Your dog is giving you that look again. The one that says "I've been waiting patiently for exactly 23 minutes (give or take 10 seconds), and now it's definitely time for our walk."

But between work deadlines and Texas heat, you're wondering: how much exercise does your dog truly need to stay healthy and happy?

The answer isn't as simple as "30 minutes a day." Exercise needs vary dramatically based on your dog's breed, age, health, and individual personality. Here's what McKinney dog owners need to know about keeping their pets properly exercised.

Exercise needs vary by breed.

Dogs are very different from breed to breed—particularly when it comes to exercise needs. Your typical Border Collie has vastly different needs than a Bulldog, and understanding your dog's breed background will help you to set realistic expectations.

High-energy breeds like Australian Shepherds, Labs, and German Shepherds were bred for demanding jobs. These dogs typically need 1-2 hours of vigorous exercise daily. A quick walk around the block won't cut it, either. They need activities that challenge them mentally and physically.

Moderate-energy breeds including Golden Retrievers, Beagles, and most mixed breeds do well with 30-60 minutes of daily exercise. This can include walks, backyard play, or trips to the dog park.

Lower-energy breeds like Bulldogs, Basset Hounds, and many smaller dogs are content with 20-30 minutes of gentle exercise. These dogs often prefer shorter, more frequent activities rather than long, intense sessions.

Age and health determine exercise needs.

Puppies have high energy but low stamina. They need several short play sessions throughout the day rather than one long walk. A good rule of thumb is 5 minutes of exercise per month of age, twice daily. So a 4-month-old puppy needs about 20 minutes of exercise twice a day.

Senior dogs still need regular exercise, but their needs change with age. Arthritis, joint pain, and reduced stamina mean shorter, gentler walks work better than long hikes. For some breeds where back issues become noticeable with age, swimming can be excellent low-impact exercise option as well.

Dogs with health conditions require customized exercise plans. Heart conditions, hip dysplasia, and breathing issues all affect how much and what type of exercise is appropriate. So if your pup has health concerns, it’s worth consulting with your vet to see how you can work in some exercise without exacerbating their conditions.

5 Signs Your Dog Needs More Exercise

Destructive behavior often occurs as a result of insufficient exercise. Dogs that have too much pent-up energy are bound to start chewing furniture, digging holes, or excessive barking frequently—unless they’re given a more productive outlet.

Other signs include:

Restlessness and pacing
Attention-seeking behaviors
Weight gain
Difficulty settling down
Hyperactivity when you get home

Be careful not to overdo it, though, as it is possible to exercise your dog too much—especially in hot Texas weather. Watch for excessive panting that doesn't stop after rest, lethargy, sore muscles, or reluctance to exercise. Dogs can overheat quickly in McKinney's summer temperatures, so timing and intensity matter.

And also bear in mind that physical exercise is just part of the equation. Mental stimulation can be just as tiring as physical activity, and it's crucial for preventing destructive behaviors born from boredom.

Puzzle toys, training sessions, and new walking routes all provide mental exercise. This is particularly important for intelligent breeds who get restless when their minds aren't challenged.

Looking for a dog walker in McKinney, TX?

Most dogs need 30 minutes to 2 hours of exercise daily, but the specifics depend on individual factors. But that can be a tall order when your schedule is busy.

So when life gets busy, you should know: you have options. One of them is hiring a dog walker to take care of your pup even when you’re travelling, in meetings, or running errands.

Whether you have a senior dog that needs a saunter or a Border Collie ready to do windsprints, we’re here to help. So if you need reliable dog walking services in McKinney, give us a call at (469) 242-0892 or request service online.