Vet reveals the one dog breed that needs more walks than any other. Is your pup getting enough?
If you've ever wondered whether a quick trot around the block counts as enough exercise for your four-legged friend, you're not alone. Pet owners across the globe often wrestle with the question:
How much walking is too much—or not enough—for my dog?
Well, Australian veterinarian
Dr. Nicole Rous
has finally set the record straight, and her advice might surprise even the most seasoned dog parents.
Age matters: Tailoring walks to your dog's life stage
In a now-viral TikTok video, Dr. Rous lays down a clear, age-based blueprint for canine cardio. According to a report from the
Express
, for those navigating the high-energy world of puppyhood, her rule of thumb is simple yet effective: five minutes of walk per month of age, twice a day. So a sprightly four-month-old pup should be clocking in 20 minutes of active play
two times
daily—whether that's garden romps or playful leash-led adventures.
But don't expect that same math to apply forever. Once dogs grow into adulthood, their exercise needs evolve. Dr. Rous recommends anywhere between 30 to 60 minutes of daily movement, but this number doesn't stand alone—it sways heavily depending on your dog's breed and temperament.
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The breed that needs more miles
So which breed is leading the leash in terms of needing the
most
exercise? Without a doubt, it's the border collie. Described by Dr. Rous as a 'really active breed,' these energetic dynamos may require up to two full hours of physical and mental stimulation daily to stay balanced and happy.
'These dogs thrive on activity. They're not just chasing tennis balls—they're herding invisible sheep and solving puzzles in their heads,' she explains. For them, a casual stroll simply won't cut it. On the flip side, more sedentary breeds like bulldogs might be perfectly content with two 20-minute jaunts each day.
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Border collies top the list as the most active breed, needing up to two hours daily.
Elderly but energetic: Why senior dogs still need walks
When it comes to senior dogs, Dr. Rous encourages owners to stay consistent—but gentle. Thirty to sixty minutes of exercise is still key, but surfaces matter more now than ever. Think grassy parks instead of hard pavements, and consider activities like hydrotherapy, which offers muscle engagement without stressing aging joints.
'Exercise is still
so
important even for dogs with arthritis,' says Dr. Rous. 'We want to keep their brains engaged and their bodies moving, just like we do with elderly humans.'
Whether you're raising a frolicking pup, jogging alongside an adult companion, or gently pacing with a senior, one fact remains: consistent exercise isn't just about burning calories—it's about building a life of vitality for your dog.
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