Tool
Exercise needs guide
A realistic daily target built from your dog's size, life stage and energy — including the mental work most plans forget.
Daily physical exercise
60 min
Plus mental enrichment
20 min
How to split the time
- Sniffing walks: at least a third of the total. A slow, nose-led walk tires a dog more than the same time spent marching.
- Free movement: off-lead or long-line time where your dog chooses the pace.
- Structured work: short training sessions, scent games, chews and puzzle feeders — this is the enrichment number above.
Puppies need less than you think
A common rule of thumb is around five minutes of formal exercise per month of age, once or twice a day, with free play and sleep making up the rest. Puppies need far more sleep than most owners expect. Our estimate deliberately scales puppy targets down for this reason.
Adjust for reality
Heat, humidity, flat-faced breeds, joint conditions, recent surgery and growing joints all reduce safe exercise. If your dog is stiff the next day, lagging behind, or overheating, cut the duration and speak to your vet.
This information is general and educational. It is not veterinary advice and cannot diagnose, treat or prevent disease. Speak to a licensed veterinarian about your dog's health.