Vet Recommended Puppy Walking Schedule by Age & Breed 2025 🐶✨
In this article
Vet Recommended Puppy Walking Schedule by Age & Breed 2025 🐶✨
By Dr. Duncan Houston BVSc
How far should you walk a 10-week-old puppy? What if you have a golden retriever vs. a dachshund? Overwalking young dogs can harm their joints, while underwalking can create pent-up energy and behavior issues.
I’m Dr. Duncan Houston. This article breaks down how much, how long, and how often to walk your puppy—based on their age, breed, and development stage.
🐾 Why Walking Needs to Be Age Appropriate
- 🦴 Puppies' joints and growth plates are still forming
- ⚖️ Too much forced exercise increases the risk of hip/elbow dysplasia
- 🧠 Walks are for mental stimulation as much as physical activity
Vet Tip: Slow, sniffy, structured walks beat long jogs or “burnoffs” every time—especially in growing puppies.
📅 General Puppy Walking Guidelines by Age
| Age | Walk Duration | Times Per Day |
|---|---|---|
| 8–10 weeks | 5–10 mins | 1–2 (in your yard or carried) |
| 10–12 weeks | 10–15 mins | 1–2 (safe, lowtraffic areas) |
| 12–16 weeks | 15–20 mins | 2 short walks daily |
| 4–6 months | 20–30 mins | 2–3 walks depending on breed |
| 6–12 months | 30–45 mins | 2–3 structured walks with breaks |
🐶 Walking by Breed Type
✔️ HighEnergy Breeds (e.g., Border Collie, Kelpie, Husky)
- 🧠 Walks + mental stimulation (puzzles, scent work) daily
- ⚠️ Avoid high-impact activities (jogging, fetch) under 12–18 months
✔️ Toy & Small Breeds (e.g., Cavoodle, Dachshund, Pug)
- 🐾 Shorter but more frequent walks
- 🧘 Avoid long walks in hot or cold weather
✔️ Large & Giant Breeds (e.g., Golden Retriever, Bernese, Great Dane)
- ⚠️ Focus on controlled leash walks to protect joints
- 🛑 No forced running until after 12–18 months
🚶 What Counts as a “Walk”?
- ✅ Sniffing time + leash manners = walk success
- 🧠 Exploring safely, learning about the world
- 🗣️ Walks are not the only form of enrichment
🧘♂️ Signs of an OverTired Puppy After Walks
- 😤 Zoomies or wild behavior after the walk
- 🥱 Whining but refusing to nap
- 🐕 Reluctance to walk next time
🌧️ Indoor Alternatives on NonWalk Days
- 🧠 Lick mats, snuffle mats, slow feeders
- 🎾 Tug, findit games, mini training sessions
- 🧘 Gentle massage or crate time to reset
🎁Gear for Better Walks
- Explorer Harness – Soft, escape-proof, adjustable for growth
- Bungee Lead – Reduces leash pulling and sudden jolts
- Dual Pocket Dispenser – Carry treats and bags for reinforcement
💬 What Owners Say
“Our cavoodle gets two 15minute walks a day and it’s perfect—no more tantrums at night!” – Rachel & Noodle
👩⚕️ Want a Custom Walking Plan for Your Puppy?
Send your dog’s age, breed, and daily routine to Ask A Vet, and we’ll create a vet-reviewed walking, exercise, and enrichment schedule just for them.
Final Thoughts
Walking isn’t about mileage—it’s about balance. Short, purposeful walks with time to sniff, rest, and learn are far better than overdoing it. Protect your puppy’s joints, and you’ll set them up for a strong, happy future.
