There are 223 pedigree dog breeds in the UK, but according to a canine behaviourist, it's the 26 working dog breeds that need the most exercise and longest walks
07:20, 19 Jun 2026
Before you're smitten by an adorable puppy face or choose a dog purely on appearance, there's one crucial factor every prospective owner ought to consider: exercise requirements. Dogs vary enormously in shape, size, and energy levels - some flourish on lengthy runs, daily walks, and hours of activity, while others are perfectly happy with a gentle wander around the park.
Larger breeds frequently require more physical activity and longer walks, so it's vital to think about selecting a dog that suits your lifestyle. Dr Emma Scales-Theobald, a canine behaviourist and partner at Canine Cottages, explains that one particular breed group requires considerably more exercise.
Despite there being 223 pedigree breeds in the UK, it's the working dogs that demand more physical exertion owing to their high stamina.
The Kennel Club explains that working dogs are a group of breeds developed for specific jobs such as property protection or search and rescue operations. They are intelligent, strong, watchful, and alert.
Well-known working dog breeds include Boxers, Dobermanns and Rottweilers. However, the UK Kennel Club recognises a total of 26 official working dog breeds, reports the Express .
Dr Scales-Theobald went on to say that most dogs generally enjoy 30 minutes to an hour of exercise, while older or injured dogs may need shorter sessions.
During warm weather , all dogs should have reduced exercise sessions and these ought to be scheduled during the cooler times of the day - early morning and evening. Puppies also need particular care as their joints are still developing.
To safeguard their joints, it's advisable to restrict their exercise until they reach at least one year of age.
She emphasises that factors such as breed, age, weight, stamina, weather, and the type of exercise should all be taken into account when deciding how long your dog should exercise for.
Older dogs, generally those aged eight and over, should be exercised carefully to allow for joint issues and other conditions that accompany ageing.
Shannon Keary, Digital PR Manager at Canine Cottages, said: "As we see sunnier days arriving across the UK, many of us are excited to continue our fitness routines in the sun, and including our furry friends can keep us motivated and active.
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"Emma's tips are crucial for dog owners, offering valuable advice on the right steps to take and how to ensure your dog's safety during exercise."
Working dogs
Alaskan Malamute
Greenland Dog
Bernese Mountain Dog
Hovawart
Bouvier Des Flandres
Leonberger
Boxer
Mastiff
Bullmastiff
Neapolitan Mastiff
Canadian Eskimo Dog
Newfoundland
Dobermann
Portuguese Water Dog
Dogue de Bordeaux
Pyrenean Mastiff
Entlebucher Mountain Dog
Rottweiler
German Pinscher
Russian Black Terrier
Giant Schnauzer
Siberian Husky
Great Dane
St. Bernard
Great Swiss Mountain Dog
Tibetan Mastiff
Read the full article at Daily Mirror →
United Kingdom