My neighbor can't walk my Akita puppy. Is backyard exercise enough?

Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! I understand your concern. If you are able to walk him at least 4 times a day then he should be ok. You could consider taking him to the dog park as well and just letting him run as that would also help tremendously. That honestly should be enough for exercise and he could be happy at a smaller apartment as long as he continues to be exercised like that. Good luck and have a great day! I think he will be ok.

No, it's not idea that these dogs never go for a walk. Daily exercise is very important, especially for labs, and they should be getting walks at least twice a day. Unfortunately, you cannot make your neighbor walk them. As for never cleaning up, it's gross but again you can't make your neighbor clean the area.

That's not a stupid question! It's great that your dogs get so much exercise! They will likely take enough breaks during the day that they will not over exert themselves, but there are some things that you can do to help keep them happy and safe. As you mentioned, make sure they always have fresh water available. Make sure they have shelter to protect them from the elements, secure fencing to help prevent them from getting lost, that they are microchipped and wearing identification tags in case they get out, and do not leave them outside during extreme heat, cold, or emergency situations. I also recommend speaking to your veterinarian about having them neutered as soon as possible, as this can help reduce behaviours associated with the instinct to mate (such as humping, urine marking, aggression and roaming away from home) and help keep them safe.

Moves are stressful for everyone. Some things you can do to help Jimmy transition are to keep him busy and try to create and stick to a schedule. The schedule helps because it creates routines and Jimmy will know what is going to happen during the day, even in new surroundings. If you don't already have one, I would establish one before you move and try to stick to it during the transition. Giving Jimmy as much exercise as you can manage will be helpful, Getting out for even short walks frequently would be good, but also getting him out for a good walk or dog park for a run would be ideal. Utilize walks as much as you can to burn off energy. Walking generally isn't enough for strong breeds. Adding obedience, getting him to jump up on things (like benches and walls) will help drain his energy more. If you're not feeling up for a walk due to your health try to keep him busy inside with mental games. Lots of chews, enrichment toys like food dispensers, or even hiding treats and food around the house and having him search will help his mental stimulation and keep him busy. This will reduce the need to as much exercise temporarily, reduce stress and keep him out of trouble. I'd also recommend checking out a day care 1 day a week if he is good with out other dogs, and if your budget allows the dog walker would be very helpful too.

You are doing a good job so far. I would go to puppy classes and then a group obedience class or two when he’s six month old or so. The more training you do the better behaved dog you will have. This is a large and head strong breed so I’m glad you are taking the socialization and training seriously. In addition I would have it neutered by eight months to prevent any change of behavior due to adult hormones. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach to help you care for your dog.

Sure there are lots of activities, but every dog has a different preference in what they enjoy. You can certainly try tug the rope, fetch, just running after you, teaching him new tricks (which generally gets him moving) or I would just put him on a leash and walk him back and forth. However, walking is really the best method because he can explore the neighborhood, which is generally the most effective way to keep the pet interested and still moving. It is hard to balance life, school and a pet, but taking out 30 mins a day to walk your pet is a dedication most pet owners should have to really care for their pets health. It is a committment that will take your pet a long way. : ) Best of luck with Rex moving forward. Take care

Soska is a beautiful dog! Young dogs (and breeds like German shepherds) do tend to require more exercise so if you don't have time to walk Soska daily you can try to take her out to play ball or fetch daily. This will help give her exercise and mental stimulation but won't be as time consuming as a walk. You can also see if there are any dog walkers or doggy day cares in your area to help give Soska more exercise a few times a week. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! Best of luck to you and and Soska!