Health

Dogs all have very different character traits. Some have historically been bred for high-energy jobs such as herding or chasing game, while others are designed to be nothing more than companions. Research what your dog was originally bred to do and whether your lifestyle can accommodate its innate behaviour. Exercise requirements have very little to do with size, as small dogs quite frequently require more exercise than larger dogs!

The average dog needs around two hours of exercise every day, but dogs bred for herding (Border Collies) or hunting (Jack Russell Terriers, Beagles, hounds and Springer Spaniels) often need double that.

These active dogs require regular, vigorous exercise and are great if you're looking for a jogging partner but are not the pet of choice for the less active among us. These dogs also need lots of mental stimulation so they can fully express themselves. Jack Russell Terriers, for example, are very intelligent creatures, bred in the 19th Century as fox hunting dogs. They're very quick to fetch objects for you and can learn tricks with ease. The rule of thumb here is only pick such breeds if you are prepared to put in a lot of walks come rain or shine. Many of the working dogs also benefit from having another dog companion.

Medium maintenance breeds typically include Boxers, Dobermans, German Shepherds and Retrievers. Their main purpose is to be a watchdog or guard dog and to do military or police work, which is why they need both regular exercise and lots of mental stimulation, otherwise destructive behaviours an manifest.

Some of the largest breeds including Great Danes and St Bernard's are easier to deal with. Such dogs are content with a long walk that includes a bit of running time and are relatively inactive indoors.

Toy breeds such as Chihuahuas and Havanese are so small that they can often get enough exercise running around the flat or house and make great companions for the elderly. There are also larger low-energy breeds such as the Corgi, Dachshund or Norfolk Terrier, who are ideal for those leading more sedentary lifestyles.

Exercise comes in a variety of forms, such as walks, games, playing with toys and mental stimulation. Dogs, like people, can get bored. Certain dogs get bored enough to engage in undesirable behaviours like destroying potted plants or eating your shoes and furniture. New toys that require some work to get a reward are fantastic for dogs that need a mental challenge. Also, daily interaction with your dog will help satisfy some mental exercise needs.

Observe your dog's behaviour - if they are restless or pacing around the house they are telling you that they are bored and want to go for a walk or need some playtime. Whatever type of dog you have, like any loving relationship, if you make time for your canine friend you'll be rewarded 100 times over!