How Much Exercise Does Your Dog Need? A Breed-Specific Guide to Keeping Your Pup Happy & Healthy
As a dog owner in Seattle, you know our city is full of dog-friendly parks, trails, and outdoor adventures—perfect for keeping your pup active. But how much exercise does your dog really need? The answer depends on their breed, size, and energy level. Consistent physical activity and mental enrichment are crucial for your dog’s health, behavior, and overall happiness.
At Seattle Canine Club, we’re passionate about helping dogs stay active, social, and engaged—whether through our dog daycare, group walks, or enrichment programs. In this guide, we’ll break down exercise recommendations by breed and explain how regular activity benefits your furry friend.
Exercise Needs by Breed & Size
Not all dogs require the same amount of exercise. A tiny Chihuahua has very different needs than a high-energy Border Collie. Here’s a general guideline:
Small Breeds (Chihuahuas, Pomeranians, Dachshunds, etc.)
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Daily Exercise: 30–60 minutes
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Activity Ideas: Short walks, indoor play, puzzle toys
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Why? Small dogs may tire quickly but still need mental stimulation to prevent boredom.
Medium Breeds (Beagles, Bulldogs, Cocker Spaniels, etc.)
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Daily Exercise: 60–90 minutes
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Activity Ideas: Leisurely walks, fetch, interactive games
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Why? These dogs benefit from a mix of physical and mental exercise to stay fit and engaged.
Large & High-Energy Breeds (Labradors, German Shepherds, Huskies, etc.)
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Daily Exercise: 90–120+ minutes
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Activity Ideas: Long walks, hiking, agility training, swimming
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Why? Working and sporting breeds thrive on vigorous activity—without it, they may develop destructive behaviors.
Giant Breeds (Great Danes, Mastiffs, Saint Bernards, etc.)
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Daily Exercise: 30–60 minutes (moderate activity)
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Activity Ideas: Gentle walks, short play sessions
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Why? Giant breeds are prone to joint issues, so low-impact exercise is best.
The Benefits of Consistent Exercise & Enrichment
Regular activity isn’t just about tiring out your pup—it’s essential for their physical health, mental well-being, and behavior. Here’s why exercise matters:
✅ Prevents Obesity & Health Issues – Sedentary dogs are at higher risk for weight gain, diabetes, and joint problems.
✅ Reduces Destructive Behaviors – Bored dogs may chew furniture, bark excessively, or dig. Exercise helps burn off excess energy.
✅ Improves Socialization – Dogs that interact with others (whether at a park or daycare) develop better manners and confidence.
✅ Boosts Mental Stimulation – Sniffing, exploring, and problem-solving (like with puzzle toys) keep your dog’s brain sharp.
How Seattle Canine Club Can Help
We know life gets busy—between work, errands, and Seattle’s unpredictable weather, fitting in long walks or play sessions isn’t always easy. That’s where we come in!
At Seattle Canine Club, we offer:
🐾 Dog Daycare – A safe, supervised space for your pup to play, socialize, and burn energy.
🐾 Group & Solo Walks – Tailored to your dog’s pace and needs, ensuring they get the right amount of exercise.
🐾 Enrichment Activities – From puzzle toys to agility exercises, we keep your dog mentally engaged.
Whether you have a high-energy working dog or a laid-back senior, we customize our services to keep your pup happy and healthy.
Final Thoughts
Every dog deserves a lifestyle that matches their energy level and instincts. By providing consistent exercise and enrichment, you’re setting your pup up for a longer, happier life. And if you ever need support, Seattle Canine Club is here to help!
Ready to give your dog the activity they need? Explore our services today!
For more information on a variety of topics, visit our blog page! We talk about topics like tips on raising your first dog, our dog of the month Charlotte, and pollen season and how you can tackle it!
