How Long Should You Play With Your Dog? Important Care Facts & FAQ
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Between your busy work schedule and spending time with your family, it can be easy to put your dog’s needs aside, at least when it comes to playtime. Regardless of their age, your dog needs regular socialization and exercise to keep them mentally and physically healthy.
Most dog owners know that good nutrition, regular vaccinations, and routine vet checks are necessary for keeping a dog healthy. But not everyone with a dog realizes the importance of playtime and socialization to a dog’s overall well-being.
While there is no one-size-fits-all answer to how much playtime a dog needs each day, most experts agree that dog owners should spend at least 30 minutes each day playing with their dogs.1
Factors to Consider
There are many factors to consider when determining how much time you should spend playing with your dog every day including:
- Your Dog’s Age: A puppy will need more playtime each day than an adult dog because puppies are full of energy, and they need proper socialization.
- Your Dog’s Overall Health: If your dog is unwell or injured, they probably need rest more than exercise so that they can recover. Rest your dog as much as your vet recommends and find other ways to prevent them from becoming bored and frustrated, such as taking them for regular walks.
- The Breed of Your Dog: Large breeds, like German Shepherds and Dobermans, have higher energy levels than smaller breeds, which means they need more exercise. Dogs with flat faces, like Pugs and Bulldogs, require plenty of exercise, but they’re prone to breathing difficulties. Therefore, think of the type of dog you have when determining how much time you spend playing with them.
- Your Dog’s Fitness Level: A dog that’s fit and in good shape will generally require more playtime than a dog that’s out of shape. If your dog is overweight, take it easy with playtime and gradually build up how much time you spend tossing a ball or playing chase.
Tips for Ensuring Your Dog Gets Adequate Exercise
Without a doubt, regular exercise and playtime are essential for your dog. Exercise can prevent your dog from becoming overweight, and playtime is a great bonding experience for both of you. Here are some tips for ensuring your dog gets plenty of exercise to keep them healthy and happy:
- Take Regular Walks: One or two good walks a day are great for most dogs. Try working a dog walk or two into your daily routine and go out no matter what. Don’t let the weather stop you unless it’s so terrible outside that it puts you and your dog at risk, such as icy sidewalks or severe weather conditions.
- Use a Dog Ball Launcher: A great way to ensure your dog gets in some running is to buy a ball launcher that enables you to toss a ball repeatedly without tiring yourself out.
- Use a Food-Dispensing Toy: A food dispenser toy can turn mealtime into a fun activity and encourage your dog to move while eating. This type of toy is also a great way of slowing a dog that tends to eat too fast.
- Secure Your Yard: If your dog is allowed to run free in your yard, they’ll get lots of exercise. If your yard isn’t fenced in, consider installing a fence so your dog can have free reign of the property.
- Hire Someone to Walk and Play With Your Dog: If you’re busy and can’t find the time to walk your dog regularly or play with them in the yard, consider hiring someone to help you out. Maybe there’s a dog-knowledgeable teenager in your neighborhood who would love to earn some extra money by hanging out with your furry friend.
What Not to Do
While playtime is important for your dog, don’t ever force your dog to exercise. Forced exercise is never good, so don’t overdo it to the point of exhaustion.
Another thing to avoid is running your dog alongside your bicycle. Not only is it unsafe, but it may also be against the law in your area. Playtime should be fun for your dog and not something they’re forced to do, so use your common sense when coming up with exercise ideas.
After each walk and play session, don’t neglect to offer your dog a dish of fresh water. Also, allow your dog the opportunity to rest after walking or playing. A great idea is to reward your dog with a tasty doggie treat for being a good pooch while walking or playing.
Final Thoughts
All dogs need regular playtime, as it’s important for both their physical and emotional well-being. Many factors come into play when determining how much playtime a dog needs including its breed, age, and overall health. If you’re unsure how long you should play with your dog, ask your vet!
Featured Image Credit: Julia Siomuha, Shutterstock
