How long to walk with a 6 month old

Hi there,

We currently walk slowly with Eco about once a day. It's usually a slow walk, with sniffing and sits and downs along the way, that takes about 40 mins, with a stop at a small park for some free play.

She doesn't seem to get tired with this duration, but am a little nervous it's too much.

Thoughts?

Once a day is not enough! Try twice a day 30 min each walk as the rule is 5 min per month of age . That's for walking play time not included as they can rest if want to.

Unless your dog is obviously tired and you're having to coax her, or clearly pushing herself too hard on a regular basis, then I don't believe in 'too much'. I think it's one of these things that has gained traction through internet forums and general gossip and when you investigate the science behind it you find there isn't any. Exercising too little, however, can cause well documented problems.

Definitely not having to coax her. We go at least once a day and also on other adventures like visiting friends. But will look at going more frequently and shorter time frames. In the park she usually runs around nicely and also takes time out to chill.

It does seem there is an obsession with the danger of over exercising. And so much contradictory information online!

I don't believe that you can over exercise an adult, but I have sadly seen awful damage from over exercising puppies - especially larger breeds. But as stated the rule is 5 minutes per month x 2 daily - so at 6 months you can offer 2 30 minute walks a day. Plus socialising at friends houses, trick/obedience training and interactive feeding with the use of kongs etc should keep her occupied but not over tired.

Yeah what peppa says 5 mins for every month twice a day and play time in between.

As above, and should be twice a day, mental stimulation ietraining and games are a must also

Can't add to above

Rachel33 wrote:I don't believe that you can over exercise an adult, but I have sadly seen awful damage from over exercising puppies - especially larger breeds. But as stated the rule is 5 minutes per month x 2 daily - so at 6 months you can offer 2 30 minute walks a day. Plus socialising at friends houses, trick/obedience training and interactive feeding with the use of kongs etc should keep her occupied but not over tired.

I agree. As pups their neurological system, ligaments, and joints are not developed enough to support over exercise and too much exercise can cause permanent damage. The five minute rule is an excellent guide up until 18 months