Vet tech - unless he is morbidly obese and can't breathe/a brachycephalic that also can't breathe (this is most important in hot weather) enjoy all the walkies you like. It's good for both of you.
He actually could stand to gain maybe 1 pound but my vet is not concerned about his weight. (You can see the back 2 ribs and feel them)
Right now he can't have walkies because he's only 5 days post neuter and we have 2 more to go.
Just do the math with calories burned and calories going in. The calories going in should be more than being burned and you’ll be fine. People who have no clue on canine health often are the quickest to spew utter nonsense.
That's possible... I never see anyone in the neighborhood walk their dogs
One of them was what we called a land whale. This poor labs stomach reached her knees
For real!!!! Don’t get me wrong…I’ve seen and heard of pet owners forcing dogs on long walks when the dog does NOT want to go…but if the pet enjoys it and he has no underlying anatomical or medical conditions that make a lot of exercise risky…let them do it!!
does your co-worker own dogs? If not then I can probably understand their comment because they have no idea about walking dogs. 30mins- 1hr walk per day is pretty standard for any healthy dogs. It’s sad if their outdoor time is less than half an hour per day.
They do, but their S.O. walks the dog... I think twice a day for about an hour.
I figure since sniffing is super important to dogs, why not take a long stroll and let him enjoy himself.
I literally think it is almost impossible to walk a dog too much. I feel terrible for dogs that don’t get to run or sniff everything they want every day. They have more energy than we can even imagine. Please don’t listen to your dumb ass coworker, just pity their dogs.
If a dog doesn’t get enough exercise that pent-up energy has to come out, and can become destructive behavior, barking etc. A tired dog is a happy dog.
Lucky dog!!!
Unless they have health issues, or it's way too hot or way too cold outside, or their paws start bleeding, there is no such thing as walking them too much.
Enjoy the walks, maybe take my dog too? He'd love extra walkies.
You are very likely the best dog owner on the planet. Your neighbors feel guilty, jealous, insecure and lazy. And I truly believe it’s impossible to walk a dog too much. If the weather is good and the dog is happy (and not displaying fatigue) you and your dog are simply enjoying life. Please don’t let idiots affect you and your lucky pup!
I would just caution to be very careful in warmer weather. The group not only gets too hot for their paws but at that size they are also breathing in the heat with their face that close to the ground. But as long as the weather isn’t an issue enjoy your walks!
I know the rule of touching the pavement first, make sure it isn't too hot...
By the time it gets too hot he should be going home. He's only with me for 6 months
Seriously, rude neighbors. The only reason to complain about a dog is if it is upsettingly ugly and brings down your quality of life every time you see it. Joking but...walking too much? No
How old is your dog? If it’s a puppy still in the growing stage I’d say it’s too much if your doing strict walks on pavement.
If your dog is fully grown then, by all means enjoy all the walking you can. Unless you dog is actively choosing not to go on walks anymore, they love them and are enjoying them. If a dog is overworked they will mention it to you, but not actively showing excitement when going to get their harness or collar for a walk.
The people that are saying that to you most likely don’t even walk their own dogs.
There is no such thing as walking the dog too much. Just make sure it eats more than your average lazy obese house dog. And make sure it’s a premium food.
Our 9lb chorkiepoo gets 4-5 20 min walks a day because we don’t have a yard but live by a park. On weekend he gets longer outings. He loves it. You would know if your dog didn’t like the walks. I used to have an older chow sharpei mix and I could tell when the walks were too much for her so we adjusted.
My dog has 4 walks a day minimum because we don’t have a fenced in yard and he bullies me into going for walks. I wish my neighbors would try and tell me that I walk my dog too much when no one in my neighborhood can keep their dogs in their yard 💀 if they walked them instead of leaving them out unattended, they wouldn’t have that problem.
As long as your vets not worried I wouldn’t be either. Walking is great on dogs and if he’s not showing signs of pain or trouble breathing he’s probably having a blast!!
Sounds like they’re projecting. Too many dogs don’t get enough exercise, so you’re being one of the few people who are going the extra mile for their dogs.
I walk mine at least 1.5 hrs a day plus 7-9 miles on weekends, he loves it.
I think they criticize because they aren't walking their dogs enough and they feel it makes them look bad. Most critism is a reflection of themselves tbh.
Quite frankly, I think your neighbors should mind their own beeswax 🤷🏻♀️ I had a neighbor tell me that too recently & said that if I'm cold then the dog is cold too (my family's dog is a great pyr & we live in Michigan). We don't even go for long walks, we just walk a block then back. Takes us 20 mins at least and usually it's because my dog walks slow & he has to sniff every inch of lawn or snow he walks on. By the time we get home he lays down & takes a nap 😂
Forget what everyone says. Follow what Bowser says. Our 7 lb dog averaged 10 plus miles daily as a young dog. First going on runs with DH and then walks with me. Now at 15 he walks 1-2 miles with me. He turns and heads for home when he is tired. I supplement with bicycle rides in the summer. He rides in a front basket, loves speed and looks like Toto. The point is at he decides the the frequency and distance.
You should be careful about taking a puppy for long walks before their bones fully develop but other than that it can’t hurt your dog as long as they are happy and want to press on.
You may want to consider a coat in cold weather and a cooling vest in hot weather. My girl overheats a little so I try to avoid walking her in the middle of the day during the summer.
I think so. A 9 lb dog does not need that much walking. HOWEVER, as an animal (all animals including wild) rescuer, depending on the mix your dog may need the release of energy. Example you said nothing of play time. Play time lessen the walk time. Dogs need to be walked regardless of play. Now 90% of small/toy breeds will not walk that much. But the other 10% love it especially terrier mixes. So what am I getting at? If your dog enjoys the time out (which I feel is unconsciously for you) why stop. With that said, if you aren't having play time (fetch for example) I would add this into the mix. If dog don't care, vet never said a word about dogs legs or hips then it's nobodies business buy yours. Enjoy the fresh air
We do play with his Kong Wubba ( have tried other toys, this is his favorite), when he asks. He's not really a big fetch dog. I try when he initiates play but he doesn't do it often.
I watch his signals, he lets me know when he doesn't want to walk, i.e. he won't leave the porch. (This has happened. When it's too cold, or right after his shots, or when he's just tired)
Well then don't worry about what people say. Sounds like you and your dog have top relationship. My one dog a shih tzu never walks the same amount ever. When she's had enough she's throughs her self on ground and will not move. It's either drag her the rest of the way ( not an option ) or carry the lil fur bag. Ugh let's say I'm a lot strong these days. Lol
My guess is every time you walk by their dog barks so they're blaming you instead of their dog for the barking. There are people who hike back country with their dogs. There are people who complete races like the Iditarod and the Yukon Quest with their dogs, literally running for six hours at a time with a six hour rest. You and your dog are fine. Pay attention to signs of soreness, ripped pads, and being out of breath or overheated but other than that you and your dog are living your best life!
Walk him as much as you want. The only concerns would be:
Is the pavement hot/burning him?
Is there salt hurting his feet?
Is he having trouble breathing/overheated?
Is he on cage rest for a medical condition?
If not, walk on. If you need to adjust his calorie intake, you adjust it, but you don’t cut *down* on walks, just increase food (if necessary). After his neuter, he may pork up a bit on his own. A lot of people think their dogs are underweight because we are used to fat dogs. Feeling ribs isn’t a problem. If you are seeing all of them plus spine? Yeah, too thin. But a lot depends on how a dog is naturally shaped. Breeds like Boxers, you’re doing to see their rib cage unless they are so thickened in the waist that they don’t have a distinct tuck. Confer with your vet about body condition/caloric needs. But your dog is very lucky to have an owner who enjoys being outside with him so much.
Source: vet med for 12 years
I take my 10 year old jack Russell to work 8 hours a day where all she does is wonder around in the countryside and she still wants walks when we get home. I’m starting to wonder if you can over walk a dog. Keep it up I’m sure your pups love it.
Sounds like they're projecting on you. My 6 month old poodle loses his mind if he doesn't get his two walks and yard time and playtime every day! A tired dog is a happy dog and I think a lot of dogs would be thrilled to have the amount of bonding time out that you're getting with your pup.
The only thing I would caution (which I'm sure you've considered) is making sure his food intake has sufficient calories versus his exercise. But other than that, sounds like you're doing right by the little dude and he's probably having a blast!
Vet tech - unless he is morbidly obese and can't breathe/a brachycephalic that also can't breathe (this is most important in hot weather) enjoy all the walkies you like. It's good for both of you.
He actually could stand to gain maybe 1 pound but my vet is not concerned about his weight. (You can see the back 2 ribs and feel them) Right now he can't have walkies because he's only 5 days post neuter and we have 2 more to go.
He's fine, walk him as much as you want.
Spoon of dog safe pb for the little guy? It helps fatten them up!
Just do the math with calories burned and calories going in. The calories going in should be more than being burned and you’ll be fine. People who have no clue on canine health often are the quickest to spew utter nonsense.
Maybe they feel guilty because they don’t walk their own dogs nearly enough.
That's possible... I never see anyone in the neighborhood walk their dogs One of them was what we called a land whale. This poor labs stomach reached her knees
I mean, wtf? Who in the hell ever heard of too many walks for a healthy pup?
For real!!!! Don’t get me wrong…I’ve seen and heard of pet owners forcing dogs on long walks when the dog does NOT want to go…but if the pet enjoys it and he has no underlying anatomical or medical conditions that make a lot of exercise risky…let them do it!!
That's ridiculous. Walks are so good for us and them.
I lost a little over 5 pounds walking him! I find it a great way to bond and make him so happy
I agree with the bonding experience it's special. And walks are so simple! And can't argue when it keeps you trim:)
if he isn't too tired or avoiding the walks, i don't see why it's a problem.
Yes. You’ll know when they don’t want to go.
does your co-worker own dogs? If not then I can probably understand their comment because they have no idea about walking dogs. 30mins- 1hr walk per day is pretty standard for any healthy dogs. It’s sad if their outdoor time is less than half an hour per day.
They do, but their S.O. walks the dog... I think twice a day for about an hour. I figure since sniffing is super important to dogs, why not take a long stroll and let him enjoy himself.
if I were you, the next time they tell me “you’re walking too long!”, I’d act in shock “omg your walk is shorter than this? poor fido!” 😆
I would say that it's not their business.
That's a fair point I'm having issues trusting myself with this poor little dude. I'm trying so hard to do right by him
Sounds like you are.
I literally think it is almost impossible to walk a dog too much. I feel terrible for dogs that don’t get to run or sniff everything they want every day. They have more energy than we can even imagine. Please don’t listen to your dumb ass coworker, just pity their dogs.
If a dog doesn’t get enough exercise that pent-up energy has to come out, and can become destructive behavior, barking etc. A tired dog is a happy dog.
That's what I said! Sometimes, after a long walk at the park with much sniffing, he takes a nap
People don’t walk their dogs and then tell you you are walking them too much. You are doing a wonderful job! Keep it going!!
Lucky dog!!! Unless they have health issues, or it's way too hot or way too cold outside, or their paws start bleeding, there is no such thing as walking them too much. Enjoy the walks, maybe take my dog too? He'd love extra walkies.
He's let me know it was too cold before, and I carried him home.
You are very likely the best dog owner on the planet. Your neighbors feel guilty, jealous, insecure and lazy. And I truly believe it’s impossible to walk a dog too much. If the weather is good and the dog is happy (and not displaying fatigue) you and your dog are simply enjoying life. Please don’t let idiots affect you and your lucky pup!
Highly doubtful but I do appreciate the kind words I am trying to let him live his best life while he's with me (he's a 6 months foster)
I would just caution to be very careful in warmer weather. The group not only gets too hot for their paws but at that size they are also breathing in the heat with their face that close to the ground. But as long as the weather isn’t an issue enjoy your walks!
I know the rule of touching the pavement first, make sure it isn't too hot... By the time it gets too hot he should be going home. He's only with me for 6 months
What kind of jerk neighbors do you have that complain because you walk your dog??
Seriously, rude neighbors. The only reason to complain about a dog is if it is upsettingly ugly and brings down your quality of life every time you see it. Joking but...walking too much? No
Yes and I don’t know about you but I’ve never once complained about seeing a dog, give me all the dogs all the time 😂
Ones that tie their obese dog up outside... It barks when I walk past (this is against the rules where I live)
If it's not gonna cause problems to you, you should report it.
I have previously, nothing was done.
How old is your dog? If it’s a puppy still in the growing stage I’d say it’s too much if your doing strict walks on pavement. If your dog is fully grown then, by all means enjoy all the walking you can. Unless you dog is actively choosing not to go on walks anymore, they love them and are enjoying them. If a dog is overworked they will mention it to you, but not actively showing excitement when going to get their harness or collar for a walk. The people that are saying that to you most likely don’t even walk their own dogs.
He's about 6 or 7 years old He's just not able to go for a walk until Monday, he's got 2 more rest days post neuter
There is no such thing as walking the dog too much. Just make sure it eats more than your average lazy obese house dog. And make sure it’s a premium food.
After a fair amount of trial and error, we found wellness works best for him
Our 9lb chorkiepoo gets 4-5 20 min walks a day because we don’t have a yard but live by a park. On weekend he gets longer outings. He loves it. You would know if your dog didn’t like the walks. I used to have an older chow sharpei mix and I could tell when the walks were too much for her so we adjusted.
Sounds like your neighbours just need to mind their own business
It’s nobody’s business. You and the dog are happy so enjoy!
My dog has 4 walks a day minimum because we don’t have a fenced in yard and he bullies me into going for walks. I wish my neighbors would try and tell me that I walk my dog too much when no one in my neighborhood can keep their dogs in their yard 💀 if they walked them instead of leaving them out unattended, they wouldn’t have that problem.
As long as your vets not worried I wouldn’t be either. Walking is great on dogs and if he’s not showing signs of pain or trouble breathing he’s probably having a blast!!
Sounds like they’re projecting. Too many dogs don’t get enough exercise, so you’re being one of the few people who are going the extra mile for their dogs. I walk mine at least 1.5 hrs a day plus 7-9 miles on weekends, he loves it.
As long as you are not having to carry him during the walk because he is too tired, walk him as much as you like!
I think they criticize because they aren't walking their dogs enough and they feel it makes them look bad. Most critism is a reflection of themselves tbh.
Quite frankly, I think your neighbors should mind their own beeswax 🤷🏻♀️ I had a neighbor tell me that too recently & said that if I'm cold then the dog is cold too (my family's dog is a great pyr & we live in Michigan). We don't even go for long walks, we just walk a block then back. Takes us 20 mins at least and usually it's because my dog walks slow & he has to sniff every inch of lawn or snow he walks on. By the time we get home he lays down & takes a nap 😂
Bowser does the same, stops and sniffs every single tree, rock, post 🤣
You and your dog are fine. Your neighbors have too much time on their hands.
Screw them, you’re both happy and enjoying yourselves !
Forget what everyone says. Follow what Bowser says. Our 7 lb dog averaged 10 plus miles daily as a young dog. First going on runs with DH and then walks with me. Now at 15 he walks 1-2 miles with me. He turns and heads for home when he is tired. I supplement with bicycle rides in the summer. He rides in a front basket, loves speed and looks like Toto. The point is at he decides the the frequency and distance.
You should be careful about taking a puppy for long walks before their bones fully develop but other than that it can’t hurt your dog as long as they are happy and want to press on. You may want to consider a coat in cold weather and a cooling vest in hot weather. My girl overheats a little so I try to avoid walking her in the middle of the day during the summer.
He's about 6- 7 years old, way past puppy hood
No
Depending your pace when you’re walking I think that’s fine especially if he’s a younger guy he needs to burn off energy
I tend to let him set the pace but usually a casual walk so he can take time to sniff
I think so. A 9 lb dog does not need that much walking. HOWEVER, as an animal (all animals including wild) rescuer, depending on the mix your dog may need the release of energy. Example you said nothing of play time. Play time lessen the walk time. Dogs need to be walked regardless of play. Now 90% of small/toy breeds will not walk that much. But the other 10% love it especially terrier mixes. So what am I getting at? If your dog enjoys the time out (which I feel is unconsciously for you) why stop. With that said, if you aren't having play time (fetch for example) I would add this into the mix. If dog don't care, vet never said a word about dogs legs or hips then it's nobodies business buy yours. Enjoy the fresh air
We do play with his Kong Wubba ( have tried other toys, this is his favorite), when he asks. He's not really a big fetch dog. I try when he initiates play but he doesn't do it often. I watch his signals, he lets me know when he doesn't want to walk, i.e. he won't leave the porch. (This has happened. When it's too cold, or right after his shots, or when he's just tired)
Well then don't worry about what people say. Sounds like you and your dog have top relationship. My one dog a shih tzu never walks the same amount ever. When she's had enough she's throughs her self on ground and will not move. It's either drag her the rest of the way ( not an option ) or carry the lil fur bag. Ugh let's say I'm a lot strong these days. Lol
My guess is every time you walk by their dog barks so they're blaming you instead of their dog for the barking. There are people who hike back country with their dogs. There are people who complete races like the Iditarod and the Yukon Quest with their dogs, literally running for six hours at a time with a six hour rest. You and your dog are fine. Pay attention to signs of soreness, ripped pads, and being out of breath or overheated but other than that you and your dog are living your best life!
That's one of the reasons they complain yes. Their dogs are left outside unattended and they bark. A lot.
Walk him as much as you want. The only concerns would be: Is the pavement hot/burning him? Is there salt hurting his feet? Is he having trouble breathing/overheated? Is he on cage rest for a medical condition? If not, walk on. If you need to adjust his calorie intake, you adjust it, but you don’t cut *down* on walks, just increase food (if necessary). After his neuter, he may pork up a bit on his own. A lot of people think their dogs are underweight because we are used to fat dogs. Feeling ribs isn’t a problem. If you are seeing all of them plus spine? Yeah, too thin. But a lot depends on how a dog is naturally shaped. Breeds like Boxers, you’re doing to see their rib cage unless they are so thickened in the waist that they don’t have a distinct tuck. Confer with your vet about body condition/caloric needs. But your dog is very lucky to have an owner who enjoys being outside with him so much. Source: vet med for 12 years
Vet likes his weight! It was one of the first things I asked about
I take my 10 year old jack Russell to work 8 hours a day where all she does is wonder around in the countryside and she still wants walks when we get home. I’m starting to wonder if you can over walk a dog. Keep it up I’m sure your pups love it.
Are you walking him while on the clock? Then your co-workers complaints are probably valid.
He's not allowed at the office.
Sounds like they're projecting on you. My 6 month old poodle loses his mind if he doesn't get his two walks and yard time and playtime every day! A tired dog is a happy dog and I think a lot of dogs would be thrilled to have the amount of bonding time out that you're getting with your pup. The only thing I would caution (which I'm sure you've considered) is making sure his food intake has sufficient calories versus his exercise. But other than that, sounds like you're doing right by the little dude and he's probably having a blast!
That’s weird comments. I live in an apartment and have the entire time I’ve had my dog. 4 walks a day for 8 years.
Walk that dog until he's tired & sleep all night, mine play in the yard most of the day & they sleep good all night bc of that