German Shepherds are known for their intelligence, loyalty, and striking appearance, but beneath that majestic coat lies a high-energy working dog that needs plenty of exercise to thrive. If you’re a proud owner of a German Shepherd or considering bringing one into your life, understanding their exercise requirements is crucial for their physical and mental well-being. Let’s dive into the world of German Shepherd exercise and discover how to keep your furry friend happy, healthy, and well-behaved.
Why Exercise Matters for German Shepherds
German Shepherds were originally bred for herding livestock, a job that required them to be active and alert for long hours. Today, even if your German Shepherd is a beloved family pet, their instincts still crave physical and mental stimulation. Adequate exercise helps prevent boredom, reduces the likelihood of destructive behaviors, and keeps them in tip-top shape. Without enough activity, German Shepherds can become restless, anxious, and even develop behavioral problems.
How Much Exercise Does a German Shepherd Need?
Generally, German Shepherds need between 60 and 120 minutes of physical and mental exercise daily. Some may need between 40 minutes and three hours of exercise each day. The amount of exercise a German Shepherd needs varies depending on their age, health, and individual energy levels. It’s essential to tailor their exercise routine to meet their specific needs.
Exercise Needs by Age:
- Puppies: German Shepherd puppies need exercise to grow big and strong, but they don’t have the stamina of adult German Shepherds. A 5-month-old German Shepherd should have around 25 minutes of exercise each day, while an 8-month-old can handle about 40 minutes. A 10-month-old German Shepherd should be able to exercise for 50 minutes daily. Puppies should be given several short walks throughout the day, with playtime and training exercises included.
- Adults: Adult German Shepherds require a variety of exercises in their routine, including running and sprinting. Aim for about 90 minutes of walking time, which usually comes to a distance of 5-8 miles.
- Seniors: Senior German Shepherds don’t have as much stamina as they used to, so ensure they have plenty of breaks.
Our vets recommend spreading exercise across the day rather than trying to do two hours all in one go.
Types of Exercise for German Shepherds
To keep your German Shepherd happy and engaged, incorporate a variety of exercises into their daily routine:
- Daily Walks: Walking is an essential part of a German Shepherd’s exercise routine and helps maintain their cardiovascular health. Aim for at least two hours of walking time each day, splitting the time into two one-hour walking sessions.
- Running and Sprinting: Running and sprinting are important in any exercise routine for adult German Shepherds. This gets your dog’s heart pumping.
- Agility Training: Agility training is an excellent exercise option for high-energy dog breeds like the German Shepherd, as it provides them with the physical and mental stimulation they need. Agility courses are great for teaching your pup commands, increasing coordination and balance, and providing mental stimulation.
- Swimming: Swimming is a beneficial activity for German Shepherds, as it helps build muscle and can be done in various ways.
- Tug-of-War: Playing tug-of-war will help your Shepherd build up their front leg muscles. This game also pairs great with obedience training– include “drop it” commands occasionally to help keep your German Shepherd thinking on their toes and build their confidence!
- Doggy Squats: Dog squats can build hip strength and improve stamina for longer walks and are nice obedience exercises too. To do this exercise, instruct your German Shepherd to sit down and then stand up repeatedly.
- Hiking: Hiking is a top-notch activity to fulfill their physical and mental stimulation requirements.
- Hide and Seek: Playing hide and seek is excellent for German Shepherds because the process of searching for their human is mentally stimulating.
- Obedience Training: Mental exercises such as obedience training and interactive games can also help stimulate your dog mentally.
What Happens If a German Shepherd Doesn’t Get Enough Exercise?
Lack of exercise and stimulation can cause behavioural problems in any breed. This is why consistency is key when it comes to exercising your German Shepherd. Skipping exercise for a day or two won’t have a major impact, but it’s best to maintain a regular exercise routine to keep your dog healthy and happy.
Listen to Your Dog
Pay attention to your German Shepherd’s body language and energy levels. If they seem tired or are panting excessively, it’s time to slow down and take a break. Always provide plenty of water, especially during warm weather.
A Happy and Healthy German Shepherd
By providing your German Shepherd with the right amount and type of exercise, you’re setting them up for a long, happy, and healthy life. Remember, exercise is not just about physical health; it’s also about mental stimulation and strengthening the bond between you and your loyal companion. So get out there, explore the world together, and unleash the full potential of your amazing German Shepherd!