15 Dog Exercise Ideas to Keep Your Dog Happy and Healthy
Fun ways to exercise your dog's body and mind, from sniff walks and fetch to puzzle toys and indoor games, plus how much exercise different dogs need.
In this article
Many behavior problems, like barking, chewing and digging, come from a dog with too much pent-up energy. Regular physical and mental exercise keeps dogs fit, happy and calmer at home. Here are 15 ideas for every energy level.
How much exercise does a dog need?
It varies by breed, age and health. High-energy working and sporting breeds may need an hour or more of vigorous activity daily, while many small, senior or flat-faced dogs need much less. Puppies do best with short play sessions rather than long, strenuous runs. Ask your veterinarian what's right for your dog, especially before starting a new running routine.
Outdoor exercise ideas
- Walks: vary your route to keep things interesting.
- "Sniffari" walks: let your dog sniff at their own pace. Sniffing is mentally tiring and very satisfying for dogs.
- Fetch: a classic for retrievers.
- Hiking: great for active dogs. Bring water and check trail rules.
- Swimming: low-impact exercise, ideal for older dogs with joint issues. Use a dog life jacket for weak swimmers.
- Flirt pole: a lure on a rope that lets dogs chase in a small space.
- Playdates with compatible, vaccinated dogs.
- Agility or dog sports: classes are fun for both of you.
Indoor and mental exercise ideas
- Puzzle feeders and snuffle mats turn mealtime into a game.
- Hide and seek: hide treats or hide yourself and call your dog.
- Tug of war: fine for most dogs when you teach "drop it."
- Short training sessions: learning tricks is mentally exhausting in the best way. See dog training tips.
- Stair climbing for healthy adult dogs, under supervision.
- Frozen treat toys stuffed with dog-safe food.
- "Find it" games: teach your dog to search for a favorite toy.
Safety tips
- Watch the heat. Exercise in the cool morning or evening in summer. Hot pavement can burn paws. If it's too hot for the back of your hand for several seconds, it's too hot for paws.
- Flat-faced breeds like Pugs and Bulldogs overheat easily.
- Bring water on longer outings.
- Watch for signs of overexertion: heavy panting, lagging behind or limping.
Choosing a dog that matches your activity level? See calm dog breeds and best family dogs.
