Overview: Exercise is essential for dogs’ physical health, behaviour, and happiness, varying by breed, age, and energy level in the UK.
Detailed Content:
• Daily Needs:
◦ Small breeds (e.g., Terriers, <9 kg): 30-60 minutes (walks, play). ◦ Medium breeds (e.g., Beagles, 9-23 kg): 1-1.5 hours. ◦ Large/active breeds (e.g., Border Collies, >23 kg): 1.5-2 hours of vigorous exercise.
◦ Seniors: 20-30 minutes of low-impact walks (e.g., 2x 15-min walks).
• Activities:
◦ Walks: Use a 6-ft leash (£8-£15, Pets at Home). Vary routes to stimulate senses.
◦ Play: Fetch with a Chuckit! ball (£4-£8, Amazon UK), tug-of-war with a rope toy (£6-£10, VetUK).
◦ Agility: Set up home courses with tunnels (£20-£40, Pets at Home) for high-energy dogs.
◦ Dog parks: Ideal for socialisation (50% of dogs benefit behaviourally).
• Weather Considerations:
◦ Summer: Walk early/late to avoid heatstroke (affects 5% of dogs in warm weather).
◦ Winter: Use booties (e.g., Ancol Muddy Paws Booties, £20-£40, Amazon UK) for icy paws.
• Tracking Activity:
◦ Log walks, playtime, or training. Example: “30 min walk, 15 min fetch.”
◦ Goal: 300-600 minutes weekly for active breeds.
• Behavioural Benefits: Regular exercise reduces barking (25% of dogs) and chewing (30%).
Chatbot Training Tips:
• Create plans: “For a 2-year-old Border Collie, aim for a 45-minute walk and 30 minutes of fetch daily with a Chuckit! ball.”
• Track activity: “How long was your dog’s walk today? Tell me, and I’ll track their weekly progress.”
• Suggest safety: “In summer, walk your dog before 8 AM to avoid hot pavement.”
