A major benefit of having a dog is the ability to take them on long walks, to the local park to play fetch, or even to participate in sport activities, e.g. agility, flyball, etc. Regular exercise is essential for adult dogs, and is a really good way to spend time with your dog and bond. Getting out and about helps to keep them mentally stimulated and entertained, and allows them and you to meet other dogs.

It is very important, however, to limit the amount of exercise that young dogs are getting, as it can have some detrimental effects later in life. To begin with, you’ll need to teach your puppy to walk on the lead without pulling. Regular, short walks (10-20 minutes) on the lead are more than enough for a young puppy, particularly if going outside helps with toilet training.

Once they are walking nicely on the lead, you can very gradually build up the length of time that your puppy is out on walks. Walking off the lead should be kept until your dog is almost fully grown – this will depend on the breed of dog – and until you have excellent re-call. Adult dogs should be exercised according to their needs.

Try to avoid walking in the heat of the day during the summer, and in the winter remember to wash their paws after walking on icy pavements as the salt and grit used can be irritant.

You will soon get to know how much exercise your dog can tolerate and try not to allow them to overdo things. If your dog is very active, remember that there are other ways to keep them stimulated and prevent them from channelling their excess energy into destructive behaviours like chewing. Obedience training requires a great deal of concentration from them, and puzzle toys where they have to work out how to access a reward will also keep them entertained.