Do German Shepherds Need a Lot of Exercise? | Essential Guide for Owners

Do German Shepherds Need a Lot of Exercise?

German Shepherds are positive, intelligent, and active dogs who need a lot of mental and physical exercise to be happy. But how much exercise is necessary for them, really? In this blog, I’ll walk you through everything I’ve learned about keeping a German Shepherd properly exercised based on my experience and research.

How Much Exercise Does a German Shepherd Really Need?

From my own experience with my German Shepherd, I can tell you that they need a lot of exercise—probably more than many other dog breeds. German Shepherds are energetic worker dogs that have endless energy. An adult German Shepherd should exercise for almost two hours every day on average. This can be divided into three categories: running, walking, and mental exercises like puzzle games or training.

When my dog was a puppy, I was careful not to over-exercise him. For puppies, their joints are still developing, so how much exercise a German Shepherd puppy needs depends on their age. I followed the 5-minute rule—5 minutes of exercise for every month of their age, up to twice a day.

Your German Shepherd’s energy level can change as they become older. My German Shepherd was becoming older, but I found that he still need regular exercise to keep him from becoming bored and acting out.

Fun Exercises for German Shepherds: Keeping Them Active

I know it’s easy to fall into a routine of just walking your German Shepherd, but trust me, they need more variety to stay engaged. You might want to try some of these exercises for your German Shepherd:

• Running: If you love jogging, take your dog along! Shepherds are great runners, and it’s a fantastic way to burn their energy. Just make sure you ease into it, especially with younger dogs.
• Fetch and Frisbee: This is one of my favorites because it’s a mix of physical and mental exercise. It’s also a great way to bond with your dog.
• Hiking: German Shepherds love a good hike. I’ve taken mine to different trails, and the change in scenery really helps tire him out.
• Tug-of-War: A fun game indoors or outdoors, especially when the weather isn’t great for long walks.

German Shepherd Exercise by Age

As I mentioned earlier, your Shepherd’s exercise needs will change as they age. German Shepherd puppies are bundles of energy but need controlled exercise to protect their growing bones. Still, because they may slow down as they age, German Shepherds still need regular exercise and mental exercise to maintain strong muscles.

When my Shepherd hit his senior years, I noticed that while he wasn’t as eager for long runs, he still enjoyed leisurely walks and playing tug. Never forget to change the level of physical activity based on your dog’s age and health.

Meeting German Shepherd Exercise Requirements

It’s essential to meet your German Shepherd’s exercise requirements to keep them healthy and happy. If you don’t, you might notice unwanted behaviors like chewing, barking, or digging. I learned this the hard way when I did not go for walks for a few days. Out of a lack of interest my German Shepherd grew angry and even attempted to bite on things.

To avoid this, ensure you’re providing consistent exercise, and don’t forget mental stimulation. How to tire out a German Shepherd isn’t just about physical activity—it’s about keeping their brain busy too! Interactive toys, training sessions, and puzzle games work wonders.

Walking a German Shepherd: What to Know

I’ve heard many owners say, “My dog is too strong for me to walk!” German Shepherds are strong dogs, and without proper training, they can pull hard on the leash. Early training and the right equipment, like a no-pull harness, can help make walks more enjoyable for both of you.

How to Exercise Your German Shepherd Indoors

When the weather isn’t cooperating, indoor exercise becomes essential. If you’re like me and live in an area with unpredictable weather, you’ll need some ideas for indoor activities. Here are a few things that worked well for me:

• Treadmill walks: Yes, it sounds a bit extra, but my German Shepherd loves it! Just start slow and always supervise.
• Hide and seek: I love playing this game with my dog, and it keeps him mentally engaged.
• Training sessions: Spend some time teaching new tricks or practicing old ones. It’s great mental stimulation and strengthens your bond.

Avoiding Over-Exercising Your German Shepherd

While it’s essential to keep your dog active, over-exercising can lead to joint issues, especially in puppies. German Shepherds exercise needs are high, but always keep an eye on how much they’re doing. If you notice signs like limping, excessive panting, or reluctance to move, it’s time to scale back.

What If You Have an Old-Fashioned German Shepherd?

Older-style German Shepherds, often referred to as Old Fashion German Shepherds, might have slightly different energy levels compared to show-line Shepherds. I’ve noticed that some owners of these dogs report them being calmer and less energetic. However, their exercise requirements are still significant—just in a more moderate way.

German Shepherd Exercise Challenges

If you’re dealing with a particularly energetic Shepherd, it can sometimes feel overwhelming. You may be thinking, “My dog is too strong for me to walk” or “How do I keep up with this energy?” I’ve been there, and the key is consistency and training. Teaching your dog good leash manners and using tools like a harness can make walks much more enjoyable.

Wrapping It Up: Exercise Is Key to a Happy German Shepherd

At the end of the day, meeting your German Shepherd’s exercise requirements isn’t just about keeping them fit; it’s also about their overall happiness and well-being. Whether it’s through long walks, fun fetch sessions, or a hike in the woods, staying active together strengthens your bond and ensures a healthy life for your dog.

German Shepherds thrive when they have a job to do, so exercise is more than just a necessity—it’s an opportunity for them to use their intelligence and energy in positive ways. Just be sure to tailor their routine to their age, health, and individual needs.

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