Do Dogs Need Days Off from Walking to Stay Healthy

Dogs need days off from walking to stay healthy, and it's not just a matter of giving them a break. According to research, dogs that walk less than 30 minutes a day are more likely to live longer.

Regular walking can be great for dogs, but overdoing it can lead to joint problems. For example, a study found that dogs that walked more than 60 minutes a day were more likely to develop hip dysplasia.

Giving your dog a day off from walking can help prevent overuse injuries. In fact, some dogs may need as many as 2-3 days off per week to allow their joints to recover.

Readers also liked: Dog Days

Puppies under 18 months should never be walked too far, as their bones are still developing and long walks can lead to painful joint problems.

Every dog is different, and some may need more rest than others. For example, a 4-year-old English Shepherd may not need a rest day, while a 10-year-old Cocker Spaniel may be happy with just 1-3 mile walks per day.

For another approach, see: How Old Should Male Dogs Be for Neutering

Introducing rest days can help prevent stress and health issues in dogs. Frequent production of too much cortisol can lead to problems like a suppressed immune system, pancreatitis, and digestive issues.

Consider your dog's age, weight, and health conditions before establishing a walking routine. For instance, a 4-year-old Labrador may require frequent walks to burn energy, while an older dog with arthritis may need only short treks.

Some dogs may pull to go home due to frustration or stress, as seen in a 16-year-old dog owner's experience. Giving them a break from walks, even short ones, can help.

The key is to know your dog's limitations and read their temperament after exercise. A calm dog is a happy dog!

Here's a rough guide to exercise and rest for dogs of different ages:

Remember, every dog is unique, and it's essential to tailor your approach to their individual needs.

Rest is essential for dogs, especially for young puppies whose bones are still developing. Taking them on long walks or runs before 18 months could lead to early joint problems.

Puppies can become overwhelmed by daily walks, especially if they've had negative experiences in the past. This can cause an unfavorable level of stress during walks.

High levels of cortisol in a puppy's system can lead to health issues like a suppressed immune system, pancreatitis, digestive problems, and skin issues. Remy's owner realizes that true working dogs might rarely get an "easy" day, but every dog is different with different "jobs" and activities.

If you've recently introduced a new running or walking routine for your dog, or increased your mileage, a rest day is a must. Your dog might still have energy, but rest is crucial for both mental and physical health.

For example, Remy's owner schedules a rest day on Sundays, which is a long run day. This allows her dog to mentally check out and enjoy an easy stroll.

For another approach, see: Dog Health Care

Dogs don't need daily walks, and in fact, conventional walks can be created by humans and not always helpful to our furry friends.

Not all dogs benefit from daily walks, and some may even be made more excited and reactive by them.

Replacing daily walks with training games at home can be a more beneficial option for your dog's happiness and calmness.

Short training sessions can work wonders, giving your dog the skills they lack.

According to Niki French, a dog trainer and author, her rescue dog Brodie has benefited from more enriching games and fewer walks, becoming markedly calmer.