Puppy Exercise Guide

Bringing home a new puppy is a joyful whirlwind, and one of the first things many pet parents wonder is: how much exercise is too much? From 3 months to a year, your puppy’s body is developing rapidly—bones are growing, growth plates are still open, and joints are soft and vulnerable. Overexercising at this stage can lead to long-term joint problems, especially in medium to large breed dogs. According to Puppy Culture and veterinary orthopedic guidelines, structured walks should be short and age-appropriate, gradually increasing in duration as your pup matures.

A commonly used rule of thumb is five minutes of structured walking per month of age, up to twice a day. That means a 3-month-old pup can handle about 15 minutes at a time, while a 6-month-old can walk for 30 minutes. These are structured, on-leash walks on relatively flat surfaces—not hikes, runs, or overly stimulating environments. Puppies tire quickly, and unlike adult dogs, they often don’t show obvious signs of fatigue until they’re already overstressed. Overdoing it—even if your pup seems energetic—can strain developing joints and affect long-term mobility.

In addition to age-appropriate walks, free play is crucial. Puppies should have access to safe areas where they can move at their own pace, rest when needed, and engage in natural exploration. Gentle play with other well-socialized dogs, for example, helps build coordination and body awareness. But high-impact activities like jumping off furniture, running up stairs, or rough play should be avoided or closely supervised. Puppy Culture emphasizes the importance of what they call "self-directed movement"—allowing puppies to learn their own physical boundaries while respecting their need for frequent rest.

Most importantly, approach your puppy’s exercise routine with love and patience. Resist the urge to push them further just to burn energy. Mental stimulation—like sniff walks, basic training, or puzzle feeders—can tire a puppy just as effectively as physical exercise, without the strain on growing bones. Every step your puppy takes in their first year lays the foundation for a lifetime of movement. Protecting their developing body now is one of the kindest gifts you can give your future dog.