How Long Should My Dog’s Walk Be, and How Often?

One of the most common questions dog parents ask is deceptively simple: How long should my dog’s walk be, and how often do they need a walk? The answer is never one-size-fits-all, but understanding a few core principles can help you build a walking routine that supports your dog’s health, behavior, and happiness. After years as a professional dog walker, I am happy to walk you through some of the ways I determine the answer to this popular question.

How Long Should My Dog’s Walk Be, and How Often? It Depends!

Dogs have different needs based on age, breed, health, and energy level. A walk that’s perfect for one dog may be too much, or not nearly enough, for another.

General guidelines most veterinarians and behavior professionals agree on include:

• Puppies: Short, frequent walks (5–15 minutes) focused on potty, basic leash skills, and routine rather than distance
• Adult dogs: Typically 20–60 minutes per walk, one to two times per day depending on energy level
• Senior dogs: Shorter, gentler walks (10–30 minutes), sometimes more frequently to support mobility and digestion

According to this article by VCA Animal Hospitals, regular exercise supports physical health, weight management, and mental wellbeing, but it should always be tailored to the individual dog. There is also a strong link to exercise and longevity in dogs.

Dog Walks or Yard Let-Outs? Does it Matter?

For most dogs, daily walks are essential, even if they have access to a yard. Walks provide more than just a bathroom break, they offer mental stimulation, environmental enrichment, and structured movement. We are not big fans of doggie doors, which you can see in our recent blog about the dangers related to allowing your dog unsupervised access to your yard. And, most dogs that go out into the yard don’t get much exercise because they will sniff around a bit, lie down, or head back indoors, unless a human engages them in play, which isn’t often.

Assuming your dog can walk on a leash and is comfortable doing so, I recommend:

• One longer walk per day plus
• A shorter morning and/or evening walk to break up long periods of rest

This is especially true for dogs whose families work long hours, commute, or have variable schedules, which is common in Yorktown and Poquoson, particularly for military and professional households.

If, however, your dog isn’t trained to walk on a leash, you may need training first. We are happy to recommend equipment and can work on helping your dog develop this skill during midday dog walks.

The Benefits of Midday Dog Walks

Midday dog walks aren’t just convenient; they can be transformative, for you and your dog(s).

A midday walk helps:

• Relieve bladder/bowels for improved health and comfort
• Release pent-up energy
• Reduce boredom and restlessness
• Support calmer behavior in the evening
• Reinforce healthy daily routines
• Track potty so you know if your pet is having trouble eliminating
• Boost physical and mental health
• Minimizing accidents during potty training and aging

Dogs are incredibly routine-oriented. When walks happen at consistent times, dogs learn what to expect, which can reduce anxiety and overexcitement.

Signs Your Dog May Need Longer or More Frequent Walks

Every dog communicates their needs differently, but common signs a dog may benefit from more or longer walking include:

• Restlessness or pacing
• Excessive barking or whining
• Destructive behavior
• Weight gain
• Extreme excitement when people return home (could signal separation anxiety)
• Improper elimination indoors
• Dog seems elated to be outdoors and doesn’t want to head back in

While exercise isn’t a cure-all, it’s often a strong foundation for better behavior and overall balance.

How Long Should My Dog’s Walk Be, and How Often?

Professional dog walking isn’t about hitting a specific distance; it’s about reading the dog. Experienced walkers like ours adjust pace, duration, and route based on weather, energy level, and physical ability. In Hampton Roads, this also means accounting for heat, humidity, winter weather, and neighborhood conditions to keep walks safe and enjoyable year-round.

At Hearts at Home Pet Sitting, we focus on consistency, observation, and individualized care. When walks meet a dog’s real needs, they’re not just exercise; they’re an essential part of a happy, well-supported life for a well-adjusted, content dog.

The Best Dog Walkers in Yorktown, Poquoson, & Newport News

Hearts at Home Pet Sitting has been the most trusted dog walking company in Yorktown, Poquoson, Newport News, and Hampton, VA, since 2012. Our dog walking, dog sitting, and cat sitting services are tailored to each family and pet’s needs, ensuring your peace of mind and their safety every day and every visit.