The Best Time of Day To Walk Your Dog, According to a Veterinarian

Whether it's because it's raining outside, or you've just got so much else to do which takes precedence, a dog walk isn't always the most important part of a person's day. However, for the dog, that is likely to be their favorite time—apart from when they're eating, of course.

There are days when you delay the walk for as long as possible, until the dog is dancing around the house and practically begging to go out. As much as you may tell yourself that the dog can be walked whenever you like, veterinarian Dr. Jacqueline Brister suggests that they should only go out at certain times of day.

Temperature is a big factor in deciding when to walk the dog, as Brister, from Louisiana, told Newsweek: "Timing of the walk, as well as foot protection, are things to think about before heading out. When temperatures are very high or very low, consider the temperature of the pavement and a dog's paws."

When deciding when to walk the dog, be that first thing in the morning, or last thing before bed, it's always best to have a solid routine that you can stick to. The American Kennel Club (AKC) explains that dogs thrive off consistency and knowing what to expect, so having a routine helps build their confidence.

The regularity and length of the walk will vary, depending on the dog's age and breed. But the AKC encourages owners to start with at least a 15-minute walk for adult dogs, and if the dog is comfortable with that, the length can be increased gradually.

Walks are a great way for dogs to explore the world around them and to socialize, but owners should ensure their dog is comfortable throughout, according to the AKC.

Always Think About the Outside Temperature

Going for a walk in the middle of the afternoon might help to break the day up, but it can also put the dog at risk. Brister encourages owners to consider walking the dog in the morning or evening, when the temperature is cooler and less exhausting.

You may think that only pertains to long-haired dogs which can easily overheat in even mild temperatures. But Brister, a consultant for Embrace Pet Insurance, explains that temperatures can pose a threat even for breeds with thin coats, and especially flat-faced dogs, known as brachycephalic breeds.

She said: "Dogs at higher risk for overheating should be walked early in the morning or late in the evening when temperatures are coolest. At-risk dogs include obese dogs, those with heart disease, those with upper airway disease or dysfunction, and brachycephalic breeds.

"Avoid walking dogs that are at higher risk for sunburn in the middle of the day when the sun is high. At-risk dogs include hairless or sparsely haired breeds, dogs with shortly shaved coats, and dogs with white or light pigmented hair."

There are many tips for keeping a dog cool during the summer, and one of the primary ones is to avoid walks during the peak temperatures. The website WebMD says that owners shouldn't go out with their four-legged friend between the hours of 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. during the warmer months, as the pavement can get too hot for a dog's paws.

When they get too warm, dogs may need to stop and drink water as often as every 15 minutes, so it's best to avoid any overexertion, particularly for the brachycephalic breeds, as Brister mentioned.

Flat-faced dogs, such as bulldogs, Frenchies, and boxers can easily overheat and may need help regulating their temperatures, according to the AKC. This is due to the shape of their face and how their airways are positioned, meaning they struggle to pant and cool down in the same way other breeds can.

Important To Consider the Dog's Wellbeing and Ability

When it comes to picking a time to walk the dog, Brister notes that generally the breed isn't too important, but it's more about their age and fitness level.

"Size of the dog shouldn't generally be an issue when determining the walk timing, but consider a dog's size and health when deciding how far and how fast to walk," she told Newsweek.

"A small breed dog, especially one that is not used to much exercise, will have to work a lot harder to walk the same distance as a large breed dog with longer legs. That being said, a fit, high-energy, small breed dog may have an easier time on his walk compared to an overweight, large breed dog that spends a lot of time on the couch."

For those dogs who need a little extra, a regular walk doesn't have to be the only form of exercise and enrichment. Other ways of providing stimulation include doing scent work or agility training in the house or outside or having a good old game of tug of war.

Exercise doesn't have to be a chore for the owner or the dog, as the AKC suggests treating it as a form of preventative care to improve their own long-term health and wellbeing.

Younger dogs, especially puppies, have boundless energy and will need regular exercise to keep them satisfied. However, Brister suggests that "older dogs may have a harder time with the heat," as their overall health and fitness may not be as great.

Regardless of how you choose to keep the dog active, some dogs may prefer being walked with a body harness rather than a collar around their neck, as Brister explains that it can put a strain on their breathing.

She continued: "Types of leashes and collars are also important to consider when going on a walk. Dogs at risk for airway problems, such as brachycephalic breeds, those with neck sensitivity, or those at risk for intervertebral disk disease, such as dachshunds, are probably better off being walked with a harness instead of a neck collar."

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