Puppy Fitness and You: How to Exercise Your Dog

Spring has arrived in the Inland Northwest, and it’s the perfect time to get outside with your dog! Regular exercise is one of the best things you can do for your pup’s health and happiness. But did you know that different dog breeds and sizes have different activity needs? In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through how to exercise your dog based on size, breed, and fitness level–plus, we’ll highlight some of the best toys, fetch balls, and gear available right here at Pawpular companions.

Why Exercise Is Essential for Dogs

Whether your dog is a couch potato or a bundle of energy, exercise plays a crucial role in their wellbeing. Here are just a few reasons why:

• Maintains a Healthy Weight: Regular activity helps dogs stay in shape and avoid obesity-related issues.

  
  

• Supports Joint and Muscle Health: Movement helps keep bones and joints strong, especially in senior dogs or dogs with preexisting conditions.

  
  

• Provides Mental Stimulation: Exercise isn’t just physical. It helps prevent boredom and unwanted, destructive behaviors.

  
  

• Improves Behavior: It’s like I always say: “The best puppy is a tired puppy.” A well-exercised dog is calmer, more obedient, and less anxious than one that sits around all day.

  
  

Now that you know why exercise matters, let’s dive into what kind of activity your pup needs.

How to Exercise Your Dog by Size: Small, Medium, & Large Breeds

Small Dogs (under 20 lbs):

Small dogs like Chihuahuas, Shih Tzus, and Yorkies may not need long hikes, but they still benefit from daily activity.

Recommended Activities:

• Short walks (10-20 minutes twice a day)

• Indoor fetch and tug-of-war

• Puzzle toys and obstacle courses

  
  

Fitness Tips:

• Keep an eye on the weather! Small dogs are more sensitive to heat and cold.

• Use a harness instead of a collar for safer walks.

  
  

Try This: Stop by Pawpular Companions for the Mini Chuckit! Ball, perfect for small jaws and energetic toss-and-chase sessions indoors or outside.

Medium Dogs (20-60 lbs)

Breeds like Cocker Spaniels, Bulldogs, and most Doodles fall into this category. They need more variety to stay engaged.

Recommended Activities:

• Brisk walks or jogs (30-60 minutes daily)

• Agility training and obstacle courses

• Park playtime with off-leash fetch

  
  

Fitness Tips:

• Mix up your routes to keep your dog mentally stimulated.

• Watch for signs of fatigue if your dog is just starting an exercise routine.

  
  

Try This: The Treat Dispensing KONGs or an interactive Puzzle Game from Pawpular companions is a great way to work both brain and body.

Large Breeds (over 60 lbs)

Big breeds like Labs, German Shepherds, and Golden Retrievers thrive with longer workouts.

Recommended Activities:

• Hiking trails and nature walks

• Swimming (a great low-impact option that older dogs LOVE)

• Structured runs or weighted walks

  
  

Fitness Tips:

• Don’t overdo it on hard surfaces (especially in summer); opt for trails or grass.

• Be cautious with large-breed puppies. Too much exercise can impact bone development.

  
  

Try This: Check out our Heavy-Duty Rope Tug Toys or KONG Extreme Chew Toys for durable play options built for big jaws.

Breed-Specific Exercise Needs

Every dog is unique, but breed tendencies can offer a helpful starting point for designing your dog’s workout routine.

Retrievers (Labs, Goldens): Love fetch, swimming, and anything interactive. Perfect candidates for ball launchers and water toys.

Herding Breeds (Aussies, Border Collies): High-energy dogs that need mental and physical work. Try agility courses or Frisbee games.

Flat-Faced Breeds (Frenchies, Pugs): Prone to overheating and breathing problems, so keep workouts short and avoid mid-day heat. Opt for short indoor sessions and early morning walks.

Hounds (Beagles, Bassets): Follow their noses. Keep them on a leash and add tracking or scent-based games to their routine.

Toy Breeds (Pomeranians, Papillons): Quick bursts of energy. Great candidates for short fetch games and tug toys.

Setting Fitness Goals for Your Dog

Want to build a fitness plan for your dog? Start by asking yourself…

• Is my dog currently active or a couch potato?

  
  

• Is my dog at a healthy weight?

  
  

• Does my dog have any health issues (like arthritis or hip dysplasia)?

  
  

Use this simple weekly goal guide as a starting point:

• Beginner Dogs: 15-20 minutes of activity twice a day.

  
  

• Active Dogs: 30-45 minutes of varied play and walking daily.

  
  

• High-Energy Dogs: 60+ minutes of vigorous exercise (agility, fetch, hiking).

  
  

Track progress with a printable fitness log or planner. Not sure where to start? Ask our in-store Paw Companions for help customizing a plan!

Shop Local: Our Favorite Toys & Exercise Gear

At Pawpular Companions, we stock only the best for your furry best friend. Some of our most popular exercise products include:

• Chuckit! Launchers and Balls (small and large sizes)

• Jolly Balls for Power Chewers

• Durable Rope Toys for tug-of-war

• Flirt Poles for fun indoor/outdoor chase games

• And of course, plenty of Tasty and Nutritious Training Treats to add a reward system to play time.

  
  

Everything available at Pawpular Companions has been handpicked by our team to match a variety of breeds, sizes, and play styles. Come on in, and let us help you find your dog’s new favorite toy!

Final Thoughts

Exercising your dog regularly helps ensure they live a long, healthy, and happy life. Whether you’re raising a sprightly puppy or caring for a mellow senior, there are fun and effective ways to stay active together.

This spring, get outside, soak up the sunshine, and make movement part of your everyday routine. And don’t forget–we’re here to help!

Shop local at Pawpular Companions in Liberty Lake, WA, for expert advice, top-quality toys, and everything you need to keep your pup thriving. Your dog will thank you with every lick and tail wag!