May 03, 2011

How much walking is safe for my pup now that she is 4 months and when she's an adult?

Full Question:
Dear Mr. Frawley,

I have a question I haven't found answered (so far) on you website (for which I'm very grateful, same goes for your great DVDs). My GSD (pure German working lines) is now nearly 4 months old. How much walking is safe for her now and when she's an adult? I used to own a Gordon Setter who accompanied me either while on horse back or on a bike, she got about 2 hours of walking/day and lived to a ripe old age of 16. While I understand not to exercise a GSD too much before she is 12 months old, I would much appreciate to get a bit of a guide line from you. Right now, my puppy walks (not too fast) about 1 hour in the morning, and 10-15 minutes in the evening with me (mostly flat ground). Thank you so much!!

Sabine
Cindy
Cindy Cindy's Answer:
As long as the pup is allowed to go at her own pace and no forced running (like jogging on leash or running with the horse or bike) what you are doing now sounds fine.

I don’t start any really structured exercise with pups until 12-18 months, depending on the physical maturity of the dog.

Just like with us, the dog needs to ease into increased distances and intensity of exercise.

Cindy

No ratings yet
Was this Q&A helpful? Let us know!
Did you find this Q&A helpful?
Expert Dog Trainer Cindy Rhodes
No ratings yet
Was this Q&A helpful? Let us know!

Did you find this Q&A helpful?

Recommended Products
Scroll to Top