Dog Exercise 101 

This article was written in collaboration with Rover, and approved by Lemonade’s favorite Vet Dr. Stephanie Liff.

Does this sound familiar? You come home after a long day, and your furry sidekick is bouncing off the walls, tennis ball in mouth, tail wagging wildly. Regular exercise isn’t just fun, it’s essential for their health, happiness, and mental well-being.

But, there’s always the chance of injuries or accidents during playtime. That’s why savvy dog owners take the time to learn about common injuries and how to plan for them. 

Ready to get those paws moving, safely? Let’s play ball.

How much exercise does my dog really need?

The amount of exercise your dog needs depends on multiple factors including their breed, age, general health, and even their personality. 

Let’s take a quick look at the daily exercise needs for each kind of breed:

Dog group	Popular breeds	Estimated daily exercise needed
Herding breeds	Australian Cattle Dog Australian Shepherd Border Collie	90-120 minutes of high-intensity exercise. These dogs need both physical and mental challenges. Combine long runs with agility training, puzzle games, or “jobs” like fetching specific items.
Hound breeds	Basset Hound Beagle Dachsund	30-60 minutes of moderate, scent-focused activities. Prioritize sniffing walks, tracking games, and exploration over high-impact exercise. Let them follow their noses on longer, leisurely routes.
Toy breeds	Chihuahua Havanese Pug	20-30 minutes of gentle activity split into short sessions. Indoor play, brief walks, and light games work best. Monitor closely for fatigue and overheating.
Non-sporting breeds	Boston Terrier Bulldog Poodle	30-60 minutes with wide variation by individual breed needs. This diverse group ranges from low-energy companions to athletic dogs requiring swimming and vigorous play.
Sporting breeds	Cocker Spaniel Golden Retriever Labrador Retriever	60-90 minutes of active, retrieval-based exercise. Include swimming, fetch games, and long hikes. These water-loving athletes thrive with varied outdoor activities.
Working breeds	Boxer Siberian Husky Saint Bernard	45-90 minutes adjusted for size and purpose. Larger breeds need steady, moderate exercise while smaller working dogs can handle more intense cardio and strength-building activities.
Terrier breeds	Rat Terrier Russell Terrier Airedale Terrier	45-75 minutes of energetic, interactive play. These high-energy hunters need activities that engage their prey drive, think chase games, digging opportunities, and vigorous fetch sessions.

Of course, these are general guidelines as each dog is unique. Dr. Liff emphasizes that individual factors play a crucial role in determining the right exercise routine:

“Your dog’s age and breed should guide how long and intense their exercise sessions are. What’s especially important to remember is that growing puppies shouldn’t do hard running on pavement for extended periods. 

The good news? Regular exercise doesn’t just keep dogs physically fit, it’s also been linked to better cognitive function as they age, and maintaining a healthy weight helps dogs live longer lives.”

– Dr. Stephanie Liff

The benefits of regular dog exercise

Like most domesticated animals (including humans!), dogs need plenty of exercise. Not only does it keep them physically healthy and help prevent issues like obesity and diabetes, but it’s also great for maintaining their mental health and emotional regulation. 

Physical benefits

Regular exercise helps dogs manage their weight, builds stronger muscles and joints, and even reduces the risk of obesity and related diseases (like canine diabetes or heart issues). It’s especially important for active dog breeds who thrive on daily walks, games of fetch, or agility training.

Mental health

Ever heard the saying “a tired dog is a happy dog”? Regular exercise offers much-needed mental stimulation. It helps reduce anxiety, minimize destructive behaviors, and can prevent boredom (which often leads to mischief).

Social skills & training

Dog parks, hikes, or a good game of tug of war aren’t just for exercise—they’re prime opportunities for socialization and reinforcing what your dog learns during obedience training.

Nicole Ellis, a Certified Professional Dog Trainer (CPDT-KA) on Rover’s Pet People Panel, highlights just how powerful exercise can be for your dog’s overall wellbeing:

“Exercise is one of the best gifts you can give your dog’s mental health. Whether it’s a long hike outside, a sniffari in the neighborhood or a quick game indoors, moving their body helps release stress, burn energy, and keep their mind balanced.

There are countless ways to exercise indoors with your dog—from games and trick training to balance work—proving that movement doesn’t have to be limited to the outdoors.”

-Nicole Ellis (CPDT-KA)

How do I know if my dog is getting enough exercise? 

Dogs can’t tell us exactly how they feel, but their bodies and behaviors offer plenty of clues. Watching for these signs can help you figure out if your dog’s exercise plan is on the right track, or if you need to switch things up.

Not enough

If your dog isn’t getting enough exercise or mental stimulation, you might notice some frustrating behaviors at home. Restlessness, destructive acts like chewing up your shoes or other things they shouldn’t, or excessive barking can all be signs your dog needs more walks, playtime, or engaging games. 

This is especially true for high-energy or working breeds, who tend to act out when they’re bored or under-stimulated.

Over time, an insufficient exercise routine can even impact your dog’s physical health, leading to weaker muscles, poor cardiovascular wellness, and a reduced quality of life, especially as your dog ages. 

Too much

It’s also possible for a dog to get too much exercise. If you notice your pooch limping, lagging behind on walks, or seeming reluctant to play, they could be overdoing it. Other signs include stiff or sore muscles, and excessive panting even after activity has stopped. 

Just right 

A dog who’s getting just the right amount of daily exercise will generally be relaxed and content after playtime, and should settle down easily indoors. You’ll also notice they have a healthy appetite and sleep soundly, showing that their physical activity is well suited to their energy levels.

Paying attention and tailoring activity based on age, breed, and individual needs is key for your dog’s overall well-being.

Fun and flexible exercise ideas for any situation

Every dog and living arrangement is unique, which means sometimes you’ve got to get a little creative to make sure your pup stays active. Whether you’re in a small apartment, juggling a busy work week, or dealing with unpredictable weather, here are some ways dog owners in all sorts of situations can provide the exercise their dog needs:

Limited Space

If you don’t have a backyard or much space in general, try:

• Hallway races: Use any available long hallway for quick games of fetch or gentle sprints
• Puzzle feeders, treat-dispensing balls, or snuffle mats: Engage your dog’s body and mind with puzzle feeders, snuffle mats, or hide-and-seek games with treats
• DIY agility: Rearrange cushions, chairs, and boxes to create mini-obstacle courses for jumps, weaves, and crawls

Dr. Liff explains that you don’t always need high-intensity workouts to keep your dog healthy, “When you’re dealing with small spaces or dogs on exercise restrictions, mental games like food puzzles can burn nearly the same calories and provide the same mental health benefits as high-energy physical activity.” 

Urban Living

City life can mean busy streets and little green space, but there are options!

• Dog-friendly courtyards: Make use of any shared and dog-friendly spaces for supervised playtime
• Neighborhood walks & runs: New routes and sights make for great mental stimulation as well as physical activity
• Doggy daycare: Let your dog enjoy structured play and socialization during busy days

Busy Schedules

If you’re working long hours or have a packed calendar, try:

• Quick play sessions: Five-minute bursts of tug, fetch, or training exercises throughout the day really add up
• Automated toys: Ball launchers or treat-dispensing gadgets can keep your dog active when you’re occupied
• Professional walkers or sitters: Hiring help ensures your dog gets out and about, even on your busiest days

Ellis adds that even the simplest movements can make a big difference. “Some of the best exercises are simple and easy such as working on some trick training or sit to down 3x’s (AKA, puppy push ups).”

Extreme Weather

Rain, snow, or heatwaves don’t have to derail your dog’s exercise routine:

• Indoor games: Hide and seek, stair running (if safe), or practicing obedience skills can be done inside
• Short, frequent breaks: When outside is tough, do several short outings rather than one long walk
• Local indoor facilities: Look for dog-friendly gyms, training centers, or indoor dog parks in your area

Rural Living or Large Properties

If you have a lot of space but your dog is independent or there are wildlife risks:

• Leashed adventures: Take your dog on-leash to explore new areas rather than letting them roam unsupervised
• Trail hikes & scent walks: Vary your routes to keep things fresh and engaging
• Build a backyard agility course: Make exercise exciting with jumps, tunnels, or even homemade toys

No matter the challenge, the key is to find activities that suit both your environment and your dog’s needs. With a little creativity and flexibility, you can keep any pup’s tail wagging—even when space, time, or weather aren’t on your side!

What are the injury risks of playtime? 

It’s important to remember that active lifestyles can carry some risks. Whether you’re playing fetch in the backyard, running an obstacle course, or heading out for a hike, injuries can happen, even to the best dog in top shape.

Active dogs are especially prone to the following playtime injuries: 

• Sprains and strains, which can occur during sudden stops, sharp turns, or overly enthusiastic leaps
• Paw injuries, particularly if your dog is running on hot pavement, rough terrain, or sharp gravel
• Torn ligaments, like the dreaded ACL tear, are more serious injuries that often affect high-energy dogs during intense play, agility training, or short bursts of activity
• Heatstroke during the hotter months, especially during outdoor play in the sun

Keep an eye out for early signs of injury. Limping, reluctance to exercise, licking at paws or joints, muscle fatigue, and excessive panting could all mean your dog has pushed a little too hard. 

How can I protect my dog from injuries during exercise?

Protecting your dog during exercise is all about preparation and paying attention to their unique needs. Whether you have an active dog who loves agility training or a senior dog in need of short walks, simple precautions go a long way in reducing injury risks. 

To help keep your pooch safe and healthy, follow these injury prevention tips:

• Start with a 5-minute walk before intense play, and end with gentle stretching or a slow cooldown walk
• Avoid exercising in extreme heat or cold
• Avoid concrete and asphalt, grass and dirt are easier on joints
• Check for hazards like sharp rocks or debris
• Monitor your dog for sore muscles, limping, or excessive panting
• Schedule regular vet check-ups and adjust routines as needed

Dr. Liff notes that certain environments pose particular risks:

“Cruciate ligament injuries are the most common activity-related injury we see, but terrain matters too. In rocky or desert environments, dogs can suffer scorched paw pads or cuts depending on where they’re exercising.”

– Dr. Stephanie Liff

What should I do if my dog gets hurt? 

If your dog experiences an injury during play or exercise, acting quickly can make a big difference in their recovery. 

As soon as you notice an issue, stop all activity right away. Give your dog plenty of rest, and if there’s swelling, you can gently apply an ice pack to the area. It’s important to call your vet for advice, as they can guide you on whether at-home care is enough or if a visit is needed.

Always watch closely for emergency signs that need immediate vet attention, such as:,:

• Being unable to put weight on a limb
• Severe bleeding
• Obvious distress, like difficulty breathing or extreme panting

In these cases, it’s vital to seek emergency veterinary care ASAP. 

How can I manage those unexpected vet bills? 

Here’s the thing nobody talks about: even with the best precautions, accidents happen. And when they do, vet bills can be stressful. and put an unexpected drain on your wallet. Luckily for active dog owners, Lemonade pet insurance can help take a bite out of vet bills for those unexpected play-time injuries. 

Lemonade’s pet insurance provides coverage for diagnostics, treatments, and medications for any eligible injuries your furry friend might sustain during playtime. (AKA, any injuries that aren’t pre-existing). You can even customize your policy to get coverage for things like visit fees and physical therapy. 

If your dog gets hurt during playtime, just head to any state-licensed vet for the diagnostics, treatments, or meds they need to recover. Filing a claim with Lemonade couldn’t be easier, just open the Lemonade app, upload the vet invoice or receipt, and include your pet’s medical records or notes from the visit. If your claim’s approved, the reimbursement goes straight to your bank account. Even better? About 50% of Lemonade pet claims are processed instantly, and 80% are resolved within just five days.

So whether your 6-month old Golden Retriever sprains their paw playing fetch in the yard, or your senior Pug steps on a piece of glass during their leisurely stroll, we’ve got you covered. 

Ready, set, play! 

The right amount of dog exercise helps your furry friend thrive physically and mentally. While most play sessions end with happy, tired pups, even the most careful owners can find themselves facing a mishap.

So grab that favorite toy and get moving, just remember to exercise safely and responsibly! And while you’re here, why not grab a quote to make sure your furry friend is protected? After all, an active dog is a happy dog, and a well-protected one is even better.

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A few quick words, because we <3 our lawyers: This post is general in nature, and any statement in it doesn’t alter the terms, conditions, exclusions, or limitations of policies issued by Lemonade, which differ according to your state of residence. You’re encouraged to discuss your specific circumstances with your own professional advisors. The purpose of this post is merely to provide you with info and insights you can use to make such discussions more productive! Naturally, all comments by, or references to, third parties represent their own views, and Lemonade assumes no responsibility for them. Coverage and discounts may not be available in all states.