All dogs need to be walked. Walking your dog is great for their physical and mental health. It helps reduce their extra weight, lowers their blood pressure, and gives them fresh air. However, one question you, as a pet owner, must be wondering is, ‘How long should private dog walks be?’ 

Determining how long (and often) the dog walks depends on various factors, such as your dog’s breed, age, and energy level. Confused? Fret not! This article will help you explore how long private dog walks should be and much more.

Why Are Dog Walks Important?

Before we learn how long a private dog walk should take, let’s first understand why walking is crucial for dogs. If your dog can get sufficient exercise from running in the backyard, why take them for a walk?

Honestly, taking your dog for a walk every day can provide more than just physical activity for your furry friend. In fact, it’s an integral component of dog behavior training. Let’s explore some reasons why daily dog strolls are essential.

Decreases Behavioral Issues

If dogs are kept indoors the entire day, they may display aggression or engage in excessive chewing and barking habits. Many pet dogs show unwanted behavior, with 72–85% having at least one behavior problem.

Sitting idle at home all day can make humans agitated or depressed at trivial things – dogs are no different. Dogs are naturally active. When they don’t have a way to release all pent-up energy, they get irritated and develop behavioral problems. Boredom is a major problem for pups, often leading to destructive behavior.

To prevent this, you must find a way to keep your furry friend entertained, and what better way than a nice walk outside?

Helps Them Manage Anti-Social Tendencies 

Keeping dogs indoors for long periods can make them lazy or even anti-social. Socializing your dog is best when it is a puppy. However, you must maintain your pet’s social skills throughout life. Regular dog walks can help with this.  

Regular outings allow your dog to meet new people, face different situations, and interact with other dogs. However, walking the same route every day can get boring. If possible, alter the route or explore a different park.

This will allow your pup to interact with new people and discover a new group of dogs.

Best Time to Evaluate Training Results

It’s extremely crucial to train your furry companion. However, how can you be certain they have learned the new skill correctly? When your dog walker walks your pup, they are exposed to different scents, sounds, and diversions.

This provides the ideal time to try out a new skill or trick. You can work on commands such as “come” or “sit” and reward them with treats when they follow your instructions.

Helps Stay Fit and Healthy

Every pet owner knows how quickly their furry friends can gain weight without enough exercise. Canine obesity can lead to various health problems, such as arthritis, liver issues, insulin resistance, and heart disease.

According to one report, 56% of dogs in the US are either obese or overweight. Taking your overweight dog for a daily walk can help it lose some extra pounds, avoid obesity, and maintain good muscle and joint health. This routine promotes the well-being of your dog’s heart and urinary system.

Routine walks also regulate your dog’s digestive system.

Improves Adaptability

A dog that is always inside will typically show reluctance to change – and become less adaptable. Taking dogs on frequent walks is important for their learning. If pups are not exposed to new sounds or smells, they won’t learn to differentiate between different smells.

This could make your dog uncomfortable in places it’s not used to.

Boost Mental Stimulation

Did you know that walking your dog isn’t just good for their body and mind? Daily walks give dogs the mental stimulation they need to stay happy and healthy.

Woofing at other dogs, following new scents, and exploring new paths are great mental exercises for your furry friend. You have probably noticed how focused your canine is during walks. It’s their chance to explore the neighborhood.

Pro tip: Let them take “sniff breaks” for even more mental enrichment.

Now that we know why walks are crucial let’s examine the factors that affect how long private dog walks should take.

How Long Should Private Dog Walks Be: Factors That Affect the Length of the Walk

Every dog needs a daily walk. But how often and for how long should the private dog walk be? It depends on various factors, as each dog is different.

Typically, dogs need at least two 15-20-minute walks each day. However, some dogs may need more or less. You’ll have to find out what works best for your dog. Here are a few factors you should consider when determining how long the private walk should be:

Dog Breed

Different dog breeds need different amounts of exercise. Working or sporting breeds like Australian Shepherds or Border Collies may need more exercise than lap dogs such as Papillons and Yorkshire Terriers.

However, breed is not the only factor – individual preference also plays a role. For example, while some Basset Hounds are born athletes, others choose to lounge on the couch. And canines that are stressed suffer from separation anxiety, or exhibit destructive behavior can benefit from increased exercise.

It is important to be careful when walking or exercising flat-faced breeds such as Pugs or Boxers. They can hardly match your pace for half an hour. This is because these dogs are more prone to overheating, so pet owners or dog walkers must watch for symptoms of heatstroke while walking them.

If you plan to hike with your doggo, low-energy breeds like these may not be the best choice.

Age of Your Dog

Your dog’s age affects how much exercise they need. Younger canines have more energy and usually need more walks than middle-aged dogs (5–8 years old) or senior dogs (9 years or older). But again, this is not a hard and fast rule – there are always exceptions.

Let’s explore it further.

Puppies

Due to their lower endurance than adult dogs, puppies require more frequent potty breaks every 2 to 4 hours, so you won’t be able to take them on long outings. If you own a small teacup poodle puppy, it’s better not to walk them around the block – it’s too far for them.

Before you take your puppy on longer walks, make sure it’s comfortable walking on a leash. Practice with them in a safe area, such as the backyard. Begin by walking the puppy back and forth in front of the home, gradually increasing the difficulty level.

Often, puppies need to go to the bathroom soon after eating, so timing your walks accordingly can improve the effectiveness of potty training. Having a 10-week-old puppy means you could take them for a 10-minute walk two or three times daily.

It’s recommended to start with brief and regular walks during the initial months. For a 10-week-old puppy, short walks of about 10 minutes, two or three times a day, are best. It’s recommended to start with short and regular walks during their first few months.

Adult Dogs

Adult dogs, especially those in their prime, can walk longer. Depending on their breed and energy level, they can manage 30-40-minute walks easily. However, if your dog is not very active or out of shape, a 10 to 15-minute walk is a good way to begin. 

Just like with puppies, keep the walk brief and enjoyable. Monitor your dog’s speed and ensure they are not lagging or pushing ahead of you. If so, you may have to slow down or increase your pace. If your dog is healthy, you can slowly extend their walks or take them out two times daily.

The length of the walk depends on your dog’s energy and personality. Short walks can help dogs with mobility issues prevent joint stiffness and inflammation. For bigger dogs, a harness can help them move. 

Senior Dogs

If your senior dog is excited and able to walk, exercise is a great way to keep them fit and happy. Moreover, senior canines can also benefit from experiencing new sounds, sights, and smells, which keeps their stimulation up.

Typically, a 20-30 minute walk is enough for senior dogs. However, the pace needs to be slow. If your pooch has arthritis, gentle, regular exercise can help their condition. Seek advice from your vet and keep an eye on your dog for any signs of discomfort or tiredness, such as limping, lying down, stopping, heavy panting, or struggling with curbs. 

If the walk is too tiring or lengthy, consider putting your dog in a wagon or stroller to give them some rest.

Health Condition: Your Pup’s Exercise Tolerance 

When determining the length of a private walk, it’s important to consider your dog’s health. Most dogs can handle a 20-30-minute walk daily if they’re in good body condition. Canines in great physical health may walk for up to two hours or hike for hours. 

However, obese or overweight dogs may struggle even with a 10-minute walk and need frequent breaks. During the stroll, watch the dog’s energy. If it slows down after about 25-30 minutes, it might be getting tired.

Instead of walking briskly, your dog may pant and sniff around more often. Head back home and see if their pace slows down even more. If the dog continues to slow down, it has walked too far. Next time, plan for a shorter walk to account for the return trip.

After the walk, check your furry friend’s behavior. If the dog drinks water and rests on its bed for a long time, it may have overdone it. 

Signs Your Dog Needs a Longer Stroll

No matter what, you must pay attention to your dog’s behavior before and after a walk. This will help determine whether your dog gets sufficient exercise or requires additional activity. 

Here are a few signs that your pup may require a longer or tougher stroll:

• Restlessness: If your dog is moving around, barking, or seeking attention repeatedly after a walk, they could still have extra energy.
• Destructive Behavior: Chewing on furniture, shoes, or digging may indicate your dog lacks adequate exercise.
• Hyperactivity: If your dog bounces off the walls even after a walk, it shows that they need more time outside.

Signs Your Dog Needs a Shorter Walk

On the flip side, some dogs may overexert themselves on their walks. Here are signs your dog may need a short, slow-paced stroll:

• Excessive Panting: Although panting during exercise is normal, persistent panting – even after a brief rest period – may indicate that your dog is overheated or overexerted.
• Limping or Stiffness: If your dog seems sore or stiff after a walk, especially the next day, you may be pushing them too hard.
• Lagging Behind: When your dog begins to move slowly or stops to rest during a walk, it’s a clear sign they’ve had enough and need a break.

Dog Walking Tips to Consider

We all know dog walking can be a great way to keep your pup active and happy. To make each walk enjoyable and safe, follow these practical tips:

• Select the correct collar and leash from the start – they should be comfortable, properly fitted, and reliable.
• Use the leash with rewards and praise so your dog gets used to it and feels comfortable.
• Ensure your dog has an ID tag that includes your contact information – this is legally mandatory in most US states.
• Puppies are still learning, so be patient and consistent during walks.
• Ensure your puppy is taught to return to you when you say their name.
• Always bring poop bags when walking your dog and dispose of their waste properly and safely.
• Know where you can walk your dog and check if any stops along the way are dog-friendly.
• Be sure to bring along all necessary food, treats, water, and toys.
• Avoid walking your puppy right after eating, as it can increase the risk of bloat.
  

Conclusion

So, how long should private dog walks be? 

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer, but you can determine the ideal length for your dog’s walks by considering its breed, age, health, and energy level. Remember to check your furry friend’s behavior during and after the walk and adjust accordingly.

Remember, walks are not just about physical exercise but also a chance for your dog to socialize and interact. Looking for a reliable dog-walking service? Look no further than OCPupScouts! They offer a range of services, including Private Walks, which give your dog a safe and enjoyable outing tailored just for them.

Contact us today to schedule a perfect private walk for your pup!