How Far Should You Walk A Puppy?
Welcoming a new puppy into the household is an exciting time for families. Most new puppy owners will be champing at the bit to get out and walk their cute new four-legged bundle. However, it is important that puppies don’t get walked too far, or for too long. Read our Holidays4Dogs article to find out how far you should walk a puppy.
Long walks and sustained exercise can put unnecessary strain on a puppy’s developing bones and muscles. Walking puppies too far, or for too long, can contribute to developmental problems in later life, such as hip-dysplasia.
Looking after a small puppy can be hard. They appear to have a lot of energy and many owners are keen to wear their puppy out by taking them on long walks. However, this isn’t a good idea for the growing pup.
The growing puppy.
Just like human toddlers, a puppy’s bones are constantly growing. Growth plates are located at either end of the limb joints and, in young puppies, the growth plates are weaker.
This means, they are at higher risk of becoming damaged by trauma. This can include, walking too far, jumping and twisting. High impact exercise like chasing a ball for long periods, or running long distances should be avoided.
Large breeds, in particular, are at an even higher risk of developing orthopaedic problems associated with over exercise, or boisterous play.
Over exercise can cause pain and lameness in puppies which can be difficult to treat. Therefore, it is always best to be cautious when it comes to puppy exercise.
How long is too long to walk a puppy?
The general accepted guidance on walking puppies is, roughly, five minutes per walk for every month of their life. Check out our list below for a rough guide on puppy walking time by age.
I’ll never wear my puppy out with a 15 minute walk! What can I do instead?
Of course, puppies need exercise, but they all need a lot of mental stimulation and just as much sleep.
The trouble with puppies is they don’t always know when to stop. While you think you’re dog is happy keeping up with you on a three mile hike, this doesn’t mean to say he, or she, isn’t feeling the pressure. Most pups will power through, but this can mean extra strain is being put upon those delicate growing joints.
Once your pup has completed their vaccinations, they are safe to go out and about. Socialising is really important for the developing puppy, so short trips to different environments is always good.
Not only will your puppy get some fresh air and exercise, he will also be mentally stimulated with new sights and sounds. Always make sure experiences are positive ones.
Sniff walks are an
excellent way for puppies to explore and use up some energy, without involving high-impact exercise.
These can be short strolls 1 or 2 times per day. Sniffing is very relaxing for dogs and it also has the added benefit of tiring dogs out – especially puppies.
Play is also very important, so several short play sessions throughout the day will help keep your puppy entertained.
It is best to avoid any activities that involve jumping, or twisting. Puzzle toys are brilliant for puppies, providing low impact exercise and plenty of brain activity.
When can I take my puppy for longer walks?
Once growth has finished and bones have fused, dogs can be walked any amount of time – although it’s still probably best to build this up gradually. Small to medium dogs mature physically at around 12 months of age. Large and giant breeds tend to take much longer – typically 18 months to 2 years.
Do bear in mind no dog should be walked in extreme heat and extra care should be taken with flat-faced breeds, such as pugs and bulldogs, especially on hot summer days.
At Holidays4Dogs we have lots of carers who will welcome puppies with open arms! You can be sure your puppy will be exercised responsibly and carefully. Do give us a call to discuss your requirements.
