How much play should a dog have a day?

Every dog's daily schedule should include walking to ensure their physical and mental well-being. Typically, dogs require a minimum of one to two walks per day, unless advised otherwise by your veterinarian. It’s also important that your dog is able to spend time sniffing, having fun, running and playing on their walks, otherwise they are likely to get bored. If you find yourself rushing dog walks, try to find a better time of the day to walk them, or consider hiring a dog walker. Walks give your dog a chance to sniff new smells, explore new places and meet new people and dogs – all of which are really important for their mental wellbeing and confidence. It’s best to avoid chasing, jumping, and skidding, and observe what surfaces are more comfortable for them to walk on. It can help to try to get a physical barrier between the two dogs, for example a gate, fence or car, if your dog is aggressive towards other dogs. If you do meet another dog, walk away calmly and quickly, whilst distracting your dog with something they really like, such as a treat or toy. It’s also sensible to avoid steep slopes, as they put extra pressure on the joints. If your dog has been diagnosed with arthritis, it’s important to keep them moving regularly throughout the day to prevent their joints seizing up but the exercise they do should be low impact.