12/10/2025
Walking and jogging a dog have become so normalized that they are often the first activities that come to mind when we think about exercising a dog.
These forms of exercise are widely accepted as the "standard," to the point that some pet parents feel judged or criticized if they don't walk their dog every single day.
There's often an unspoken expectation that if you live with a dog, daily walks or jogs are non-negotiable. However, this mindset doesn't take into account that walks and jogs aren't always feasible for every dog or their person.
For some dogs, walks may not even be physically possible, especially for older dogs, dogs with mobility issues, or those suffering from physical disabilities.
Weather conditions such as extreme heat, cold, or rain can make outdoor walks unsafe or uncomfortable.
Some dogs have allergies that make outdoor activity challenging, or they may become overwhelmed by certain environmental stimuli such as noise, traffic, or other dogs.
And let's not forget that some dogs may have mental health concerns, like anxiety or fear, which can make walks a stressful experience for them rather than a fun outing.
Fortunately, there are a wide range of alternative activities that can offer both physical and mental stimulation, allowing dogs to burn off energy and stay healthy, without the need for daily walks or jogs.
Let’s focus on expanding our definition of what constitutes "exercise" for dogs so that we can create a more inclusive and understanding environment for pet parents, recognizing that every dog has unique needs and capabilities.
At the end of the day, it's about finding what works best for your dog and ensuring they stay happy, healthy, and mentally stimulated - whether that involves daily walks, or a mix of alternative activities!
We wrote an entire book about this called Canine Enrichment For The Real World. If you need ideas, you can get this book off Dogwise, Amazon, or Audible!
