How Often Should You Walk Your Dog? A Guide for Busy OC Pet Parents

If you’re a busy pet parent in Orange County, you’ve probably asked yourself: “Am I walking my dog enough?”
Between work, kids, errands, and trying to remember where you parked at Trader Joe’s, it’s easy to wonder if your pup is getting the exercise and attention they need.

The good news? You’re not alone, and we’re here to help.

In this guide, we’ll break down how often you should walk your dog, how to build a dog walking schedule that fits your lifestyle, and how Rufflife OC can help take the leash (and guilt) off your plate.

Why Walking Your Dog Matters

Daily walks are more than just potty breaks, they're crucial for your dog’s:

  • Physical health: helps manage weight, digestion, and joints

  • Mental stimulation: sniffing = brain work!

  • Behavior:tired dogs are better-behaved dogs

  • Bonding time for both of you!

Skipping regular walks can lead to pent-up energy, anxiety, and even destructive behaviors like chewing furniture or excessive barking. (We see you, chewed-up flip-flop.)

How Often Should You Walk a Dog?

It depends on a few things like breed, age, energy level, and health, but here’s a general guideline:

🐾 Puppies: Need 3–5 short walks a day, around 5–15 minutes each. Think potty breaks + little bursts of exercise.

🐾 Adult Dogs (most breeds): Aim for 2 walks a day, about 20–30 minutes each to keep them healthy and happy.

🐾 High-Energy Breeds (Labs, Huskies, etc.): These pups need 2–3 longer walks a day—30 to 60 minutes each—to burn off that extra energy.

🐾 Senior Dogs: 1–2 gentle strolls a day, around 10–20 minutes, depending on mobility and comfort.

If you're wondering how often to walk a dog with tons of energy and a chewed-up sock collection? The answer is: probably more.

Real Talk: What If You’re Too Busy?

Let’s be honest, OC life is busy. Between Laguna Beach traffic and soccer practice in Aliso Viejo, sometimes the dog walk just doesn’t happen.

That’s where a professional dog walker in Orange County (like us! 👋) comes in. We offer:

  • Midday walks for working professionals

  • Morning and afternoon visits for families on-the-go

  • Custom dog walking schedules based on your pup’s needs

Whether you need help 5 days a week or just on your busiest days, Rufflife OC has you covered. No guilt. No judgment. Just happy dogs.

Creating a Dog Walking Schedule That Works

Here’s a sample breakdown for an average OC pup:

  • Morning walk (before 9 AM): Potty + sniff around the block

  • Midday walk (12–2 PM): Stretch legs, get some stimulation

  • Evening walk (6–8 PM): Burn off energy, relax before bedtime

Too much? Start with a midday walk during your workday and build from there. It’s better to be consistent with one walk than sporadic with three.

Signs Your Dog Needs More Walks

If you're unsure whether your dog’s getting enough walks, watch for:

  • Excessive barking or zoomies

  • Chewing on furniture or shoes

  • Weight gain or restlessness

  • Pacing or staring at the leash (yes, it’s a thing)

If any of these sound familiar, it might be time to revisit their dog walking schedule—or call in reinforcements 🐾

Final Thoughts

Walking your dog regularly is one of the best ways to keep them healthy, happy, and well-behaved. But if your schedule makes it tough, don’t stress, we’re here to help.

At Rufflife OC, we’re more than just dog walkers, we’re your dog’s new best friend (and your secret weapon for keeping them happy while you handle life).


👉 Ready to take walks off your to-do list?

📅 Book a dog walk with Rufflife OC today and give your pup the daily routine they deserve.

Eddie Thomson