How long do you have to walk your dog?
A good walk is not only measured in minutes. Discover how to offer your dog adapted, stimulating and regular walks to help him be more calm, balanced and happy on a daily basis.
Richard Costaglioli
2/1/20262 min read
This is THE question that comes up very often when you live with a dog, especially in urban areas such as Brussels.
At Buddy Doggy, after hundreds of walks with dogs of all profiles, we see that the answer does not depend only on the time spent outside, but above all on the quality and regularity of the walks.
What the official recommendations in Belgium say
In Belgium, animal welfare is governed by clear recommendations.
The competent organisations remind that a dog must benefit from daily walks adapted to its physical and mental needs, and cannot be left without activity for long periods of time at home.
The recommendations issued by Brussels Environment and the Brussels Council for Animal Welfare emphasise several points:
The dog must be able to move freely during his walks (on or off leash)
Walks must be regular
The activity must be adapted to the age, physical condition and temperament of the dog
In practice, this usually corresponds to 1h30 /2h of activity per day, divided into several outings.
Why walking your dog is not just about walking
Many owners think they are doing well by taking their dog out "quickly". However, a walk is not only for exercise.
Mental stimulation
Sniffing, exploring an environment, observing other dogs or humans is essential. Mental stimulation helps reduce:
Stress
The agitation
Destructive behaviours
This is a point regularly highlighted by veterinarians and canine behaviour specialists.
Physical health
Walks also contribute to:
Maintain a stable weight
Preserve the joints
Improve digestion
Promote better sleep
What we observe at Buddy Doggy
On the field, we often see dogs that go out every day... but still remain stressed or excited.
The causes are common:
Routes always the same
Pace imposed too fast
Little time left for the dog to explore
Conversely, dogs that benefit from more qualitative walks, even sometimes shorter, quickly show:
A calmer behaviour
Better listening
A decrease in tension on a leash
This confirms what animal welfare professionals explain: the quality of the walk is as important as its duration.
How long is the walk according to the age of the dog?
Puppies
Puppies have specific needs. Their bodies are developing and the walks must be adapted.
Professionals recommend short but frequent walks, especially promoting discovery and socialisation.
Adult dogs
For a healthy adult dog, 1.5 to 2 hours of daily activity is a consistent basis, spread over the day. This may include:
A longer walk
Several shorter but challenging walks
Senior dogs
Older dogs often need quieter walks. It is best to reduce the duration of each walk, while maintaining good regularity.
Can my dog stay alone all day?
According to Belgian animal welfare recommendations, a dog should not stay alone for more than 6 to 8 consecutive hours on a regular basis, without going out or interacting.
A prolonged absence without an intermediate walk can favour:
Anxiety
Frustration
Behavioural disorders
In this context, a walk during the day is not a comfort, but a response adapted to the basic needs of the dog.
Walking your dog in town: a Belgian reality
In Belgium, and particularly in Brussels, urban walks require particular attention:
Management of noise-related stress
Compliance with leash rules
Choice of quieter or greener routes
Even in urban areas, it is possible to offer enriching walks if they are designed for the dog and not only for the timing of the human.
In summary
Most dogs need 1h30 to 2h of activity per day
Walking is essential for physical and mental health
Regularity and quality matter as much as duration
Each dog has different needs depending on its age and personality
The Buddy Doggy philosophy
At Buddy Doggy, we believe that a good walk is not a constraint, but a pillar of the dog's well-being.
A dog that goes out properly is a more serene, more balanced and happier dog on a daily basis.
Contact us if you want to try your dog's pack ride.
Author: Richard Costaglioli
