Get

In Your Inbox

Dogster is reader-supported. When you buy via links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no cost to you. Learn more.

Do Dogs Need to Go Outside? 7 Vet-Verified Reasons to Get Them Outdoors

rat terrier dog standing outside

Dogs can’t synthesize vitamin D from UV rays in the same way humans can. So, if there’s no direct health benefit of soaking up the sun, is there any need to take a dog outside? While dogs don’t need UV exposure, taking them outside can improve their mental well-being, ensure that they get enough exercise, and allow them to socialize with humans and dogs.

There are plenty of reasons to take dogs out for regular walks, and spending time playing with them in a secure yard also benefits you and your dog.

divider dog paws 4 oct 2024

The 7 Reasons Your Dog Should Go Outside

Walking your dog should be a daily part of your pet care regime. Although the required duration and intensity of walks differ by breed and an individual dog’s circumstances, you should walk your dog for around 30 minutes to 1 hour a day, but it can be split over two or more walks.

There are numerous reasons why dog walking is so important. It is not only beneficial for your dog, but it has been shown that regular walks can improve your mental well-being and physical condition.

1. Socialization

Socializing a dog means introducing them to new situations and people that they’ve not encountered before. This teaches them that new situations are nothing to fear. It also lets your pup connect with other dogs and people. Socialization should start when a dog is young, but it needs to continue throughout their life.

woman playing with weimaraner dogs
Image Credit: Christian Mueller, Shutterstock

2. Exercise

Exercise is important. Without regular exercise, your dog will likely gain weight and may develop joint, bone, and other health conditions. A lack of exercise can also lead to poor mental health. All of these factors contribute to a shorter lifespan, but every dog’s exercise requirements are different.

Some companion dogs may not need extensive exercise, but working breeds require more intense exercise for longer periods.


3. Reduced Anxiety and Stress

Going on a walk provides your dog with access to different environments. It enables them to sniff and experience sights and sounds they don’t get when shut in the house. This can reduce anxiety, while regular exercise and time outdoors can reduce stress.

If a dog suffers from separation anxiety or engages in destructive behavior, ensuring they get enough regular exercise is one way to reduce these problems.

mini goldendoodle puppy dog running outdoors
Image Credit: SoySendra, Shutterstock

4. Bonding

Walking your dog also provides a chance to bond with them, and they will look to you for support and guidance while you’re out. The stronger the bond between you, the more likely your dog will listen to you and behave well.


5. Training Opportunities

One reason that a lot of people put off walking their dog is that they aren’t good on a leash or they misbehave while out. Some dogs get excited when they get out of the house. Regular walks can reduce excitement and anxiety and allow you to work on leash walking and other training activities.

You can use a long leash and work on recall, teach your dog to retrieve, level up on nose work, practice engagement-disengagement techniques, etc. The outdoors and its varying and unpredictable stimuli help to take your dog’s attention and obedience skills to the next level.

a weimaraner dog being trained at the park
Image Credit: Frank J. Triguero, Shutterstock

6. Improved Immunity

When dogs are given the chance to go outside and have contact with soil, they also get the chance to develop a strong immune system. Regular contact with healthy soil helps dogs to develop a healthy and varied skin and gut microbiome. This in turn strengthens their immune systems and makes them less susceptible to developing infections, allergies, and sensitivities.


7. Sensorial Enrichment

Even if you do not find the motivation to train your dog while outside, the opportunity to be outdoors; feel the wind in their face and whiskers; see a variety of movements, colors, and plants; and, more than anything, smell all those scents is an incredible sensorial enrichment for them.

Dogs’ olfactory sense is fascinating, and their perception of the world through their nose is what makes a dog, well, a dog. It’s a great way to allow them to express the natural behavior of their species! You can always deliver variability and excitement simply by allowing them to enjoy the many different scents that only the adventures outside can provide to their day-to-day lives.

You are free to use this image but we do require you to link back to Dogster.com for credit

dogster paw divider

Is the Backyard Enough?

Letting a dog out in the yard is an excellent supplement to regular walks, but it shouldn’t be viewed as a replacement. While it gives your dog a chance to pee and poop, and you can provide exercise if your yard is big enough, walking your dog introduces them to new sights and smells that they cannot experience in your yard.

How Much Exercise Do Dogs Need?

The amount of exercise a dog needs depends on their breed, age, and health. In most cases, you should expect to provide at least 30 to 60 minutes of daily exercise. This can be split into two walks, and if yours is a working breed or especially active, you might need to provide more exercise. If your vet recommends more or less exercise, always follow their guidelines.

Did you know you can talk to a vet online? Click on the image or button below to schedule a call: PangoVet_Mention-in-Content Savings V1


Is It Okay to Not Walk Your Dog for a Day?

If it is a one-off, and there’s a good reason, missing one day of walks shouldn’t be detrimental to your dog’s physical or mental health. However, it shouldn’t become a habit. Your dog needs daily exercise, typically provided through regular walks, so don’t skip walks unless absolutely essential.

If you cannot walk your dog for a few days, consider hiring a friend, family member, or professional dog walker to take them out for you.

Is One Walk a Day Enough for a Dog?

For some breeds, a daily walk might be enough to keep them fit and healthy. However, providing two walks means that you can take a dog out for a walk first in the morning and another before bed, giving them a chance to do their business and reducing the risk of them peeing and pooping in the house.

divider dog paws 4 oct 2024

Conclusion

Regular exercise and socialization are vital to all dogs. Getting out for a daily walk or two with your dog can also help with training and strengthen the bond between you. Letting your dog out in the yard shouldn’t be seen as a replacement for regular walks but it can be used to supplement walks and provide a convenient way to let your dog do their business out of the house. Going outside is important for your dog’s mental and physical health, as it provides enrichment and allows them to enjoy the world.

See also:


Featured Image Credit: Emily Ranquist, Shutterstock

How useful was this post?

Click on a star to rate (you can leave written feedback after clicking submit)

Help us improve Dogster for pet parents!

Your feedback really matters.

What did you like about this post? Also how can we improve it?

Join the conversation

Leave a Reply

You’re very welcome to leave a comment or question. Please know that all comments must meet our community guidelines, and your email address will NOT be published. Let’s have a positive and constructive conversation.

Talk With A Vet Online

Peace of mind,
anywhere, anytime

Affordable vet advice

Are Blue Heeler Dogs Really Blue? Setting the Facts Straight (Vet-Reviewed)

While there are many wonderful dog breeds available to pet owners, one that stands out in part due to their interesting name is...

Pitbull vs Great Dane: The Differences (With Pictures)

If you have finally decided to bring a new addition into your home, you may have narrowed your search to a Great Dane...

Raising a Rural Dog in the Country: Vet-Verified Pros & Cons

There are many notable differences between city dogs and country dogs. In the countryside, there is a seemingly infinite amount of space to...

Great Dane Dalmatian Mix Breed: Info, Pictures, Temperament & More

The Dalmatian and the Great Dane have impacted the world, offering services and companionship to human beings for hundreds of years. But what...

More related

Hovawart Dog Breed: Info, Pictures, Facts & Traits

With a name like Hovawart, this dog can only be from Germany! Pronounced “Hoe-va-vart,” the breed is protective and has a dominant personality...

10 Dog Breeds That Look Like Chihuahuas: With Info & Pictures

Love the look of the Chihuahua, but want a dog that is, perhaps, less yappy or a bit bigger? Then, you’ll be glad...

How to Train Your Dog To Be Calm in Public: 10 Vet-Approved Tips

Every responsible dog parent wants to make sure their dog is well-equipped to handle going out in public and interacting with other people...

Terri-Poo (Australian Terrier & Poodle Mix): Info, Pictures, Care & More

Looking for a new furry friend to add to your family? You might want to consider a designer dog! Designer dog breeds have...

Keep reading

Can You Return Dog Food to Walmart? What You Need to Know

Have you ever adopted a new puppy and tried several different puppy foods to find something he loves, but he’s just not into anything you’re offering him? Or has your older dog suddenly developed an aversion to the food he’s...

woman buying dog food

Can Dogs Eat Cow Hooves? Vet-Approved Facts, Risks & Alternatives

Dogs can eat various snacks, some of which you might never have thought of up until you saw them advertised. So, where do cow hooves fit in a world of edible oddities? It seems strange, but realistically, it is part...

Can Dogs Eat Cow Hooves

Can Dogs Eat Alfalfa? Vet-Verified Facts to Know

Alfalfa is an important grazing plant that feeds livestock worldwide. Many people wonder, can dogs can eat alfalfa? The short answer is yes, alfalfa is a healthy food for dogs. However, there are a few factors to consider before making...

Can Dogs Eat Alfalfa

Petaluma Dog Food Review 2025: Our Expert’s Opinion

Petaluma is changing the pet food industry by producing 100% vegan dog food that also contains high-quality ingredients. This Oakland-based company is mission-driven and works diligently towards building a more environmentally friendly and sustainable model for pet food production. Petaluma...

Dogster_Petaluma Dog Food Review

15 Pet Food Delivery Service Trends & Statistics to Know in 2025

Pet food delivery is a vibrant and growing portion of the pet food market. More and more people are opting to buy their pet food online and have it delivered straight to their house rather than buy it in-store. These...

World Pet Delivery Facts and Statistics

8 Best Dog Foods for Australian Shepherds in 2025: Reviews & Top Picks

If you have an Australian Shepherd, you know they’re a breed of their own. These medium-large dogs are highly energetic and intelligent, so it’s no surprise they thrive with the best food. Since Australian Shepherds are so active, they need...

Australian Shepherd

The New Zealand Natural Pet Food Co. WOOF Review 2025: An Expert’s Breakdown

Like most dog mamas out there, I highly prioritize the health of my two pups. Halle and Indy are part of my family and I want them to live and thrive as long as they possibly can. Halle is, somehow,...

DOG_SAPR_New Zealand Natural Dog food

Can Dogs Eat Mayo? Vet-Verified Nutritional Facts & FAQ

Mayo, or mayonnaise, is not something that you should be offering to your dog. If they sneak a lick of your mayo spoon, they will probably be just fine. But you shouldn’t make it a habit, as mayo has no...

Can Dogs Eat_Mayo