How Often Should My Dog Be Walked During the Workday?

One of the most common questions pet parents ask is: How often should my dog be walked during the workday? The answer depends on a dog’s age, health, energy level, and routine, but there are clear guidelines that can help families make the best choice. While dogs are adaptable, they aren’t built to go long stretches without movement, mental stimulation, or a chance to relieve themselves.

The General Rule: At Least One Midday Walk

puppy walking in Katy, TX backyard - How Often Should My Dog Be Walked During the Workday?

For most adult dogs, at least one midday walk during the workday is strongly recommended. Veterinary behaviorists note that dogs typically need a bathroom break every 4–6 hours, and many struggle to remain comfortable for a full workday without relief.

A midday walk provides more than a quick potty break. It offers physical exercise, scent enrichment, and mental stimulation, all of which help reduce boredom and stress. Dogs who receive a midday walk are often calmer, more relaxed, and less likely to engage in destructive behaviors until their families come home.

Puppies and Senior Dogs Need More Frequent Breaks

Puppies almost always need multiple (often shorter) daytime visits. Young dogs have smaller bladders, developing muscles, and high energy levels. Depending on age, puppies may need a potty break every 2–4 hours to support house training and healthy development.

Senior dogs can also benefit from more frequent walks, though for different reasons. Aging dogs may have reduced bladder control, arthritis, or other medical conditions that make long periods of inactivity uncomfortable. Shorter, gentle walks spaced throughout the day can improve mobility and overall quality of life. They also prevent dribbling and accidents.

High-Energy and Working Breeds May Also Need More

Some dogs simply need more movement. High-energy breeds, young adults, and dogs bred for work or sport often benefit from a rigorous walk or two during the workday. Without adequate outlets, these dogs may develop frustration, vocalization, or anxious behaviors. They may also be destructive, taking out their frustration on your furniture, shoes, or even drywall! (Yes, a friend has a Golden Retriever puppy that ate through the drywall.)

Crated Dogs Need a Break Too

Dogs who are crated while their families are at work often need walks to break up the time spent inside their crate. While crates are a safe and appropriate management tool, keeping dogs in a crate for extended periods without a break can lead to physical discomfort, increased stress, and pent-up energy.

Veterinary behavior guidelines generally recommend ensuring dogs have regular opportunities to move, relieve themselves, and engage with their environment when families rely on crates while away. A midday walk provides instant relief, helps prevent accidents, and supports better emotional regulation. They make crate time much more comfortable and humane.

Leaving dogs in a crate too long is a sure-fire way to scare your dog away from their crate. Midday walks help establish a positive association with the crate, as they won’t associate it with discomfort or boredom.

Why Consistency Matters

Dogs thrive on routine. Regularly scheduled walks help regulate digestion, energy levels, and stress hormones. According to canine behavior research, predictable daily exercise supports emotional balance and helps dogs settle more easily during rest periods.

Skipping walks or relying solely on a fenced yard often leaves dogs under-stimulated. Walking engages the brain through sensory exploration and exercise. It’s fun for dogs and good for their bodies!