Safe Exercise for Dogs as the Weather Warms Up
Easing into exercise safely
Spring is the perfect time to enjoy more time outside with your dog. But before you head out on longer walks or ramp up your dog’s activity level, it's important to ease into exercise safely.
Avoid doing too much, too soon
Just like us, dogs need time to build up stamina after a less active winter. Start with shorter walks or gentle play sessions and build gradually.
Watch for signs of overheating
As temperatures rise, dogs can overheat quickly. Watch for excessive panting, drooling, or slowing down. Always carry water and try to walk during cooler parts of the day.
If you notice signs of overheating:
Stop exercise immediately.
Move your dog to a shaded or cool area
Offer small amounts of water
Wt their paws, ears, and tummy with cool (not cold) water.
Use a fan if available
Call your vet for further advice—heatstroke can become serious very quickly.
Choose dog-friendly surfaces
Tarmac and pavements can get hot quickly and cause sore paws. Stick to grassy areas or shaded woodland paths when possible.
Mix up the activities
Exercise doesn’t have to mean just walking! Try scent games, short training sessions, or gentle games of fetch. Scent games are a fantastic way to mentally stimulate your dog while giving them low-impact exercise. Dogs experience the world through their noses, and sniffing activates the part of their brain responsible for processing information—leaving them calmer and more satisfied.
Try this at home...
Hide a few of your dog’s favourite treats around the garden or house and encourage them to "find it." You can also try snuffle mats, puzzle feeders, or even hide-and-seek with toys. These games engage your dog’s natural instincts and are ideal on days when physical activity needs to be limited.
For older dogs or rainy days
Try gentle enrichment activities like treat-dispensing toys, nose work indoors, such as encouraging your dog to use their natural scenting ability to find hidden treats or objects. For example, hide a strong-smelling treat in one of several boxes and let your dog sniff out the right one – this can be a fun and tiring game, especially for senior dogs or wet weather days. Or a slow walk through the garden on a lead where they can sniff at their own pace.
A short training session using simple cues like 'sit' or 'paw' can also keep minds active without overexertion. Even five minutes of brain games can leave your dog feeling fulfilled and relaxed.
Need advice?
If your dog has an existing health condition or is older, chat with us about what kind of exercise is safest and most beneficial - we are here to help, get in touch!
Quick Tips: Safe Spring Exercise for Dogs
Start slow, especially if your dog has been less active over winter
Walk early or late to avoid midday heat
Bring water and take breaks often
Check the ground temperature before heading out
Always monitor your dog for signs of discomfort or overheating
If overheating occurs: stop, move to shade, offer water, cool with damp cloths, and call your vet