How much should I be walking my dog?

No matter the size of your dog, regular exercise is key to keeping them happy and healthy.

Dogs love getting out and about, but how often should they really should be stretching their legs?

With your dogs breed, age and size all affecting how much exercise they need day to day, it can be tricky to guarantee you are getting the right amount. Here's our advice.

Puppies

When you first pick up your new furry friend, it can be tempting to play with them straight away.

But puppies need less exercise than fully grown dogs. While small breeds may reach maturity after 6 months, it can take larger breeds up to 18 months before they're fully grown.

Puppies generally need around 5 minutes of exercise per month of age, up to twice a day.

Adults

Every dog is different and the amount of exercise they need will vary depending on their breed, as well as their age, health and lifestyle.

Most pooch will benefit hugely from aerobic exercise, but each is unique. Take advice from your vet and don't forget to listen to what your dog is telling you too.

Here are the daily exercise guidelines for some of the UK's most popular dog breeds:

• border collie (90 minutes)
• labrador retriever (80 minutes)
• English cocker spaniel (70 minutes)
• medium-sized mongrel (60 minutes)
• pug (30 minutes)

Seniors

Older dogs don't need as much exercise as a younger pooch, but it's still important to keep them fit and healthy.

Taking senior dogs for walks will provide both physical and mental exercise, improving their overall wellbeing.

Get your dog even more active

On top of your dog's daily walk, extra physical activities are also good for making sure they're in tip top shape.

Try playing fetch, tug of war or even set up an agility course in the garden. If you're feeling more adventurous, canicross is a great way to get out in nature with your pooch.

Dogs need exercise to relieve stress, reduce behavioural problems and stimulate them mentally. If they're not getting enough, they can become obese, anxious, destructive and attention seeking.

Walking your dog during the winter months can be a challenge, so we've put together a handy article on staying safe whilst out in the dark.

Co-op Pet Insurance can help protect your furry friend too. Visit our pet insurance page to learn more and get a quote.