How Much Exercise Do Dogs Need?

As the domestic pandemic situation gradually improves, many pet owners, after making adequate precautions, are eager to take their dogs out for walks on leashes. This has led to a phenomenon of "revenge walks" where dogs are taken out more frequently than usual. Additionally, during the pandemic, residents in Spain took advantage of legal loopholes and used various means to "walk their dogs" as an excuse to get some fresh air, which not only exhausted the dogs but also was counterproductive to pandemic control efforts.

In urban areas, most dogs weigh between 5-15 kg. Small breeds like Chihuahuas and Toy Poodles are at the lower end of the scale, while larger breeds like Golden Retrievers and Alaskan Malamutes are at the higher end. Small dogs generally have low exercise needs; for those under 5 kg, regular indoor activities are usually sufficient. Pet owners can engage in short games inside the house with a leash to maintain their dog's activity level. For dogs weighing around 10 kg, they should have some outdoor time, typically around 15 minutes of walking on a leash. For dogs weighing between 10-15 kg, at least 30 minutes of exercise is recommended. The general guideline is that a 20 kg dog requires at least 60 minutes of exercise, and a 25 kg dog should be walked for 120 minutes or more. Of course, these are general figures, and the specific amount and type of exercise should be tailored to each dog's physical condition and needs. Proper exercise helps maintain a dog’s health and vitality, while also strengthening the bond between the dog and its owner. However, excessive exercise—such as walking dogs excessively in a "revenge walk" style—is not advisable, as it can place undue strain on the dog's body and mind. This is particularly true for dogs over eight years old, as they begin to enter middle age, with increasing physical problems. Their exercise needs naturally decline, and without proper adjustments, excessive leash walking can cause muscle soreness, strain on ligaments, joints, bones, and even disrupt the blood circulation in the digestive system, leading to fatigue, indigestion, constipation, and other health issues. Some pet owners, due to their work schedules, tend to compress their dog's weekly leash exercise into just two days over the weekend, similar to the post-pandemic rush to take dogs for long walks. If the dog has not been regularly exercised during the week, suddenly engaging in intense physical activity on the weekends can also be harmful to the dog's heart. Therefore, while both dogs and humans need exercise, it is important to ensure the right amount and the appropriate method to maintain optimal health. Pet owners should remember to use the leash to exercise their dogs regularly at home and avoid overdoing it all at once!