At Aspen Commons Animal Hospital in Southeast Denver, CO, one of the most common questions we hear from dog parents is: “How much exercise does my dog really need?” While Fido may seem content lounging on the couch all day, he likely craves more physical and mental stimulation than we realize. Knowing your dog’s exercise needs is crucial to maintaining his weight, mood, behavior, and long-term health. As your neighborhood vet clinic, we’re here to help you match your dog’s routine to his unique breed, age, and energy level.
Exercise isn’t just about chasing tennis balls—it’s a full-body and brain workout. Whether you’ve got a bouncy Border Collie or a mellow Mastiff, giving your canine buddy the right outlet improves his quality of life and reduces the risk of health issues down the road.
How Much Exercise Do Dogs Really Need?
The short answer? It depends. But every dog needs daily movement. High-energy breeds, like Labs, Huskies, Border Collies), may need as much as 1–2 hours daily, minimum, while a senior may only need a few short walks.
Beyond duration, the type of exercise matters. A 30-minute sniffari walk may tire out your pup more than a brief sprint around the yard. Dogs need both aerobic activity (like jogging or fetch) and mental engagement (like puzzles or training games) to feel fulfilled.
Dog Activity by Breed
Not all dogs were built for the same lifestyle. Knowing your pup’s lineage can help you tailor his routine.
Working breeds like Dobermans or Rottweilers often enjoy structured activities—think agility courses, hiking, or training drills.
Herding breeds like Australian Shepherds crave challenges. Give them “jobs” or enroll them in canine sports to burn off energy.
Toy breeds may have little legs, but they’re full of pep. Indoor play and short walks keep them active.
Sighthounds like Greyhounds enjoy brief sprints, but they’re surprisingly chill the rest of the time.
If you’re unsure of your dog’s breed mix, we can help you assess his body type, behavior, and stamina right here at our veterinary clinic in Southeast Denver.
Exercise Tips for Dogs in Southeast Denver
The Mile High City offers beautiful trails and dog parks—but be mindful of altitude, temperature, and terrain. Denver’s dry air can lead to faster dehydration, and summer’s hot pavement can burn paw pads.
Here are our top local exercise tips:
-
Time it right – Early mornings and evenings are cooler
-
Check pavement temps – If it’s too hot for your hand, it’s too hot for paws
-
Bring water – Hydration is key, even on short walks
-
Try urban trails – The Cherry Creek Trail and Washington Park paths are great dog-friendly options
-
Mix it up – Combine walking, sniffing, fetching, and training to keep things interesting
And don’t underestimate the value of indoor enrichment—hide-and-seek with treats, puzzle toys, and stair games are excellent ways to exercise on snow days or during poor air quality alerts.
Why Exercise Matters More Than You Think
Dogs who don’t get enough exercise often show signs like:
-
Restlessness or destructive behavior
-
Excessive barking or digging
-
Weight gain or joint stiffness
-
Anxiety or depression
On the flip side, a well-exercised pup is:
-
Better behaved
-
Mentally stimulated
-
Physically fit
-
More bonded to you
Regular activity helps prevent conditions like arthritis, obesity, and cardiovascular disease. It also supports healthy digestion, restful sleep, and improved mood—just like it does for us humans.
As a trusted veterinarian in Southeast Denver, our team at Aspen Commons Animal Hospital can help you customize your dog’s exercise plan to match his lifestyle and health status.
When to Adjust Your Dog’s Routine
Your dog’s needs will shift over time. Puppies require short, playful sessions with plenty of breaks. Adults can build stamina, while seniors may prefer shorter walks with more frequent rest.
Watch for signs that your pup may need a change:
-
Slowing down or resisting walks
-
Limping or soreness after activity
-
Behavioral changes (e.g., irritability, hiding)
In some cases, too much exercise—or the wrong type—can cause injury or stress. That’s why we encourage regular wellness exams at our Southeast Denver animal hospital to evaluate your pup’s mobility, joint health, and energy levels.
Frequently Asked Questions About Dog Exercise
How often should I walk my dog?
Ideally, at least once a day, with a goal of 30–60 minutes depending on his breed, age, and health.
Are short walks enough for high-energy dogs?
Not really. High-energy breeds need a combination of walks, off-leash time, and mentally stimulating activities like fetch, training, or scent work.
Can I over-exercise my dog?
Yes. Especially in puppies and seniors, too much activity can lead to soreness or injury. Always monitor your pup’s stamina and adjust as needed.
Is dog park play considered exercise?
Yes, if your dog is actively running and playing. But not all dogs benefit from dog parks—some may become overstimulated or anxious.
My dog doesn’t like walks. What can I do?
Try shorter outings with lots of sniffing, or mix in games like “find it” with treats. Some dogs prefer structured backyard play or indoor games.
Visit Aspen Commons Animal Hospital in Southeast Denver for a Personalized Dog Fitness Plan
At Aspen Commons Animal Hospital in Southeast Denver, CO, we’re here to help your furry bestie thrive. Whether you’re wondering how much exercise dogs need or looking for new exercise tips for dogs, our vets can tailor a wellness and fitness routine that suits your pup’s age, breed, and lifestyle.
Call us today to book a checkup—we’ll make sure your four-legged friend is fit, happy, and ready to wag through every walk!
This blog is for informational purposes only. Please consult your veterinarian for guidance on your dog’s specific health and exercise needs.
