Welcoming a new puppy into your life is an incredible experience that starts a relationship like no other. As you get to know your newest furry family member, it’s essential to tire them out, not only to help them develop strength but to stimulate their brains as well. As a new pet parent, it’s normal to have many questions. Today, we’ll take a look at how much playtime your puppy really needs to grow and develop safely.
Why Does My Puppy Need Playtime?
Playtime isn’t just a fun activity to bond with your pooch. Hundreds of benefits can last your pup a lifetime with daily, active play!
Exercise: As puppies grow into adult dogs, they need a solid foundation to build on. Plenty of exercise helps your furbaby build strength and maintain their health. These are two critical habits that, when learned early, can set your pup up for lifelong health success.
Socialization: Playing with other pups and meeting their parents is another aspect of playtime that’ll help your dog learn skills fr their entire life. Training and group lessons can be a great way to burn off some energy, get your dog comfortable socializing with other animals, and learn how to behave around them.
Mental Health: Puppies are notorious for being bundles of energy. Tiring them out with playtime helps pups avoid destructive behaviors and improve their mental health. Keep mental stimulation a top priority with a variety of enrichment games and puzzles.
No matter the reason you choose to play with your pup, it’s essential to understand your pet’s specific needs to avoid injury or other issues.
Exercise Needs for Breed Groups
Each dog breed has their own exercise needs, just like humans do! Age is another determining factor that will change your pup’s playtime habits as they get older. However, as a puppy, it’s essential to monitor their playtime closely to avoid injury or discomfort. Use this guide to determine the best way to schedule playtime with Fido.
Toy: 30-60 minutes per day, in split sessions.
Examples: Pug, Shih Tzu, Bulldog
Non-Sporting: 30-60 min per day, in split sessions.
Examples: Bichon Frise, Boston Terrier, French Bulldog
Hound: 60-90 minutes per day, in split sessions.
Examples: Beagle, Basset Hound
Terrier: 60-90 minutes per day, in split sessions.
Examples: Border Terrier, Australian Terrier
Herding: 1.5-2 hours per day, in split sessions.
Examples: Australian Shepherd, Bearded Collie
Working: 1.5-2 hours per day, in split sessions.
Examples: Bernese Mountain Dog, Boxer, Cane Corso
Sporting: 1.5-2 hours per day, in split sessions.
Examples: Lab, Border Collie, German Shepherd
Best Ways to Play with your Pup
There are a variety of options for pup playtime, with certain types better suited for specific breeds, personality types, age, and even weather! Whether your puppy is in their sleepy phase or a little furball of energy, finding their favorite ways to play will set them up for lifelong happiness and health.
There are a few ways to play with Fido, with location being a major determining factor. Before picking a game or toy to play with, decide whether playtime will be outdoors or indoors, and whether it will be in public or at home! Allow your pup’s mood to determine where and how you play. Doing so will help you learn your furry friend’s likes and dislikes, as well as their temperament as they grow into their personality! This playtime guide will help you determine the best action play for playtime!
After Playtime Needs
Once your puppy has enjoyed a fun, stimulating play session, there are a few crucial steps to take to support their health, comfort, and overall development. Just like us, puppies need to rehydrate after physical activity. Always offer fresh, clean water immediately after playtime. Younger pups may forget to drink on their own because they’re so excited or distracted, so make water breaks a consistent part of your play routine.
Puppies absorb the world like sponges. After socializing, learning, and exploring, they may need quiet time to rest their minds. Offer a calm space with a cozy bed or crate where they can nap undisturbed. This decompression time is important for healthy emotional development. Raising a puppy is one of life’s most joyful adventures. By providing the right amount of playtime, you’re setting the stage for a lifetime of confidence, good behavior, and overall well-being.
As your pup develops, stay observant and flexible. Their needs will evolve, and so will your play routines. Most importantly, enjoy the journey. Every game of fetch, every puzzle toy, and every silly zoomie moment builds the foundation of a strong, loving relationship that will bring you both years of happiness.
Need training for your puppy? Let Sit Means Sit North Idaho show you the ropes!