We all know walks are important for our four-legged friends, but how much exercise do dogs really need?
Walks are excellent for your dog's"overall mental and physical well-being", says veterinarian Dr. Glass. They help keep your dog happy and healthy, but the number of walks they need will depend on a number of factors.
Counting steps
While each dog is an individual, they typically need between 30 minutes to 2 hours of exercise a day.
Whether or not they benefit from more or less exercise may be influenced by their size, age and breed type, but owners should be aiming for between 5,000-8,000 steps for a medium-sized dog.
Important socialisation
Walks aren't just about exercise, Dr. Glass explains. "Each time you step out of the door they will have the opportunity to take in new sights and smells as well as socialise with other dogs and people".
Ultimately, walks should never just be used to talk your dog to the toilet. They are essential for long-term well-being and can even increase the lifespan of your pet.
