Which Dog Breeds Need More Exercise?

Many dogs need regular exercise, but which dog breeds need more exercise? In this article, we’ll take a look at Pugs, Salukis, Labrador Retrievers, and Chihuahuas.

Dogs need exercise just as much as humans do. In fact, not getting enough exercise is one of the main reasons dogs become overweight and develop health problems.

Dogs who get regular exercise are typically healthier and have more energy. They’re also less likely to become restless and destructive when confined indoors.

Exercise can take many different forms, depending on your dog’s age, breed and personality. A young dog might enjoy playing fetch or going for a long walk, while an older dog might prefer a shorter walk or some gentle yoga poses.

No matter what type of exercise you choose, be sure to keep it interesting and challenging for your dog.

Exercise is important for dogs for a number of reasons:

1) It helps them stay physically healthy and fit. Just like people, dogs need regular exercise to stay in good shape.

2) Exercise helps them burn off nervous energy and stress. This can help reduce the possibility of aggression.

3) It helps dogs feel more mentally sharp and alert when they re out walking or playing.

4) Regular exercise also helps dogs develop healthier social relationships with people and other animals.

Let’s look at some dog breeds that usually need more exercise.

Salukis – Which Dog Breeds Need More Exercise

Like most dogs, Salukis need regular exercise and mental stimulation to stay happy and healthy.

While these dogs are fairly low-energy indoors, they’re full of bottomless energy when they’re out in the field.

They’ll “sing” when something’s wrong or when a family member is away, and some can learn to sing on cue. They can be great running partners and are also affectionate towards pack members.

Although they’re free of serious genetic diseases, Salukis can develop heart problems, including valve disease, arrhythmia, and enlarged hearts.

They’re also susceptible to certain cancers, including hemangiosarcoma and lymphoma, which can be prevented by early spaying.

Vigorous exercise after a meal can cause gastric torsion, which can be life-threatening. Regular exercise is important for Salukis to maintain a healthy weight and stay active.

While Salukis don’t respond well to “corrections” when training, they need positive reinforcement for success. Agility training is an excellent activity for Salukis because they enjoy the constant praise and positive reinforcement.

You can choose from a variety of agility courses, including the world-famous Saluki National. These competitions are held every year at the Saluki National.

A typical agility course can include up to 15 obstacles, including single and triple jumps, weave poles, high catwalks, and a teeter-totter.

Chihuahuas – Which Dog Breeds Need More Exercise

While Chihuahuas may be small dogs, they still require 30 minutes to an hour of daily exercise. They need more exercise than large dogs because they get tired faster and need more time to recover.

However, physical exercise should include mental stimulation, too. Otherwise, the activity may become boring for your chihuahua.

For optimal health, Chihuahuas need exercise, but they also need to be warm. Chihuahuas get cold faster than larger dogs, so you should dress them up appropriately in colder weather and keep them inside under a blanket during cold weather.

Regular brushing can minimize the amount of hair your chihuahua sheds. While they can tolerate short-haired clothing, they may need a quick brushing when they are indoors.

As a small dog, Chihuahuas need exercise in order to stay fit and healthy. While they may not need a large amount of physical activity, Chihuahuas need constant playtime.

The amount of exercise your chihuahua needs each day will depend on its breed and lifestyle.

Regular daily walks or short-duration playtime can help relieve boredom, keep your dog healthy, and provide an extra dose of entertainment for your Chihuahua.

Pugs – Which Dog Breeds Need More Exercise

Pugs need regular exercise to stay healthy and happy. You can provide regular playtime for your dog by playing fetch. Pugs will love a game of fetch and need plenty of attention.

A morning walk can last for 15 to 30 minutes and includes bathroom breaks. You don’t have to go as far as jogging – just walk your pug for a short while and give it a pat on the head for a good morning.

Walking your Pug daily for 30 minutes is best. A longer walk on a weekend will strain its respiratory system. Take Pugs for walks twice a day, preferably at the same time.

Try varying the length of your walks. Observe their behavior to find out when they’re tired. If they’re panting heavily and tumbling along, it’s time for a break. Try not to overdo it!

Labrador Retrievers – Which Dog Breeds Need More Exercise

It may seem obvious that Labrador Retrievers need to get a lot of exercise. However, they can actually suffer from several health problems if they don’t get enough exercise.

For instance, if you don’t take them for walks often enough, your dog may suffer from bloating or digestive problems. Also, make sure to keep an eye on the weather because Labs are prone to overheating.

The Labrador Retriever was bred to be a highly active working dog. Their original purpose was to track and retrieve game for hunters. Their natural high-energy levels make them perfect for this job.

But even if you’re not looking to train them to do anything, exercise is important for them. Even if they don’t show it, your Lab will benefit from a daily walk, run, or swim session.

As a highly active breed, Labrador Retrievers need at least half an hour of daily exercise. This exercise can be as simple as a 30 minute walk, but you can vary it to accommodate your pup’s needs.

While a Labrador is relatively tolerant of being left alone for short periods, they will need at least an hour of exercise a day. They thrive best in grassy fields and open fields.

Havanese – Which Dog Breeds Need More Exercise

In the early 1800s, the Havanese was the most popular dog in upper-class Cuban households. The revolutionary government there caused a mass exodus of the bourgeoisie and many of the dogs were left behind.

The original breed only had eleven dogs in Cuba. As a result, Havanese in America are descendants of the dogs that were brought to the United States by the aristocracy.

While Havanese are surprisingly suited to hot weather, they don’t do well in cooler weather. Regardless, you should still take your Havanese outside for exercise each day.

Ideally, your Havanese should have a fenced yard to play in, and he will enjoy a 30 minute walk or playtime in the yard.

However, if you don’t live in an area with moderate temperatures, you may want to consider purchasing a crate for your Havanese.

If you can’t take your Havanese to a park, you’ll want to keep an eye on his vision. Although most Havanese dogs do not have a vision problem, they can still develop retinal degeneration if not treated.

Fortunately, most of these defects aren’t life-threatening but they can impact your pet’s quality of life. Regular exercise for Havanese can help prevent a variety of eye problems, and it can even prevent a serious illness like progressive retinal atrophy.

German Shepherds – Which Dog Breeds Need More Exercise

The daily routine for German Shepherds varies between puppies and grown-ups, but your dog will need at least an hour of vigorous exercise every day.

German Shepherds are not couch potatoes and will benefit from a variety of exercises, from walks in the park to agility classes.

As a puppy, your dog should spend no more than five minutes in a brisk jog per day. Walking your dog also provides mental stimulation, which is just as important for the dog’s health.

While German Shepherds are renowned for their loyalty and guarding instinct, they do need a little extra attention.

They are not suited to being left alone for long periods of time, so you should introduce them to new people before leaving them home alone.

A German Shepherd’s temperament may not suit a house with children, but it’s ideal for an active household.

But keep in mind that German Shepherds do need a lot of exercise, and if you don’t want to leave them home alone for more than four hours, it’s best to look for a different breed.

Springer Spaniels – Which Dog Breeds Need More Exercise

Like most other breeds, Springer Spaniels benefit from regular exercise. They are known for their outstanding noses and love the company of humans. They are easy to train and respond well to corrections, and their longevity is unmatched.

Despite their adaptability, they are susceptible to a few health issues, such as joint problems and hip dysplasia, but these are relatively minor. The health risks are typically hereditary and preventable with regular exercise.

Since Springers have been bred to spend long, active days hunting game, they can become bored easily and become hyperactive if left alone. This is why they need daily exercise to stay healthy.

You must make sure to take them on walks or for other outdoor activities. This allows them to burn off their energy while letting them explore their surroundings and become physically exhausted.

Whether it’s hiking or playing catch, your Springer will appreciate some time outside in the great outdoors.

Regular exercise is essential for English Springer Spaniels. Dog food that contains a high percentage of protein is ideal. Choose a product that lists meat first in the ingredient list.

Always choose a complete and balanced product, as this will give your dog the nutrition it needs. Aside from that, you should choose dry kibble that will satisfy your dog’s natural chewing urge and help keep its teeth clean.

Alternatively, you can place dry kibble inside a puzzle chew toy to give your dog a great way to get exercise and keep their teeth clean.

 

Read here about other dog breeds that needs lots of activity.