We tapped into advice from veterinarians, canine behaviorists, and our own Barking Trails team to bring you this comprehensive guide to knowing when your pup might be in need of more activity. Just like humans, dogs need regular exercise to stay physically and mentally healthy. When they don’t get it, they find creative (and often destructive) ways to tell you. Let’s break down the key signs, supported by expert findings, that your dog may be overdue for more movement.
1. Endless Zoomies or Hyperactivity
Those spontaneous bursts of energy, affectionately called “zoomies”, are common in dogs. But when they become frequent, excessive, or disruptive, it’s often a signal of unspent energy.
Why It Happens:
Dogs, especially high-energy breeds like Border Collies, Huskies, and Terriers, need daily outlets to burn off physical and mental energy. According to the American Kennel Club, many dogs require between 30 minutes and two hours of exercise daily depending on age, breed, and health.
What to Do:
- Schedule multiple short walks per day
- Introduce agility or fetch sessions
- Try scent work or canine enrichment games indoors when the weather doesn’t cooperate
2. Destructive Behavior
If you come home to chewed furniture, gnawed shoes, or shredded pillows, it could be boredom and under-stimulation.
Evidence:
A 2020 study in the Journal of Veterinary Behavior found that dogs left alone for long periods without sufficient physical or mental activity were significantly more likely to exhibit destructive behaviors. They aren’t trying to be “bad”, they’re trying to cope.
What to Do:
- Add physical outlets like longer walks, tug-of-war, or dog park visits
- Rotate puzzle toys and chew items to maintain novelty
- Leave a frozen stuffed Kong to keep them mentally busy when you’re away
3. Unwanted Weight Gain
If your dog is putting on pounds and you haven’t increased their food intake, lack of movement may be to blame. According to the Association for Pet Obesity Prevention, an estimated 59% of dogs in the U.S. are overweight or obese. Carrying extra weight can lead to arthritis, heart disease, diabetes, and a shortened lifespan.
What to Look For:
- Loss of a defined waistline
- Difficulty feeling ribs under a layer of fat
- Reluctance to jump, run, or climb stairs
What to Do:
- Gradually introduce more activity, aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate movement daily
- Consult your vet to determine an ideal weight and tailor a diet-and-exercise plan
4. Restlessness or Trouble Settling
Dogs that pace, whine, or resist bedtime are often under-exercised.
The Science:
Physical exercise reduces stress hormones and stimulates serotonin and dopamine in the brain, chemicals that help regulate sleep and mood. Without adequate stimulation, dogs may struggle to relax, particularly in the evenings.
What to Do:
- Add a low-impact walk or light play session in the evening
- Use calming routines (e.g., light massage, chew time, classical music) to help them wind down
- Keep a consistent daily schedule for meals, exercise, and sleep
5. Reactivity on Walks
If your dog is lunging at other dogs, barking excessively, or straining constantly on walks, it may be because they’re overloaded with energy or mentally overstimulated.
Behavioral Link:
Canine behaviorists often note that physical exercise can significantly reduce behavioral issues, including leash reactivity. A well-exercised dog is more relaxed, focused, and easier to train.
What to Do:
- Allow your dog to release energy with a game of fetch or chase in the yard before walks
- Work on leash skills in calm, familiar environments to reinforce good behavior
- Use high-reward treats to keep your dog focused during exposure to triggers
Final Thoughts
Dogs were bred to work, move, and stay active. When we deprive them of regular activity, we often see the consequences through behavior, mood changes, and physical health decline. But the good news? A little goes a long way. Regular exercise doesn’t just make for a happier, healthier dog, it strengthens your bond and creates a shared routine you can both look forward to.
If you’re unsure how much activity your dog needs or how to make it happen with your busy schedule, Barking Trails is here to help. From dog walking to personalized play sessions, we make it easier to meet your pup’s exercise needs.
A tired dog is a good dog, and a happy one, too. 🐾
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