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Dogs are just like us in the sense that they benefit from exercise. Just like children, dogs can get over-exerted which can cause health and development issues. So how much is too much?
Here is some detailed information on how much exercise your puppy should get:
Make sure you’re consistent with the amount of exercise your puppy gets. You need to help him build his stamina, and the only way he can do this is by exercising regularly but with caution. At the puppy stage, he’s much too young to be doing the rigorous activities that he will be more able to do as he grows older.The amount of exercise your puppy needs depends on his age, breed and medical condition. Not every breed will be up for a long walk through Central Park. Some breeds are just not built to go the distance, while others are always ready to romp. Some of the breeds that need the most exercise are Border collies, Labrador retrievers, Jack Russell terriers and Dalmatians.
Puppies need five minutes of exercise per month of age up to twice a day, according to the U.K. Kennel Club. In other words, a 3-month-old puppy will need 15 minutes of exercise while a 4-month-old will need 20 minutes. This may take the form of low-impact activities like swimming or playing with small dog exercise balls. You can also take your puppy out for short walks on a leash. However, if he starts to sit down, give him time to rest. If he does not start walking again, you may have to carry him home.
Most adult dogs should participate in some form of physical activity for at least 30 minutes and up to two hours every day. Your puppy’s genetics will determine when it’s time to move her up to adult dog exercise. If she won’t get any larger than 25 pounds (11 kilograms), then she can start at around 9 months. If she’ll end up weighing between 25 to 100 pounds (11 to 45 kilograms), it’s best to wait until she’s at least 14 months old. If she’ll be tipping the scale at 100 pounds (45 kilograms) or more, you can introduce these activities to her when she is at least a year and a half old.
Always pay attention to how your dog acts before, during and after their work out to make sure they are not dreading it and working out too much.
Does your puppy ever seem to tired for their daily workout?
Image Source: davdunc on Flickr
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