Dog Exercise Guide: How Much Does Your Dog Need?

Discover the right amount and type of exercise for your dog's breed, age, and health status.

10 min read Updated 2026

Table of Contents

Exercise by Breed Type Exercise by Age Types of Exercise Exercise Safety

Exercise by Breed Type

Exercise needs vary dramatically by breed. Working and sporting breeds (Labs, GSPs, Border Collies) need 60-120 minutes daily. Terriers and herding breeds need 45-60 minutes. Toy and brachycephalic breeds may only need 20-30 minutes. Always match exercise to your dog's individual needs and health status.

Exercise by Age

Puppies: Follow the "5-minute rule" — 5 minutes of structured exercise per month of age, twice daily. Avoid high-impact activities until growth plates close. Adults: Full exercise appropriate for their breed. Seniors: Maintain activity but reduce intensity and duration. Swimming and gentle walks are excellent for older dogs.

Types of Exercise

Physical exercise includes walks, runs, swimming, fetch, and dog sports. Mental exercise is equally important: puzzle toys, training sessions, nose work, and food-dispensing toys. A combination of physical and mental exercise produces the happiest, most well-behaved dogs.

Exercise Safety

In 2026, extreme heat events are increasingly common. Avoid exercise during peak heat (10am-4pm in summer). Test pavement with your hand — if it's too hot for you, it's too hot for paws. Watch for signs of overexertion: excessive panting, drooling, stumbling, or collapse. Always carry water on walks over 20 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

It depends on breed, age, and health. Most adult dogs need 30-60 minutes of exercise daily. High-energy breeds may need 60-120 minutes. Consult your vet for personalized recommendations.
Yes, over-exercising puppies can damage developing joints and growth plates. Follow the 5-minute-per-month rule for structured exercise and avoid high-impact activities until fully grown.
Try different activities like swimming, fetch, tug-of-war, or nose work games. Some dogs prefer short, frequent activities over long walks. If reluctance is sudden, consult your vet to rule out pain.