purina bella logo

Get Exercited / How Much Exercise is Enough for My Small Dog?

  

image of small Yorkshire terrier in front of stairs

Diet and exercise requirements aren’t one size fits small.

All dogs benefit from exercise for brain, body and behavioral health. But how do you know if your favorite
four-legged is getting the proper balance for their itty-bitty body? #ItsComplicated

The amount of exercise your small dog needs depends on a number of factors: breed, size/weight
and age. It also can be impacted by what they eat and underlying health issues. 

image of pug running in the grass

The General Rule of Paw on Small Dog Exercise:

For most small dogs, 30-60 minutes of exercise a day is ideal. This isn’t only walks and runs; active play sessions count too! And those sessions add up, so consider several short walks or play times rather than a single long sustained one. Ask your veterinarian if your precious pup likely needs more or less than that amount. And then watch for these signs:

image of small black frenchy dog chewing on shoe

Signs Your Small Dog May Need More Exercise:

  • ▪ Hyper energy bursts (running in circles, jumping on couch, etc.)
  • ▪ Destructive behaviors (snacking on sneakers, chewing on chairs)
image of small Pomeranian dog laying on blankets

Signs Your Small Dog Could Be Over Exercised:

  • ▪ Excessive panting, drooling or thirst
  • ▪ Decreased energy, increasingly tired  
  • ▪ Abnormally reluctant, stops in place
  • ▪ Having difficulty standing or walking
  • ▪ Limping, lagging behind or lying down
  • ▪ Appears dizzy, fatigued or disoriented
  • ▪ Whining, discomfort or sore muscles

Prevent issues and injuries by talking to your vet about a smart exercise plan for your dog.
And make sure to pamper your pet with proper small dog nutrition to support their active little bodies – from natural meals
with added vitamins and minerals that are crafted specifically for small dogs like yours.

Back to Small Bites

Tips, Tricks, and Trends for the Small Dog Lifestyle

bella small dog food package group image

Nourish and Delight


You can feel confident that you are providing your small dog with the nutrition they need and the flavors they love, so you both can have a delightful mealtime experience.

The Recipes They Want and the Nutrition They Need

Protein-rich including real meats to help support strong muscles
Soft, easy to chew texture for little mouths
Great Taste for discerning palettes
Antioxidant blend tailored for small dogs' hard-working immune systems
Natural ingredients plus vitamins and minerals
Helps support health throughout their linger life expectancy

Stay in Touch

Sign up today! You’ll be the first to know when we announce new coupons and new recipes. In addition, you will receive the occasional Small Bites email, featuring tips, tricks and trends for the small dog lifestyle.

* Required Field