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Every dog needs a different amount of exercise! See how to tailor it to breed and life stage, with 6 fun activities.
As a dog lover, what we want most is to see our dogs happy and with us for a long time. Beyond good food, "daily exercise" is a key to health and a long life. But did you know each dog needs a different amount? Today I'll show you how to exercise your dog to suit both breed and life stage, plus a practical walking plan.
The right amount and type depends on many factors — age, breed, health, temperament, and body size. Research shows a dog's physical activity clearly varies with age and body size: younger dogs are far more active than seniors, and exercise requirements are usually defined by breed (which is closely linked to size and each breed's typical energy) (Frontiers in Veterinary Science, 2025). So high-energy breeds like the Siberian Husky or German Shepherd need more vigorous activity than laid-back breeds like the English Bulldog or Shih Tzu. Puppies may be lively, but be careful not to overexert them and harm their growing bodies (read more on estimating your dog's age for stage-appropriate care).
Chasing a ball or frisbee is excellent cardio. Add a challenge by tossing it into tall grass so your dog uses their nose to search.
Stimulates body and mind through new scents and climbing over obstacles. Caution: bring enough water, and never let your dog off-leash where it isn't allowed.
Have your dog sniff out hidden treats or scents — a great way to exercise the brain alongside the body.
Toss a toy up the stairs for your dog to chase, but avoid slippery surfaces and skip it entirely if your dog has a history of joint or musculoskeletal disease.
Very joint-friendly cardio for water-loving dogs. Make sure it's safe, clean, and supervise closely the whole time.
Running an obstacle course challenges both body and mind. Take a course with a trainer, or set up simple obstacles in your own backyard.
If your dog has normal heart and lungs and no serious underlying disease, you can start a walking program at least 2 times a week with target of 2 km. Research also shows structured exercise done together with the owner supports both the health and good behavior of dogs (Scientific Reports, 2024).
For dog with heart condition, the researchers suggest to start the exercise at low speed for 2-3 times a week. The improve clinical signs and cardiac function was strictly monitored under heart rate and lactate measurements. The program includes warm up for 5 minutes, walk slowly at 1.5 km/hr for 20 minutes, and cool down for 5 minutes. (Animals, 2025)
The best exercise is the kind that "suits your dog" and "can be done consistently." Don't compare with other dogs — just understand your own dog's breed, life stage, and health, and build a fun routine together. That's one of the best health gifts you can give. If you're unsure how ready your dog is, consult your vet before starting a program, and pair it with proactive care in preventive medicine.
1. How many minutes a day should a dog exercise?
Generally about 30 minutes of aerobic exercise per day, but high-energy breeds like Huskies or Shepherds need more, while laid-back breeds like Bulldogs or Shih Tzus need lighter activity.
2. How often should a dog exercise?
Walk at least about 2-3 times a week, which essentially having effects on heart rate and sympathetic modulation of cardiac activity and preserving cardiac function.
3. Which activities exercise the brain at the same time?
Activities that work body and brain — nose work, fetch in tall grass, agility, and hiking — tire dogs out and calm them effectively.
