Can my dog be healthy with just two walks a day? Ideal schedule?

Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! How many times he needs to be walked outside depends on the dog. If once a day works for him and he is at a healthy weight then that is fine. If you think he may need to lose some weight then more frequent walks such as twice or three times a day would be better. Best of luck!

Hi, thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! Alley is adorable! I think it is nice to have somewhat of a schedule. I think dogs are less anxious when there is a predictable routine. For example, when you are off work those are the park days/hikes/extra long walks. Work weeks vary from a few days a week of doggie daycare to quick walks after work. I wouldn't get too wrapped up in the schedule being strictly set because that is impossible. Keep feeding and walking schedules strict and the special exercise a bit flexible. I hope this helps and you are a great dog owner!

Great question. I recommend taking them out to potty first thing. Then feed them when you eat breakfast. Let them rest at least a half hour to digest their food then take them for a walk. My dogs have access to a fenced yard all day but they love their morning and evening walks to check out what going on in the neighborhood. Let them rest when you get home. As far as training goes general obedience training helps with manners, makes them easier to walk and better companions. Taking a group obedience class is fun and you would get to work one on one. When you work on sit, down, stay, and heel at home you will make more progress working with one dog at a time with the other one not in the training area. They can play outside and inside during the day. Then I recommend another walk late afternoon or early evening. I’d feed them dinner before you eat and keep them inside and calm while digesting their food. Enjoying time with them inside during the evening is good, then one last trip outside to potty before bed. Dogs and people both love a daily routine so adjust this to fit in with your personal schedule and activities. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach to help you care for your dogs.

This can vary depending on the dog, their healthy status and if it’s a walk for exercise or if you are walking them to use the bathroom (like if you didn’t have a yard). To use the bathroom, dogs should have 5 or more opportunities a day for a potty break. Otherwise a walk once or twice a day for exercise is normal. Older dogs or dogs with health conditions need to be careful not to over do it. If your pet falls in this catagory, I recommend to call your vet as they are familiar with Fatboy and can tell you how much is too much. A healthy dog with no concerns should be fine. Keep in mind that dogs get out of shape just like humans so start slow and gradually build up the stamina. I hope this is helpful and please feel free to post any additional questions.

As long as Bruno is eating a healthy diet and is not eating too much (is maintaining a healthy weight) and you are able to get him out for a walk at least 3 times a week for 30 minutes or so, I don't see any reason to fear he will die early due to this walk routine. I hope that answers your question! Thank you for asking Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach!

Hi there! I actually think that this sounds like a pretty great schedule for Brody - kudos to you for planning things out so well for him! :) His daycare days should give him plenty of social interaction and exercise, and I think that the walks and dog park trips on the days that he stays home are perfect. I know a lot of dogs who would be very envious of such a great life - Brody is a very lucky guy! Keep up the good work.

Hi, thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! If the dogs are not in shape I would start off on short walks multiple times per day to work up their tolerance. There is no formula per se as all dogs athletic abilities and desire to walk and run are different. If you are looking for a running partner start off walking and then a slow jog and slowly increase your distance. I think it is fair to say most dogs should get 2 walks per day. I hope this helps and good luck!