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The "more is better" trap
An enthusiastic owner taking their 4-month-old puppy on a 10km run risks causing irreversible damage to growing joints. Conversely, an active adult dog deprived of exercise will develop behavioural issues. The key: match exercise to age, breed, and individual fitness.
Puppy (2-12 months): the 5-minute rule
The commonly accepted veterinary guideline: 5 minutes of structured exercise per month of age, twice daily. A 3-month-old puppy = 15 minutes morning and evening.
- Encouraged: free play on soft surfaces (grass), loose-lead exploration, short positive training sessions
- Absolutely avoid: running on tarmac, repetitive jumping, frequent stairs, cycling/jogging
- Why: growth plates aren't closed until 12-18 months (24 months for giant breeds). Repeated impact can cause permanent joint deformities
Adolescent (12-24 months): progressive increase
Energy needs explode but joints aren't fully mature, especially in large breeds.
- Increase gradually: +5 minutes per week
- Introduce swimming — excellent zero-impact exercise
- Dog sports (agility, canicross) can begin at 12 months for small breeds, 18 months for large
Adult (2-7 years): the age of all activities
By breed type
- Working breeds (Malinois, Border Collie, Husky): 2h+ daily including intense exercise
- Sporting breeds (Labrador, Pointer, Setter): 1.5-2h, mix of walking and running
- Medium breeds (Beagle, Cocker, Spaniel): 1-1.5h
- Calm breeds (Bulldog, Basset, Pug): 30min-1h, watch for overheating
Recommended activities
Vary the fun: brisk walking, canicross, swimming, scent work, fetch, hiking. Mental stimulation counts as much as physical effort — an hour of scent work tires more than an hour of walking.
Senior (7+ years): adapt without stopping
Reducing exercise doesn't mean stopping it. An ageing dog still needs movement to maintain muscle mass and joint mobility.
- Replace 1 long walk with 2-3 shorter outings
- Favour soft surfaces (grass, earth) over tarmac
- Swimming is ideal — zero impact, full muscle workout
- Watch for fatigue signs: slowing down, limping, excessive panting
Warning signals
At Compagnon Cocoon, we always stress observation. Stop exercise if you notice: limping during or after activity, reluctance to get into the car, difficulty rising the next day, or prolonged panting more than 10 minutes after stopping. Consult your vet if these signs recur — they may indicate an underlying joint or cardiac condition.