How much activity does my dog need?
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I’m new to dog ownership and trying to figure out how much activity/exercise my dog needs. When I first got my dog Tod (Lab mix), I had no idea what to expect. Do dogs sleep the whole day? How do I entertain him? Since then, I’ve figured the basics out. However, I’m still trying to figure out how much exercise he actually needs. I see that some dog activity trackers measure burned calories, but I don’t even know the average. Does anyone have advice on this? How much active time should I ensure my dog gets each day?
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Welcome to the wild (and wonderful) world of dog ownership! You’re asking a great question—because the amount of exercise a dog needs can vary a lot based on age, breed, and energy level. Since Tod is a Lab mix, chances are he’s on the higher-energy side. Most adult Labradors and Lab mixes thrive with at least one to two hours of activity each day, which can include walks, playtime, training games, or off-leash running if you have a safe space.
It’s totally normal to feel unsure in the beginning. Dogs don’t necessarily need nonstop action, but they do need a mix of physical and mental stimulation to stay happy and balanced. Tod might sleep a good portion of the day (most adult dogs snooze around 12–14 hours daily), but that doesn’t mean he doesn’t need structured activity to burn off energy and prevent boredom. If he’s restless at night, chewing things he shouldn’t, or constantly pestering you for attention, it might be a sign he needs more enrichment.
Activity trackers can be helpful tools, but they’re just part of the picture. Start by making sure Tod gets a couple of walks each day, and mix in some fetch, puzzle toys, or basic training sessions. If he seems content and calm afterward, you’re probably on the right track. And don’t worry—figuring this stuff out is all part of the journey!
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