Short answer: it depends on your dog's breed, age, and health. Some breeds need a minimum of one to two hours a day, and working breeds need more. A growing puppy and a senior dog both need less than a fit adult.
What changes the amount
PDSA lists the main factors: breed, age, and health. Puppies should start exercise slowly to protect growing joints. Seniors often need a little less. A dog who is unwell or recovering may need rest, so follow your vet's advice. Build fitness gradually if you want to start something new like running or hiking. For more on this, see My dog stops to sniff every few steps. Is that still a real walk.
Exercise is more than walking
Dogs also need to use their noses and brains. Sniffing, searching for food, and simple games count. PDSA notes that puzzle feeders, snuffle mats, and brain games help dogs who are getting less physical exercise than usual, and are especially useful for breeds that need more mental stimulation.
A calm walk where your dog is allowed to sniff gives them something a fast march does not. Also notice what happens after: some dogs are settled after a sniffy walk and wired after a long game of fetch.
Signs the plan is working
Your dog enjoys the outing, comes home, eats, drinks, and settles. If your dog is still pacing or pestering you in the evening after a long walk, more distance is not always the fix. Try adding something for the brain, and give them a calm place to rest.
Weather and health
In hot weather, walk in the cooler hours and carry water. If your dog tires quickly, limps, coughs, or has trouble breathing, ask your vet before adding more.
Get the right help
If you are unsure what suits your dog, ask your vet. If your dog never seems to settle, no matter how much they do, a qualified behavior professional can help work out why.
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Frequently asked questions
How much is enough?
It depends on breed, age and health. Some breeds need a minimum of one to two hours a day, working breeds more, puppies and seniors less.
Does walking cover it?
Not all of it. Dogs also need to use their noses and brains: sniffing, searching for food and simple games count.
How do I know the plan is working?
Notice what happens after. Some dogs settle after a sniffy walk and get wired after a long game of fetch.
What about weather and health?
Adjust for heat, cold and recovery, and ask your vet when a dog is unwell, recovering or still growing.
