?A missed walk is not a disaster. Weeks without exercise are another matter. Here is what the evidence says about weight, joints, boredom and behaviour, and how to get going again.Read the articleIs walking enough exercise for a dog?For many dogs a good daily walk is plenty. For high-energy breeds it is only the start. How to tell which dog you have, and what to add if a walk is not enough.Read the articleIs playing enough exercise for a dog?Play is real exercise, and a garden is a fine place for it. It still does not replace a walk. What play gives a dog, what only a walk gives, and how to balance the two.Read the articleIs fetch enough exercise for a dog?Fetch is fast, fun and tiring, but it should not be the only exercise a dog gets. What vets say about the benefits and the joint risks, and how to play it more safely.Read the articleDo I need to run with my dog?No dog needs you to take up running. Some love it and some should not do it at all. Which dogs suit running, when a young dog is old enough, and how to start safely.Read the articleWhat is the best exercise for a dog?There is no single best exercise for dogs. Walking is the base, and the rest depends on your dog. Walking, running, fetch, swimming, hiking and games compared.Read the articleHow much exercise does a puppy need?Puppies need short outings, free play and lots of rest. What the five minute rule is, who recommends it, who doubts it, and how to tell when a puppy has had enough.Read the article