At a recent puppy visit, the owner of a gorgeous 11 week old spaniel asked when she could start running with her puppy.
Puppies need exercise, but it needs to be carefully controlled because doing too much can damage their growing skeletons.
For young puppies, a good rule of thumb for walks is 5 minutes per month of life twice a day. So, at four months, two 15-20 minute walks are fine, plus play and running around at home of course. This formula applies for the first year of the puppy’s life.
This rule should be used as a guide, not an absolute; basically, three-hour hikes are out early on but don’t get too worried about counting the minutes in most breeds.
Breed matters. Some breeds are prone to joint and skeletal problems (this includes many common breeds such as GSDs and Labradors), and all giant breeds, because their size and weight in itself puts a strain on the growing skeleton. For these breeds, stick to no more than the recommended walk times or even slightly less.
Do you want help with your new pesky, destructive, chasing, shark monster puppy?
Keep training,
Carol