How Long a Dog Walk Should You Book? A Guide for Pet Parents

You love your dog, and you want to make sure your dog gets the right amount of exercise and bathroom breaks. But figuring out how long a walk should be can be tricky! It all depends on your dog’s needs, your schedule, and if they need any extra care.

At The Right Fluff Pet Sitting, we’ve got you covered with three different walk options: Potty Break (25-30 minutes), Exercise Break (40-45 minutes), and Extended Break (about an hour). This guide will help you decide which one is best for your dog! Here are some guiding questions to consider before booking:

1. What’s the Goal of the Walk?

Every dog is different, so the length of the walk should match what you want to achieve. If your goal is…

• A Quick Bathroom Break:

  • Perfect for: Puppies learning to potty train, senior dogs, or dogs who just need a quick bathroom stop.

  • We recommend: Potty Break (25-30 minutes). This is just enough time for a potty trip and some sniffing around.

• Stretching Their Legs & Mental Stimulation:

  • Perfect for: Dogs who spend a lot of time inside and need a change of scenery.

  • We recommend: Exercise Break (40-45 minutes). This gives them a good walk to stay fit without getting too tired.

• High-Energy Dogs & Extra Exercise:

  • Perfect for: Active, young dogs, and breeds that need lots of exercise (like Huskies, Border Collies, or Labs).

  • We recommend: Extended Break (1 hour). This longer walk helps prevent boredom and keeps them from being destructive at home.

2. Consider How Long Your Dog Will Be Alone

• If your dog is alone for 4-6 hours, a Potty Break might be enough.

• If they’re alone for 8+ hours, an Exercise Break is better to keep them from getting bored and having accidents. 

• If they’re alone most of the day, an Extended Break gives them the attention and activity they need. Or consider two shorter walks spaced apart.

3. Factor in Your Dog’s Age, Breed, and Health

• Puppies and senior dogs often need shorter, more frequent walks (Potty Breaks are great).

• High-energy breeds need longer walks (Exercise or Extended Breaks).

• Breeds with short noses (like Pugs and Bulldogs) might not handle long walks, especially when it’s hot.

• Dogs with health problems might need slower, shorter walks, but they still need mental stimulation.

4. Does Your Dog Need Extra Care?

• If your dog needs food or medicine during the walk, a longer visit is best.

• If they need to get their paws wiped down after a walk, factor that in. (This is very popular with our dog owners who have allergies!)

• If they have a tricky harness or are wiggly, a longer walk makes sure they get enough time outside.

5. Home Setup & Entry Considerations

• If you live in an apartment with a concierge or a gated community, it might take extra time to get in. Booking a longer walk ensures your dog gets the full time they need.

• If you have more than one dog or other pets, a longer visit lets us give each pet individual attention.

6. Special Considerations for Weather & Seasonal Needs

• On hot days, shorter walks are better for dogs that get hot easily. But high-energy dogs might need longer walks in the cooler parts of the day.

• If it’s raining or snowing and your dog doesn’t like the wet, a Potty Break is good, with extra time to dry them off.

• Older dogs might need shorter, more frequent walks in the winter because they’re sensitive to the cold.

7. How Often Should You Book Walks?

• One walk a day is good for low-energy or older dogs.

• Two walks a day are great for active dogs or dogs home alone for long periods.

• Three walks a day are perfect for puppies, high-energy dogs, or owners with busy schedules.

Conclusion: The Right Walk for Your Dog

Choosing the right walk length depends on your dog’s needs, your schedule, and any extra care they need. At The Right Fluff Pet Sitting, we’re here to help your pup stay happy and healthy.

Not sure which walk is best? Contact us today, and we’ll help you find the perfect fit!

The Right Fluff Pet Sitting offers professional, loving, and reliable dog walking and cat sitting services in Montgomery County, MD. We serve dog and cat owners across Rockville, Bethesda, Potomac, Chevy Chase, Silver Spring, Gaithersburg/Germantown and surrounding communities.

New clients can get started and book dog walking or pet sitting services using this form. Existing clients can log into their account to request services using this link. 

More information on our pet care services can be found on our website or by contacting us by email at info@rightfluff.com or by calling us at 240-447-9523 to learn more.