It’s hard enough choosing the right pup, with so many factors to consider. Their size, diet, personality traits – all of which will ultimately affect your decision. Another important consideration to make before bringing home your new best friend is how often they should be exercising. Certain breeds need to be more active than others to remain happy and healthy. Let’s look at five popular dog breed groups and the exercise needs of each.
Toys
Also known as companions, Pekinese pups form part of this category as well as other cute miniatures. These kinds of dogs tend to have lower energy levels and can get away with five to 10 minutes of exercise and play once or twice a day. Due to their small size, they can be exercised indoors with a game of fetch followed by a quick walk outside.
Hounds
The scent-sniffing Basset Hound is part of this family of dogs – the original hunters. Sighthounds, including Greyhounds, have high spurts of energy followed by dips and require a 20- to 30-minute walk every day. On the other hand, scent hounds like Bassets or Beagles have higher exercise demands, so an hour-long daily activity or two 30-minute sessions is recommended for these go-getters. Hunting and lure chasing are two activities these dogs will enjoy.
Working and herding dogs
Historically, these pups used to be farm dogs where they would pull weight or herd sheep for their owners. Due to their high intelligence and energy levels, these dogs often need to be physically and mentally challenged. Herding dogs include German Shepherds and Siberian Huskies. It’s recommended that these doggies get at least 60-90 minutes of higher intensity exercise each day, including mentally stimulating games like hide-and-seek. Hiking is another activity these hard workers will thrive on.
Sporting dogs
The Golden Retriever and other retrievers, pointers, setters and spaniels make up the sporting group of canines. As hunting companions, these breeds are usually alert and active and require regular endurance exercise. Like working dogs, they also need mental exertion, so short trick training throughout the day is your best bet. Ensure these pups get at least one to two hours of moderate exercise daily, including fetch-related fun. They also make fantastic running or cycling partners.
Terriers
Friendly and energetic, these cuties were originally bred to sniff and dig out prey. The Jack Russel forms part of this group, and despite being smaller in size than most of the other groups, these pups enjoy a 30- 60-minute moderate walk each day. As a result of their instincts, terriers love to play hide-and-seek for treats.
Energy coupled with boredom is a disaster waiting to happen (say goodbye to your brand-new couch), so be sure to help your dog work off his energy outdoors as often as you can. Prioritising exercise with your dog is tricky with a demanding schedule but can be done. Try work their exercise into your own workout for double the endorphin rush and fun and to encourage more bonding time with your bestie.
Pet transport companies like PETport strive to ensure your pets are looked after both when relocating, and in everyday life. Enquire today for more expert advice for your furry family member.
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About PETport
PETport is a registered pet travel and relocation specialist service, trained and certified by international animal organisation, IPATA. With hands-on care and experience passed down from one generation to the next, PETport is the best choice to transport fur babies, fluff babies and feather babies.
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