Exercise is essential to a dog’s physical and mental health, but what’s best for one dog may not work for the next. A suitable exercise plan depends on your pet’s breed, size, health status, energy level, and personality. The Cupertino Animal Hospital team shares considerations for crafting an exercise plan and ensuring safe, effective exercise sessions.

1. Dog breed and exercise choice

Although individuals in a given breed can vary significantly, some breeds need more exercise than others. Underexercising a high-energy breed can lead to behavior problems, while overexercising a low-energy breed could lead to injuries. High-energy breeds, such as herding dogs or terriers, thrive on activities that challenge their minds and bodies—try agility, running, or fetch. Lower-energy breeds, such as brachycephalics (e.g., bulldogs, pugs) or hounds, often prefer short walks and gentle play sessions.

2. Dog conformation and physical condition

A dog’s conformation (i.e., body shape) can determine suitable exercise types. For example, dogs with long backs and short legs, like dachshunds, should avoid high-impact activities like jumping or stairs. Brachycephalic dogs can handle only a few minutes of exercise at a time, small dogs can get sufficient exercise indoors, and large dogs may need long walks or outdoor play sessions. Pets with chronic health conditions, such as heart disease or hormonal disorders, require short, gentle exercise sessions.

3. Dog body condition score

A dog’s body condition score (BCS) visually assesses body composition. Dogs with a high BCS are considered overweight and may be at risk for inflammatory conditions, respiratory problems, or joint disease. These pets should start with slow, controlled walks, and intensity should gradually increase. Dogs with a low BCS are underweight, so exercise should focus on building strength and restoring muscle. Consider therapeutic rehabilitation exercises performed under a specialist veterinarian’s guidance.

4. Dog activity impact level

Choosing between high-impact and low-impact exercises depends on your dog’s health and fitness level. High-impact activities, such as running, agility, or frisbee, can be demanding on large or giant breeds, puppies, and pets with existing joint disease—save these activities for young, active, healthy adult dogs. Low-impact activities, such as swimming, walking, or gentle play, are appropriate and safe for most dogs. 

5. Dog injury risk

Dogs with certain conformational features, such as short legs, long backs, twisted limbs, or hip, elbow, or knee joint dysplasias, are more likely to be injured from high-impact activities. Pre-existing injuries or overuse from dog sport training can also predispose a dog to injury. Consult our veterinary team for a complete evaluation before starting a new exercise regimen, especially if your dog has a joint problem history.

6. Dog energy and fatigue

Knowing when your dog is tired and needs a break is crucial to prevent injuries and overexertion. Dogs who are enjoying an activity may not stop voluntarily, and you may need to interrupt the session. If you notice your dog drooling, panting excessively, slowing down, lying down, or losing interest, offer them water and let them cool down. Pay especially close attention if you’re exercising a dog outdoors in hot weather, which can predispose them to developing heatstroke. 

How to customize an exercise plan for your dog

The best exercise plan for your dog will likely require trial and error, but eventually, you’ll settle into a routine that stimulates your pet without being boring or repetitive. Consider the following when building a plan:

  • Consult our veterinary team for insights into your dog’s specific exercise needs and restrictions.
  • Start slow with low-impact, short-duration exercises and gradually increase the intensity as your dog allows.
  • Mix new activities with your dog’s favorites to keep them excited about exercise.
  • Ensure your dog stays hydrated and eats a high-quality, highly digestible diet to fuel their fun.

Determining the best exercise for your dog requires a holistic approach and consideration of multiple factors. You can create an exercise plan that keeps your dog healthy and strengthens your relationship when you understand your dog’s behavior. Then, contact our Cupertino Animal Hospital team for a consultation and help in evaluating your pet’s exercise suitability and to craft a customized exercise plan.