Hey there, Doodle Owners! Elina here.

Understanding your Doodle's exercise needs can feel overwhelming, especially when you're trying to balance their energy levels with your daily schedule. The answer isn't one-size-fits-all, but there are clear guidelines that can help you create the right routine for your specific Doodle.

Most Doodles need between 30 to 90 minutes of exercise daily, depending on their age, size, and individual energy level. This number varies significantly based on whether you have a young puppy, an active adult, or a senior Doodle.

Puppy Doodles have high energy but limited endurance. They need shorter, more frequent activity sessions throughout the day rather than long exercise periods.

Exercise Duration: 5 minutes per month of age, twice daily 

Example: A 4-month-old puppy needs about 20 minutes of exercise, twice per day

Young Doodles benefit from: 

• Short walks around the neighborhood 
• Indoor play sessions 
• Basic training exercises 
• Supervised backyard exploration 
• Gentle games of fetch

Avoid intense activities like long hikes or jogging until their joints fully develop. Puppy bones and joints are still growing, making them vulnerable to injury from excessive exercise.

Adult Doodles typically need 60 to 90 minutes of exercise daily. This is when your Doodle reaches peak energy and endurance levels.

Morning Session: 30-45 minutes 

Evening Session: 30-45 minutes

• Adult Doodles thrive with: 
• Brisk walks or light jogging 
• Extended fetch sessions 
• Swimming (excellent low-impact option)
• Hiking on moderate trails 
• Dog park visits for socialization 
• Agility training or obstacle courses

Standard-sized Doodles generally require more exercise than mini versions, but individual personality plays a significant role in determining exact needs.

Senior Doodles need modified exercise routines that account for potential joint issues and decreased stamina. 

Most senior Doodles do well with 30 to 60 minutes of gentle activity daily.

Focus Areas: 

• Shorter, slower walks 
• Swimming for joint-friendly exercise 
• Mental stimulation activities 
• Gentle stretching and movement 
• Indoor games during extreme weather

Watch for signs of fatigue and adjust accordingly. Some senior Doodles maintain high energy levels well into their golden years, while others prefer more relaxed activities.

Physical activities keep your Doodle's body healthy and help prevent obesity-related health issues.

High-Impact Activities: 

• Running and jogging 
• Fetch games 
• Frisbee 
• Hiking 
• Swimming

Low-Impact Activities: 

• Walking 
• Gentle play 
• Controlled indoor games 
• Supervised yard time

Weather Considerations: 

Hot weather requires early morning or evening exercise sessions. Cold weather may need shorter outdoor times with indoor alternatives ready.

Mental exercise can be just as tiring as physical activity for Doodles. These intelligent dogs need brain challenges to prevent boredom and destructive behaviors.

Mental Exercise Ideas: 

• Puzzle toys and treat-dispensing toys 
• Basic obedience training 
• Hide and seek games 
• Sniffing exercises and scent work 
• Learning new tricks

Mental stimulation can replace some physical exercise on days when outdoor activities aren't possible.

Recognizing under-exercised behavior helps you adjust your routine before problems develop.

Behavioral Indicators: 

• Excessive barking or whining 
• Destructive chewing or digging 
• Restlessness during quiet times 
• Difficulty settling down for naps 
• Attention-seeking behaviors 
• Weight gain 
• Hyperactivity indoors

Physical Signs: 

• Easy weight gain 
• Poor muscle tone 
• Lack of endurance during normal activities
• Stiffness after rest periods

Too much exercise can be harmful, especially for young or senior Doodles.

Watch for these symptoms: 

• Excessive panting that doesn't stop after rest
• Limping or favoring one leg 
• Reluctance to continue walking 
• Excessive drooling 
• Disorientation or stumbling 
• Persistent fatigue the next day

If you notice these signs, reduce exercise intensity and duration. Allow recovery time between intense activity sessions.

A successful exercise routine combines different activity types throughout the week.

Sample Weekly Schedule for Adult Doodles:

Monday/Wednesday/Friday: 

• 45-minute morning walk 
• 20-minute evening play session

Tuesday/Thursday: 

• 30-minute walk 
• 30-minute mental stimulation activities

Weekend: 

• Longer adventure (hiking, beach visit, dog park) 
• Adjust other days accordingly

Flexibility Tips: 

• Have indoor backup plans for bad weather 
• Adjust timing based on your schedule 
• Consider your Doodle's individual preferences 
• Mix up activities to prevent boredom

Some Doodles prefer morning exercise, while others are evening athletes. Pay attention to when your dog seems most energetic and plan accordingly.

Chuckit! Ultra Ball Dog Toy: This durable ball withstands heavy chewing and provides excellent bounce for fetch games. Perfect for high-energy play sessions and helps tire out active Doodles efficiently.

KONG Classic Dog Toy: Ideal for mental stimulation when stuffed with treats. This versatile toy keeps Doodles engaged during indoor time and can supplement physical exercise with brain work.

Retractable Dog Leash: Gives your Doodle freedom to explore while maintaining control during walks. The extended length allows for varied walking speeds and sniffing opportunities that enhance exercise quality.

Finding the right exercise balance for your Doodle takes time and observation. Start with age-appropriate guidelines and adjust based on your dog's individual response and energy levels. Remember that consistency matters more than perfection, and even a shorter exercise session is better than none at all.

What's your Doodle's favorite way to get exercise? 

Comment below and share your go-to activities for keeping your pup happy and healthy!