Puppy Exercise Guide: Tips for Keeping Your Pup Growing Strong and Healthy
Bringing a new puppy home means new adventures, lots of cuddles, and plenty of playtime! But when it comes to exercise, many pet parents don’t realize that too much of a good thing can actually harm your pup’s growing bones and joints. Here’s everything you need to know about keeping your puppy active — safely.
How Much Exercise Does a Puppy Need?
Puppies are bursting with energy, but their bones and growth plates are still soft and developing. Too much exercise too soon can lead to injuries and long-term joint problems.
A good rule of thumb:
5 minutes of exercise per month of age, twice a day.
So, if your puppy is 6 months old, they should get about 30 minutes of gentle exercise twice a day. Short and sweet is best!
When Can I Start Walking My Puppy?
Most new pet parents can’t wait to clip on that tiny leash and head out for a walk — but don’t rush!
Before your puppy’s vaccinations are complete, it’s safest to keep them away from public areas where they could catch diseases like parvovirus or kennel cough. Always check with your vet to find out when it’s safe for your puppy to meet the outside world.
Top Tips for Walking Your Puppy
When your pup is ready for their first stroll:
- Keep it slow and steady — stick to a gentle walking pace.
- Go for short distances only.
- If your puppy sits or lies down, let them rest — they’ll get up when they’re ready.
- If they seem tired, don’t push them. Head home for snuggles instead!
Petsgofun Tip: Use a lightweight, comfortable harness and leash to keep your puppy secure and happy on their mini adventures.
Free Playtime: Let Your Puppy Run Safely
Besides daily walks, puppies need time to run and play freely — in safe spaces like your backyard or a secure, dog-friendly park.
Free play lets them adjust their pace naturally, rest when they’re tired, and burn off energy in healthy bursts. Once your puppy is fully vaccinated, a good romp in an off-leash area is wonderful for their mental and physical development.
Petsgofun Tip: Skip intense games like endless fetch or high jumps — these can stress developing joints. Instead, try gentle toys or safe, moderate chasing games.
Don’t Overdo It!
Puppies should avoid:
- Running long distances or going for jogs.
- Climbing lots of stairs or steep hills.
- Brisk or extended hikes.
- Intense fetch sessions with balls or frisbees.
Also, never exercise your puppy right before or after meals — this can cause tummy troubles like bloat, especially in deep-chested breeds like Dobermans or German Shepherds.
Growing Healthy with Petsgofun
At Petsgofun, we believe every puppy deserves a safe, happy start in life. From cozy harnesses to fun, gentle toys, our products are designed to keep your growing fur baby healthy, active, and ready to explore the world — at their own pace.
💚 Happy puppy, happy life!