Hi all,
I'm going to be getting a new puppy and, even after doing my fair share of research, have some questions.
I walk/jog a little under 2 1/2 miles a day at around 6pm with my 20lb mutt daily/every other day and thought this would be an excellent way to exercise my new pup as well, if it's enough. It takes about a half hour, alternating between a walk and a jog. I'm working up to a continuous jog/run. I also have a large yard and two active small breed pups (not counting my lazy butt Mutt) to play with.
I understand the need and importance for mental stimulation, as well as the benefits of it tiring out a dog, especially a puppy.
I was not able to just choose one breed I want, because every breed has pros and cons and they're all hard to find at a reasonable price in my area, so I currently have 6 of them. Those 6 are a Great Dane, Golden Retriever, Lab Retriever, Doberman, Boxer, or German Shepherd. Give or take depending on availability.
2 1/2 miles + 1 hour or so of mental stimulation daily should be plenty for the first 3 breeds, but I've heard that the last 3 need a LOT of exercise. Will it be enough, or would I have to do more?
I also understand that you have to be careful with big breed puppies as they grow because of their joints and such (especially Great Danes) so that is a consideration.
I am a young girl who does school online so time isn't an issue, but my energy levels are. I'm a relatively lazy person, but I'm working on being more active before I get the pup. I should add that I hike/go to the gym 1-2 times a week. Gym won't help for a dog but the hiking should.
I'm pretty sure I left some stuff out but thanks in advance for the help!