Whether your dog needs a daily walk or three depends in large part on his breed. Any of the sporting breeds, such as Golden and Labrador Retrievers, Brittanys and German Shorthaired Pointers, practically demand strenuous walks at least a couple of times a day. Herding breeds such as Australian Shepherds and Border Collies are also high-energy dogs who need lots of opportunities to stretch their legs. Other breeds may be satisfied with shorter or less frequent walks. They include retired racing Greyhounds, giant breeds such as Great Danes or Mastiffs, and dogs such as Bichons Frise, Lhasa Apsos, Chow Chows and Chinese Shar-Pei.
However if you can't walk every day there are other options for activity:
If you have a back garden, play a fast game of fetch. It’s something you and your dog can do together, and it doesn’t require going anywhere.
Play indoors. This is perfect for small breeds such as Cavalier King Charles Spaniels, Chihuahuas, Papillons and Yorkshire Terriers, who will enjoy chasing a ball down the hall as many times as you’ll throw it.
Bring out a puzzle toy. Load it with kibble and let your dog “hunt” for his dinner. This is a great option for any size or breed of dog.
Do a quick training session. A series of sits, downs, stays, comes and spins — or whatever else your dog knows — challenges his brain, gets in some activity and reinforces his good behavior.
Play a hide-and-seek game. Hide some treats throughout the house and let your dog go find them. Or have him go find your kids or spouse. If he does nose work, it’s easy to play at home, both indoors and out.
You’re not failing as a pet owner if you miss a walk — just be sure your dog is getting the attention and exercise he needs on a regular basis.
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Whether your dog needs a daily walk or three depends in large part on his breed. Any of the sporting breeds, such as Golden and Labrador Retrievers, Brittanys and German Shorthaired Pointers, practically demand strenuous walks at least a couple of times a day. Herding breeds such as Australian Shepherds and Border Collies are also high-energy dogs who need lots of opportunities to stretch their legs. Other breeds may be satisfied with shorter or less frequent walks. They include retired racing Greyhounds, giant breeds such as Great Danes or Mastiffs, and dogs such as Bichons Frise, Lhasa Apsos, Chow Chows and Chinese Shar-Pei.
However if you can't walk every day there are other options for activity:
If you have a back garden, play a fast game of fetch. It’s something you and your dog can do together, and it doesn’t require going anywhere.
Play indoors. This is perfect for small breeds such as Cavalier King Charles Spaniels, Chihuahuas, Papillons and Yorkshire Terriers, who will enjoy chasing a ball down the hall as many times as you’ll throw it.
Bring out a puzzle toy. Load it with kibble and let your dog “hunt” for his dinner. This is a great option for any size or breed of dog.
Do a quick training session. A series of sits, downs, stays, comes and spins — or whatever else your dog knows — challenges his brain, gets in some activity and reinforces his good behavior.
Play a hide-and-seek game. Hide some treats throughout the house and let your dog go find them. Or have him go find your kids or spouse. If he does nose work, it’s easy to play at home, both indoors and out.
You’re not failing as a pet owner if you miss a walk — just be sure your dog is getting the attention and exercise he needs on a regular basis.