How often should you walk your dog?

It's the question I get asked more than any other here in Northwich: how much walking does my dog actually need? The honest answer is that it depends, but there are some good rules of thumb to work from.

Start with breed and energy level

A working breed like a collie or spaniel will happily go all day, while a flat-faced breed such as a pug needs shorter, gentler outings, especially in warm weather. As a general guide:

• High-energy breeds (collies, spaniels, labradors): 1.5–2 hours a day, ideally with some off-lead time.
• Medium-energy breeds (terriers, retrievers): around 1 hour a day.
• Lower-energy or brachycephalic breeds (pugs, bulldogs): two or three shorter 20–30 minute walks.

Don't forget age

Puppies need little and often: a common guide is five minutes of walking per month of age, twice a day. Senior dogs often prefer shorter, sniffy strolls that keep their minds busy without overdoing the joints.

It's about quality, not just quantity

A 'sniffari', where you let your dog stop and sniff to their heart's content, can be more tiring and satisfying than a brisk march. Mental stimulation matters just as much as physical exercise.

If your dog isn't getting enough during the working week, that's exactly where a midday solo or group walk helps. Get in touch if you'd like to talk through a routine that suits your dog.