Walk duration should match your dog's physical capabilities, energy level, and health status. Too little exercise leads to behavioral problems, while excessive exercise can cause injury or exhaustion.
Duration by Age
- Puppies (2–12 months): 10–20 minutes per walk, 3–5 times daily. Use the "5 minutes per month of age" rule (3-month puppy = 15 minute walks maximum).
- Adult dogs (1–7 years): 30–60 minutes per walk depending on breed and energy level. Most dogs thrive with at least one 30–45 minute walk daily.
- Senior dogs (8+ years): 20–40 minutes per walk, adjusting for arthritis, stamina, and health conditions. Multiple shorter walks often better than one long walk.
Duration by Breed Size and Type
Small breeds (under 20 lbs): 20–40 minutes per walk. Yorkshire Terriers, Chihuahuas, and Pomeranians have shorter legs but surprisingly high energy. Don't underestimate small breed exercise needs.
Medium breeds (20–50 lbs): 30–60 minutes per walk. Beagles, Cocker Spaniels, and Bulldogs vary widely in energy. Assess individual needs rather than relying solely on breed standards.
Large breeds (50–90 lbs): 45–75 minutes per walk. Labrador Retrievers, Golden Retrievers, and German Shepherds need substantial exercise for physical and mental health.
Giant breeds (90+ lbs): 30–60 minutes per walk. Great Danes, Mastiffs, and Newfoundlands need exercise but can tire quickly due to size. Monitor for fatigue.
High-Energy vs. Low-Energy Breeds
High-energy (60–90 minutes): Border Collies, Australian Shepherds, Huskies, Vizslas, Jack Russell Terriers. These breeds need extended walks plus additional exercise (fetch, agility, swimming).
Moderate-energy (30–60 minutes): Labs, Golden Retrievers, Boxers, Springer Spaniels, Poodles. Benefit from solid daily walks with optional extra playtime.
Low-energy (20–40 minutes): Bulldogs, Basset Hounds, Shih Tzus, Cavalier King Charles Spaniels, Pugs. Shorter walks sufficient but still necessary for health.
Weather-Based Adjustments
- Hot weather (80°F+): Shorten walks to 20–30 minutes during early morning (before 8am) or evening (after 7pm). Bring water and watch for panting, drooling, or slowing.
- Extreme heat (90°F+): Limit walks to 15–20 minutes. Test pavement with your hand—if too hot for your palm, it's too hot for paws. Consider indoor exercise alternatives.
- Cold weather (below 32°F): Most dogs handle 30–45 minute walks with movement keeping them warm. Small breeds and short-coated dogs need shorter walks (15–25 minutes).
- Extreme cold (below 20°F): Limit to 15–30 minutes depending on breed. Use dog boots and coats for sensitive breeds. Watch for shivering and paw lifting.
Fitness Level Progression
Start new dogs or out-of-shape dogs with shorter walks (15–20 minutes) and gradually increase duration over 2–4 weeks. Build endurance slowly to prevent injury. Watch for signs of fatigue: excessive panting, lagging behind, lying down, or reluctance to continue.
Signs Walk Duration Is Appropriate
- Dog is tired but not exhausted after walks
- Maintains healthy weight without excess fat
- Shows calm, settled behavior at home
- Eager for walks but not destructive between them
- Sleeps well and maintains regular appetite
Professional dog walkers typically offer 30-minute and 60-minute walk options to accommodate different breed needs. Book walks on Tails with experienced walkers who understand breed-specific requirements. See typical walk costs in our pet care rates guide.