[musapan]

I've had 4-month old Ayana, a Border Collie/Basenji mix for three days. I haven't had a puppy in over 17 years, and it struck me today that I might be exercising her too much.

She's been to work with me for six hours in the last three days, which requires a lot of walking, and I've taken her for a few walks... Is this too much? Should I only be taking her for two 15-minute walks a day, while her bones are still growing? I'm suddenly terrified that I've messed up her growth!

 

[kafkabeetle]

My understanding is that it's only a problem for their growing bodies if you have them run in a structured repetitive way, like you would with a dog jogging beside you. If she doesn't appear overtired I wouldn't worry about it.

 

[Pekinchick]

As long as the dog doesn't seem tired, it's okay, but remember to feed more.

 

[georgiapeach]

It's fine for young dogs to walk, run, and play, as long as they are allowed to stop and rest when they want to. As kafkabeetle stated, they shouldn't be forced to do repetitive exercise, such as jogging or jumping (like in agility, etc.) until their growth plates close.

 

[musapan]

Thanks, guys! (Sorry for the late reply, lol)