The lowdown on puppy exercise
Puppies are bundles of energy and need exercise to stay physically and mentally fit. But there are limits as to what their little bodies can tolerate…
Unlike adult dogs, a puppy’s bones and joints are still developing, and over-excising them can cause damage that leads to chronic health issues, such as early arthritis.
The amount of exercise your puppy needs will depend on its age, breed, and size, but as a rule, PDSA, a veterinary charity based in the UK, recommends five minutes of activity per month of age, twice a day. So, if your pup is three months old, that means 15 minutes of exercise twice a day and if it’s six months old, 30 minutes of exercise twice a day, or an hour in total.
Of course, every puppy is unique: some might need more activity, others less. Either way, start slowly and allow your puppy to build up fitness in a safe, sustainable way. Free playtime is just as important as structured exercise, and so too is rest!
When it comes to types of exercise, daily walks are a firm favourite because they provide so much stimulation for puppies, including the chance to socialise. Make sure your pet is fully vaccinated before venturing out into public spaces though and allow it to set the pace. Keep in mind that concrete, tar, and pebble surfaces can be sore for little paws to walk on, so try to make sure there is some grass or cool sand available en route as well.
If you’re going to let your puppy off the lead, make sure it’s trained to return to you when you call its name. And never exercise your puppy on a full stomach as this can contribute to digestive discomfort and bloating.
While walks are wonderful, puppies love other forms of exercise as well, including playing catch, tug of war, wrestling, safe swimming and running around with other puppies. Training activities and games with toys – including the use of feeding toys at mealtimes – count too.
As your dog grows, its exercise needs will increase, but your vet can advise you on what’s appropriate. Generally, large breeds need more exercise than small breeds, while medium breeds need moderate activity. Flat-faced dogs such as Boston terriers and bulldogs shouldn’t exercise for too long as they can battle to breathe.
