Dog Exercise: A Comprehensive Guide for All Ages & Breeds

* All Sniffspot articles are reviewed by certified trainers for quality, please see bottom of article for details *

Daily walks are great, but they're only the beginning of a truly happy and healthy life for your dog. Dog exercise is key for physical fitness, and it does wonders for their mental well-being, too. A good exercise plan can build confidence, boost social skills, and even help manage anxiety. Ready to find the best way to exercise your pup? We'll cover everything from fun games and swimming adventures to helpful tools like a daily exercise calculator for your dog, and even some cool apps for dogs to play with. Let's get moving!

Here’s everything you need to know about exercising your dog. How much exercise does their breed, age, and health status require? How often should you and your pup engage in physical exercise each week — especially high-intensity exercises? What are the benefits of exercise in different forms? And what are some go-to activities if you’re running out of your own ideas?

Remember: “Safety first” when exercising your dog

This should be your mantra when exercising your dog. A few simple steps can go a long way in preventing problems! Make sure:

• Your dog’s collar or harness fits properly
• Their leash is the appropriate length for the environment you’ll be visiting (maybe a long line for a decompression walk at a large park, and a shorter six- or eight-food standard leash on your neighborhood sidewalk with lots of blind corners)
• You have plenty of water and some sort of collapsible or travel bowl if you’ll be going on a longer adventure
• To check the weather ahead of time for extreme heat, cold, or storm warnings (it’s especially important to avoid strenuous exercise in warmer months during the hottest times of the day and to avoid walking on burning asphalt)
• To pay attention to your surroundings

Key Takeaways

• Personalized exercise plans are key: Factor in your dog's breed, age, and health status to create a routine that suits their individual needs. High-energy breeds require more vigorous activity than low-energy breeds, and senior dogs benefit from gentler exercise.
• Mental enrichment counts: Don't underestimate the power of mental exercise. Activities like puzzle toys, training sessions, and sniffing opportunities can tire out your dog just as effectively as physical exercise.
• Safety and gradual progression are essential: Supervise your dog during exercise, provide fresh water, and be mindful of the weather. Introduce new activities gradually to prevent injuries, and consult your vet if you have any concerns about your dog's exercise routine.

Signs of Overexertion in Dogs

It’s crucial to recognize when your dog is pushing too hard. Watch out for excessive panting, a bright red or pale tongue and gums, lagging behind on walks, or an unwillingness to continue. If your dog seems uncomfortable, stop the activity immediately and allow them to rest and cool down. For more tips on exercising with your dog, check out this article by Small Door Veterinary.

Weather Considerations for Dog Exercise

Remember to adjust exercise routines based on the weather. In hot weather, avoid exercising during the hottest parts of the day. Always provide plenty of water, and check the pavement temperature to avoid burns. Consider carrying a portable water dispenser for longer outings. In winter, consider using booties to protect your dog’s paws from snow and ice. You can find more helpful tips in this article on exercising with your dog.

Toy Safety

Always use dog-specific toys and regularly check them for damage to prevent choking hazards or other injuries. Durable toys are key for large, strong breeds, while puzzle toys can offer great enrichment for dogs of all sizes. For more information on dog exercise and enrichment ideas, see the PDSA's guide.

Gradual Introduction of New Activities

Ease your dog into new exercises to prevent injuries. Start with shorter sessions and gradually increase the intensity and duration as your dog’s fitness improves. Finding a safe, enclosed space to practice new activities can help build your dog's confidence. A Sniffspot can be a great option for this. The PDSA offers helpful advice on introducing new exercises safely.

How much physical exercise do dogs need?

Exactly how much exercise per day does your dog really need? While it’s important that every dog has the opportunity to move their body, not all breeds and temperaments have the same physical activity requirements.

Every dog is (wonderfully) unique. That means that the ideal amount of exercise will vary from pup to pup! While there are no hard-and-fast answers, a few factors can help you determine accurately how much exercise your dog needs.

First, consider their breed (or mix of breeds). Then use your pup’s age, physical health status, and your long-term goals to create an exercise gameplan to keep them fit and happy.

We’ve summarized some key points below. You can read more about calculating your dog’s exercise needs in our deep-dive article here: Dog Exercise Calculator!

Specific Exercise Amounts

While most dogs benefit from at least 30 minutes of exercise daily, this is just a starting point. The perfect amount varies significantly based on several factors. High-energy breeds like Border Collies or Australian Shepherds often thrive on much more activity, while lower-energy breeds like French Bulldogs may do well with less intense or shorter sessions. Age plays a big role, too. Puppies need shorter, more frequent bursts of playtime to avoid overexertion, while senior dogs might require gentler activities to accommodate age-related aches and pains. Always consider your dog’s individual health status. A dog with hip dysplasia, for example, will have different exercise needs than a perfectly healthy dog. If you’re unsure, consult your veterinarian for personalized advice. They can help you create a safe and effective exercise plan tailored to your dog’s specific needs.

Daily Exercise Calculator for Your Dog

While there isn’t a one-size-fits-all, magical exercise calculator for dogs, there are some helpful guidelines. Think of your dog’s breed as a good starting point. Working breeds and herding breeds are typically bred for endurance and will likely need more vigorous and frequent exercise. Age is another important factor. Puppies, adult dogs, and senior dogs all have different exercise requirements. Observe your dog’s energy levels and behavior. Are they restless and destructive when they don’t get enough activity? Do they seem tired and reluctant to move after a short walk? These cues can help you gauge whether you’re hitting the sweet spot. And, as always, consulting your veterinarian is a great way to get personalized guidance. They can assess your dog’s overall health and help you determine the right balance of exercise for a happy and healthy pup. You can also find some great dog parks near you to help your dog get the exercise they need.

How does breed affect my dog’s daily exercise needs?

Generally, larger dogs require more exercise than their smaller counterparts — with the exception of a few giant breeds whose bones and joints are actually more sensitive. It’s best to focus on your breed’s original purpose rather than size alone.

High-energy breeds and working dogs require more exercise and enrichment than smaller toy, non-sporting, or low-energy breeds do. Think about the difference between an Australian Cattle Dog and a Shih Tzu, for example. Herding breeds were selectively bred to drive cattle across long distances and protect their family’s property — accordingly, they have seemingly endless energy levels that a typical neighborhood walk might not satisfy. On the other hand, Shih Tzus were developed to be largely sedentary companions. (Not to say they’re couch potatoes don’t still need exercise to stay healthy — the lap dogs just won’t be an ideal, miles-and-hours-a-day hiking companion.)

High-Energy Breeds

Breeds like Border Collies and Huskies were bred for jobs requiring stamina and endurance. Border Collies, for instance, are incredible herding dogs capable of running long distances and working independently. Similarly, Siberian Huskies were originally bred to pull sleds across snowy terrain. Their energy levels are naturally high. These breeds thrive on vigorous exercise and mental stimulation. Think long hikes, challenging games of fetch, or even dog sports like agility or flyball. Without enough physical activity, these high-energy dogs can become bored, frustrated, and even destructive. Finding ways to engage their minds and bodies is key for a happy and well-adjusted pup. A visit to a Sniffspot can be a great way to let these dogs run and play in a safe, controlled environment.

Low-Energy Breeds

On the other end of the spectrum, breeds like Bulldogs and Frenchies may be content with shorter walks and less intense play. While still needing regular exercise to stay healthy, these breeds weren't bred for high-intensity activities. Their physical build often reflects this, with some breeds having shorter legs or a stockier frame. This doesn't mean they should live a sedentary lifestyle—regular walks are still important for their physical and mental well-being. However, their exercise needs are generally lower than those of working or herding breeds. A leisurely stroll around the neighborhood, a gentle game of tug-of-war, or even just exploring a new, securely-fenced Sniffspot can provide enough physical and mental stimulation. Remember that every dog is an individual, and even within low-energy breeds, exercise needs can vary. Pay attention to your dog's cues and adjust their activity level accordingly. Overdoing it with a low-energy breed can lead to exhaustion and potential health problems, so it's always better to err on the side of caution.

How much exercise does my puppy need?

If you’re a puppy parent, you’re probably more than a little familiar with the “zoomies.” That’s the term commonly used to explain the phenomena that occurs when a puppy has way more energy than their body can contain — resulting in sudden bursts of activity. Symptoms include rapid running around the room, wiggles, and general silliness. The zoomies don’t last long but can happen at any time of the day or night (and are guaranteed to occur just as you’re drifting off to sleep). 

Puppies grow out of zoomies, but until they do, they need plenty of short walks or other forms of exercise to use some of their energy. This is a good time to teach them leash skills on walks (these will exercise their mind, too). 

While you may be tempted to take your adorable bundle of fur to the dog park or on a long walk, we recommend avoiding these kinds of outings for a couple of reasons. Young puppies need to use their bodies to develop muscle strength and coordination (not to mention get important socialization to the world around them) — but you should err on the side of caution with any intense or high impact activities before their growth plates close. This can prevent long-term joint damage and reduce the risk of problems like hip dysplasia.

Alternatives to long walks can include:

• Training in new environments
• Taking breaks every few minutes on a longer route to rest (and practice relaxing out in the busy world)
• Engaged playtime like tug-of-war
• Enrichment activities
• And more!

Shorter, More Frequent Exercise Sessions

Puppies need shorter, more frequent exercise sessions to avoid overexertion. “Zoomies” are a normal burst of energy for puppies—and while adorable, they’re a good reminder that your little one has lots of energy to burn. Instead of one long walk, opt for several short play or training sessions throughout the day. This approach helps build their stamina and prevents strain on their developing joints. For more information on puppy exercise, check out Sniffspot’s guide on calculating your dog's exercise needs.

Indoor Exercises for Puppies

Indoor activities are a great way to provide mental and physical stimulation for puppies, especially when the weather isn’t cooperating. Playing with puzzle toys, practicing basic commands like sit and stay, or even a quick game of fetch in a hallway can be enriching. These activities not only burn energy but also strengthen your bond and reinforce good behavior. If you’re looking for more space to play, Sniffspot offers indoor dog parks that provide a safe and fun environment for your puppy to socialize and play.

How much exercise does my adult dog need? 

Your dog will need the most exercise per day when they’re between about two and eight years old. This is the “prime” of their adult life! Your dog is fully developed and still young enough to maintain their stamina.

How much exercise does my senior dog need?

Your senior dog may not need as much physical exercise as they once did. That said, they still need enough activity to stay strong and agile! Moderate exercise is also essential for older dogs’ weight management to keep obesity at bay. (Being overweight is one of the leading causes of joint problems and chronic pain in our pets.)

Low-Impact Exercises for Senior Dogs

Senior dogs often benefit from less intense exercise than their younger counterparts. As dogs age, their exercise needs change, and it's important to adapt their activity levels to maintain their comfort and well-being. While they may not bound around with the same youthful exuberance, regular, moderate exercise is still crucial for their physical and mental health. Maintaining a healthy weight is especially important for senior dogs, as obesity can exacerbate joint problems and chronic pain, common in older pets.

Shorter, more frequent walks are a great way to keep them active without overexerting their joints. Think gentle strolls around the block or exploring a new Sniffspot for a change of scenery. For water-loving seniors, swimming is a fantastic low-impact exercise, especially beneficial for those with arthritis. The buoyancy of water supports their joints, allowing them to move freely and build strength without undue stress. If your senior isn't a confident swimmer, a life vest can provide added security. Keep swim sessions relatively short, around 10-15 minutes, and always offer fresh water.

Even a kiddie pool in the backyard can provide a refreshing and stimulating activity on a warm day. Before starting any new exercise routine with your senior dog, consult with your veterinarian. They can assess your dog's individual health needs and recommend a safe and effective exercise plan. A personalized approach is vital, considering factors like breed, pre-existing health conditions, and individual preferences. With a little adjustment and consideration, you can help your senior dog enjoy their golden years to the fullest, staying active, happy, and healthy.

How do my dog’s health and our goals affect their exercise needs?

You should also consider any health conditions — like heart disease, hip dysplasia, arthritis, or other issues — when determining how much exercise your dog needs. If your dog has any medical concerns, make sure to work directly with your veterinarian to create a safe exercise plan. Building strength is important! But it’s important not to overdo it.

Beyond a baseline level of activity to keep your pup healthy, extra physical conditioning is up to you. Every dog parent gets to decide what lifestyle — and therefore, what exercise program — works best for them! There is no set guideline of exact minutes per day or precise amounts of exercise that work for all dogs in all situations.

For example, you might put more effort into your dog’s body conditioning if you:

• Are an avid hiker and want to prepare your pup to tackle summits with you
• Hunt with your dog
• Participate in dog sports like agility or dock diving

Exercise for Dogs with Joint Issues

Swimming is a fantastic low-impact exercise for dogs with joint problems, especially for older dogs or those dealing with arthritis. The buoyancy of water supports their weight, reducing stress on their joints while still allowing them to build strength and improve their range of motion. Think of it as a gentle, full-body workout that's easy on those achy joints. If your dog isn't a confident swimmer, using a life vest can provide extra support and security, particularly for heavier breeds or dogs with longer bodies. Keep swim sessions relatively short, around 10–15 minutes, and always have fresh water available.

Even if your dog isn't a fan of swimming, there are other ways to keep them active without exacerbating joint pain. Senior dogs often benefit from less intense exercise, such as shorter walks and gentle play. Remember, moderate exercise is crucial for older dogs to manage their weight and prevent obesity, a leading contributor to joint problems and chronic pain. This Sniffspot article offers more information on exercising senior dogs. It's also important to consider any existing health conditions, like hip dysplasia or arthritis, when planning your dog's exercise routine. This article provides further guidance on how health conditions can influence exercise requirements.

How often should I exercise my dog?

Your dog’s individual exercise needs will depend on their breed, age, health, and your overall goals like we talked about above. No matter how much distance you plan to cover with them, though, it’s important to keep a few things in mind when it comes to exercise frequency.

Maintain a steady average amount of physical activity — increase slowly

You don’t need to do exactly the same thing with your dog every day. (In fact, we wouldn’t recommend that since it would get boring for both you and your pup.) But you should be conscious about keeping up a somewhat regular routine with your exercise sessions.

What we mean by that: It’s absolutely okay if you usually exercise more on the weekend, or if you have a few lazy rainy days here and there — just ensure your dog still gets some form of activity or at least a few minutes of exercise, like some basic cardio, on most weekdays or “off” days too.

The idea is to keep things consistent so your pup’s body can stay in top shape. Too much quick variation or lack of exercise (like being sedentary Monday through Friday and then hiking a dozen miles on Saturday) can increase the chance for injury. Just like in us humans!

Incorporate rest days

If you ask your dog to join you on a big adventure, remember that their muscles and joints can get sore just like yours. Don’t be afraid to take a rest day or two to let everyone recover before getting back out there for another strenuous day of activity. Short neighborhood walks, decompression “sniffaris,” or extra indoor mental enrichment are great mild to moderate exercise options on these occasions.

How can I keep track of my dog’s daily exercise requirements?

If you live in a household with other people, we recommend creating a short exercise log to keep everyone on the same page about your dog’s care. This will also help you catch any potential problems (like muscle soreness) right away!

Are there fitness trackers for dogs? 

There are also a range of fitness trackers out there for dogs.

One example, Whistle, makes a monitoring device that works for your pet much like a FitBit or a Garmin fitness tracker would work for you. The small device attaches to your dog’s collar and monitors their daily activity, including how much they rested in one spot and how many minutes of exercise they engaged in. You can set activity goals based on breed, age, and health (the key factors we mentioned above).

Apps for Dogs to Play

Several apps can help track your dog’s activity levels and suggest appropriate exercises. Some popular options, many of which integrate with fitness trackers like Whistle, help you monitor your dog’s activity, set goals, and even find new places to walk with your pup. Remember, while these apps can be helpful tools, it's always best to consult your veterinarian for personalized advice tailored to your dog's specific needs.

Here are a few apps to check out:

• Wooftrax guides you through building a training and exercise plan for your dog. It also donates to shelters for every mile you walk!
• Puppr offers a structured approach to training with built-in clicker training lessons and progress tracking.
• Dogo includes a range of games and tricks to teach your dog, plus a social community where you can connect with other dog owners.

Finding the right balance of physical and mental exercise for your dog is key to their overall well-being. By understanding their breed, age, and health needs, and using helpful tools like fitness trackers and apps, you can ensure your furry friend gets the appropriate amount of activity to stay happy and healthy. For safe and enriching places for your dog to play and exercise, check out the Sniffspot listings to discover dog parks, trails, and other dog-friendly locations near you.

Don’t forget about mental exercise, too!

We’ve talked a lot about physical exercise here, but this article wouldn’t be complete without making sure to address a common myth, too. Have you ever heard that a “tired dog is a good dog?”

While traditional exercise absolutely is important to keep our pets healthy, too much physical movement without appropriate mental stimulation can actually cause problems and even more undesirable behaviors. We might create companions whose bodies never feel tired — and who have no idea how to slow down their brains! (Canines tend to develop cardio and muscle strength faster than humans do, so it’s easy to create a dog who can outlast us on the trails.)

Mental enrichment can be the perfect solution here. Paired with appropriate physical fulfillment, things like food puzzles, snuffle mats, and thoughtful training sessions can keep your dog entertained without running either of you to the ground.

An added bonus: Your pup can play cognitive games even if they’re entering their senior years or recovering from an injury. In fact, mental exercise is possible in just about any situation: during inclement weather, at your own home or a friend’s house, out in a public park, if you’re ever stuck in a small space, and more. The opportunities are endless.

Looking for some activities to get your dog’s brain going? We’ve put together some of our favorite mental exercises in this article. You can also read more about canine enrichment overall in our comprehensive guide!

Importance of Mental Exercise

Mental stimulation is crucial for a dog’s overall well-being. We’ve talked a lot about physical exercise in this article, but it’s important to remember that physical activity isn’t the only thing that tires a dog out (or keeps them happy and healthy). Have you ever heard the saying “A tired dog is a good dog?” While that can be true, focusing only on physical exercise can actually backfire and create more problems. Why? Because dogs build cardio and muscle strength faster than we do—meaning it’s easy to accidentally create a pup who can physically outlast us on a hike, but who doesn’t know how to settle down when they’re mentally exhausted.

Think of it this way: Would you be happy if all you did all day, every day, was run on a treadmill? Probably not! You’d want some variety, some mental engagement, and some opportunities to use your brain. Our dogs are the same way. As Sniffspot explains, “While traditional exercise absolutely is important to keep our pets healthy, too much physical movement without appropriate mental stimulation can actually cause problems and even more undesirable behaviors. We might create companions whose bodies never feel tired — and who have no idea how to slow down their brains!”

Activities like training, puzzle feeders, interactive games, and even just letting your dog sniff and explore on a walk can prevent boredom, reduce anxiety, and even minimize the risk of destructive behaviors. Mental enrichment, paired with appropriate physical fulfillment, can keep your dog entertained and engaged without overexerting either of you. Sniffspot describes some helpful options: “things like food puzzles, snuffle mats, and thoughtful training sessions can keep your dog entertained without running either of you to the ground.”

Another great thing about mental exercise? It’s accessible to almost every dog. “An added bonus,” Sniffspot notes, “Your pup can play cognitive games even if they’re entering their senior years or recovering from an injury.” Mental exercise is possible in just about any situation: during inclement weather, at your own home or a friend’s house, out in a public park, or even if you’re ever stuck in a small space like a hotel room. Explore the endless opportunities for mental enrichment.

Inspiration: 10 fun ways to exercise your dog 

There’s bound to be a few ideas on the list below that you and your dog will enjoy doing together.  Our world offers such a variety of exercise opportunities for us and our pets!

Walk, jog, or run around the neighborhood 

Grab the leash and take your dog for a stroll or a run to explore the world just outside your front door. Not only are these outings a great opportunity to meet neighbors, it’s also an easy way for your dog to get in their daily steps. Change it up on the regular by choosing to go a different direction or walk down different blocks. 

Don’t set your sights on hitting a precise hour of exercise or other time limit — just pay attention to your pup’s body language and go from there. If they still have plenty of energy when they’re done sniffing? You can offer them some enrichment or play a favorite game at home!

Walking

Walking is a fantastic low-impact exercise suitable for nearly every dog—from spry young puppies to senior citizens. It's a great way to burn energy and provide mental stimulation, especially if you vary your routes and allow your dog ample opportunities to sniff and explore new scents. Even short, 10-minute walks can make a big difference in your dog's overall well-being.

Running/Jogging

Running or jogging with your dog can be a fun way to bond and get exercise, but it's important to consider your dog's individual needs. This higher-impact activity is best suited for active, adult dogs. Avoid running with puppies (whose growth plates haven't closed yet), overweight dogs, dogs with joint problems, or brachycephalic (flat-faced) breeds. If you're unsure whether running is appropriate for your dog, consult with your veterinarian. If you do run with your dog, start slowly and gradually increase the intensity and duration of your runs. Let your dog set the pace, and always watch for signs of tiredness, like excessive panting or lagging behind. Small Door Veterinary offers helpful tips on running with your dog.

Hit the trails

Find a dog-friendly hiking trail near you and spend some time taking in the great outdoors with your dog.

Look for trails that are paved or routes that aren’t too steep in places to keep things safe for you and your dog, especially if yours is still mastering leash skills. Remember to bring water (for both you and your pup) and rest when needed.

Hiking with Your Dog

Hiking is a fun way to explore new places with your dog and provides a fantastic cardio workout for both of you! Just like us, dogs benefit from regular exercise to maintain a healthy weight and reduce the risk of health issues like diabetes and joint problems. Before you hit the trails, make sure your dog is physically up to the challenge and properly prepared. Start with shorter, easier hikes and gradually increase the difficulty and distance as your dog's fitness improves. You can find some great dog-friendly trails and dog parks right here on Sniffspot!

Look for trails that are paved or routes that aren’t too steep, especially if your dog is still learning excellent leash skills. Always bring plenty of water for both of you and a collapsible bowl for your pup. And remember to check the weather before you head out to avoid extreme heat, cold, or storms. It's always a good idea to consult your veterinarian, especially if you're unsure about the appropriate amount of exercise for your dog's age and breed. Pay close attention to your dog's body language during the hike, and stop for rest breaks if they show any signs of fatigue or discomfort. Learning to recognize signs of overexertion is key to keeping your hiking buddy safe and happy.

Swimming for the water puppies

Got a water-loving dog? If so, head for a nearby creek or lake for a dip. Not only is swimming a great way for your dog to cool down on a hot summer day, it’s also an excellent form of low-impact exercise!

We recommend that dogs wear a properly fitted life jacket when swimming, especially if they’re novices in the water. Be sure to check any local warnings about algae (blue green algae is particularly toxic) or other potentially hazardous wildlife before letting your pup dive in.

Swimming Safety Tips

Use a life vest for dogs who aren't strong swimmers, especially long-bodied or heavier breeds. As we mentioned in our article on 10 Fun Ways to Exercise Your Dog, a properly fitted life jacket is a good idea even for pups who are comfortable in the water, just as an extra precaution. Keep swims short to prevent overexertion, and always supervise your dog closely around water. If you're looking for safe, private places for your dog to swim, check out Sniffspot's listings for dog water parks.

Attend obedience training

Whether you have a puppy or an older dog who needs to brush up their manners, they’re sure to benefit from basic obedience training.

While it may not seem like traditional exercise, obedience training is actually a great moderate workout for your dog. It’s hard work learning new things — don’t be surprised if your dog takes a very long, well-deserved nap afterwards! Plus switching between positions like sit and down can help build your pup’s core strength.

Obedience Training/Trick Training

Whether you have a puppy or an older dog who needs a refresher on manners, they’re sure to benefit from basic obedience training. And if your dog has already mastered basic commands, trick training can add extra challenge and excitement to your routine.

While it may not seem like traditional exercise, obedience training is a great moderate workout for your dog. It’s hard work learning new things—don’t be surprised if your dog takes a very long, well-deserved nap afterward! Plus, switching between positions like sit and down builds core strength. Obedience training offers fantastic mental enrichment, which is just as important as physical exercise. As Sniffspot mentions in its article on mental exercise, activities like training keep your dog entertained without overdoing it on the physical activity. This is especially helpful for puppies, who need plenty of mental and physical stimulation without the strain of long walks, as discussed in Sniffspot's puppy exercise guide.

Sign up for agility training or other dog sport courses

If you’re looking to take your dog’s exercise up a notch (or several), consider signing them up for some agility classes or explore another dog sport like flyball or maybe even skijoring.

Organized dog sports are a fantastic way to join a community of fellow dog lovers, provide mental stimulation, build confidence (on both ends of the leash!), set defined exercise times so you don’t have to do a bunch of other planning each week, and improve your pup’s body awareness.

Agility Training

Agility training is a fun, fast-paced activity for energetic, clever dogs. It's a challenging and engaging way to boost both physical and mental fitness by navigating an obstacle course. Many clubs offer agility classes, which is a fantastic opportunity to socialize your dog and connect with fellow dog lovers. As an alternative, you can set up a simple agility course at home for a more budget-friendly way to enjoy this activity. If you're searching for a safe, private space to practice, consider checking out Sniffspot to find dog-friendly parks and areas near you. Many Sniffspot hosts even provide agility equipment on their properties, making it even easier to get started with this exciting activity.

Host a puppy playdate 

If you have a fenced in yard, why not get friends, family, and neighbors with dogs together for a puppy playdate? You could even start a neighborhood group and take turns hosting playdates in different fenced-in yards to keep things interesting. 

Before your four-legged guests arrive, make sure you have a few extra water bowls on hand and that you haven’t left anything in the yard (like tools or piles of poop, for example) so that the pups can romp around safely.

It’s also imperative to remember that not all dogs enjoy interacting with other canines up close and personal, especially on their own territory. Playdates can be an awesome option for many pets — but they aren’t for everyone, and that’s okay! When in doubt, consult with a professional trainer you trust before inviting anyone your dog hasn’t already met over.

Dog Parks

Dog parks offer a great opportunity for dogs to socialize and get exercise with other dogs, as highlighted by the ASPCA. Finding a safe, enclosed dog park can give your dog a chance to run and play freely. However, remember that supervision is key. Keep a close eye on your dog’s interactions with other dogs and watch for any signs of overexertion or discomfort. Small Door Veterinary emphasizes the importance of supervision during any exercise activity. If your dog seems overwhelmed or uncomfortable, it's perfectly fine to leave and explore other exercise options. The PDSA reminds us that every dog is an individual, so pay attention to what your dog enjoys and tailor their park visits accordingly.

Invest in interactive toys

If your dog wants to stop and smell roses on walks, let them, because the more chances they get to use their nose, the better they’ll feel. Nose work and interactive toys, like those with pockets to hide treats or a flip boards strategy game, provide mental stimulation, and can even help keep them calm and develop confidence. We’ve put together a list of some of our favorite dog enrichment toys in this article!

Pro tip: Have a few interactive puzzles on hand for rainy days when your furry friend can get plenty of brain exercise until the sun comes back out.  

Playing fetch

Playing fetch is a classic for a reason! This simple game provides physical and mental stimulation and strengthens the bond between you and your dog. A quick game of fetch can be a great way to burn off some extra energy in your backyard or at a local park. If you're looking for a place where your dog can really stretch their legs and chase that ball, check out Sniffspot's dog-friendly park listings near you. Many Sniffspot parks even have amenities like water features, which can add an extra element of fun to your fetch game, especially for dogs who love water. You can find dog parks with water features here.

Indoor exercises for dogs

If the weather isn’t cooperating, there are still plenty of ways to keep your dog entertained and exercised indoors. Try a game of hide-and-seek with your dog’s favorite toys or treats. Puzzle toys are another great option for mental stimulation, as are short training sessions to work on new tricks or reinforce known commands. For more information on how much exercise your dog needs based on factors like breed and age, and for additional ideas for indoor activities, check out this article on dog exercise.

Visit dog-friendly shops 

Need to run errands? Before you go, check to see if the places you’re going are pet friendly. If they are, it can be a great moderate exercise and training opportunity to have your dog keep you company while you’re out and about.

Home improvement stores including Lowe’s and Tractor Supply welcome leashed dogs. Many other spots like Nordstrom, Home Goods, and even Apple Stores do too! Always call ahead or check your location’s rules online to confirm before arriving with your pup — and make sure your dog is ready for a distracting environment (shopping on a busy Saturday morning probably isn’t the best idea if your pup is still working on leash skills or overexcitement around strangers).

Take a day trip 

Does your dog love car rides? If so, pick a day to hit the road to visit a nearby town and explore new hiking trails, dog parks, and maybe even a dog-friendly shop or two like mentioned above.

A day away can do wonders for you and your pup, who will get plenty of exercise and mental stimulation taking in all the new sights and smells of a different city. 

Sign up for Sniffspot

Don’t have space for your canine exercise routine? Find a Sniffspot host near you and let your dog have a ball (we also mean that literally) in a new fenced-in yard. You can do things like:

• Set up scavenger hunts in an environment you know is safe
• Play a game of fetch, tug, or hide and seek
• Enjoy a wide variety of other training and brain games
• Practice recall
• And more!

If you make it a regular excursion, you’ll be able to rest a little easier, knowing your dog is getting the exercise they need to stay healthy.

Find Dog-Friendly Parks and Activities with Sniffspot

Finding the perfect spot for your dog to run and play can be tough. That's where Sniffspot comes in. We connect dog owners with safe, private, dog-friendly locations in various cities. Whether you're looking for a place to practice recall, let your dog enjoy a good sniff, or just unwind in a secure environment, Sniffspot offers a variety of options.

Our listings include dog parks, water parks, and hiking trails, providing plenty of opportunities for exercise and exploration. You can even find indoor parks for those days when the weather isn't ideal. With Sniffspot, you can discover new places for your dog to explore and get the exercise they need, all while knowing they're in a safe environment.

Trainers that reviewed this article

There is so much misinformation out there, we want to make sure we only provide the highest quality information to our community. We have all of our articles reviewed by qualified, positive-only trainers. The trainers that review our content are reviewed by other trainers to ensure that we have the best quality filters on our content. 

These are the trainers that reviewed this article:

Erica Marshall CPDT-ka, CDBC,
Owner/Trainer of Wicked Good Dog Training in Christiana TN
Author of “New Puppy, Now What?”
www.wickedgooddogtraining.com

Hallie Wells
Owner-Lumos Dog Training, Atlanta, GA
Certified Professional Professional Dog Trainer (CPDT-KA)
Fear Free Certified Professional (FFCP)
Applied Animal Behavior Analysts (UW-AABA)

Related Articles

• Best Ways to Exercise Your Dog at Home and Out in Public
• Dog Exercise Calculator: How Much Exercise Your Dog Needs
• Comprehensive Guide to Enrichment Activities for Dogs
• Dog Parent's Comprehensive Guide to Dog Exercise
• How to Walk Your Puppy On Leash | Tips and Tricks

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Frequently Asked Questions

My dog pulls on the leash during walks. How can I make our walks more enjoyable? Loose-leash walking takes time and patience. Start by rewarding your dog for staying near you and not pulling. If your dog starts to pull, stop walking immediately. Once the leash is slack again, reward your dog and continue the walk. Consistent training and positive reinforcement will eventually teach your dog to walk politely on leash. You can also try using a front-clip harness or a head halter for additional control.

My senior dog has arthritis. What are some good low-impact exercises for them? Swimming is a great option, as the water supports their joints. Short, gentle walks on soft surfaces like grass are also good. Even simple games like fetch in the house can provide some exercise. Always consult your vet before starting a new exercise program with a senior dog.

How can I tell if my dog is getting too much exercise? Watch for signs of overexertion like excessive panting, a bright red or pale tongue and gums, lagging behind, or refusing to continue the activity. If you see any of these signs, stop immediately and let your dog rest and cool down.

What are some good mental exercises for my dog? Puzzle toys, hide-and-seek games, and training sessions are all great ways to mentally stimulate your dog. Even scattering their food around the yard or hiding treats for them to find can provide mental enrichment.

I don't have a fenced yard. Where can I safely let my dog run off-leash? Sniffspot is a great resource for finding secure, private dog parks near you. Many Sniffspot locations offer amenities like agility equipment and water features, providing a variety of enriching experiences for your dog. You can also check for local fully fenced dog parks.