Exercise deprivation in shelters is a significant welfare problem, with kennel dogs receiving inadequate physical activity for their species needs.
Shelter dogs that receive inadequate exercise experience frustration from pent-up energy that manifests as kennel crazy behavior, making them appear less adoptable while genuinely suffering from physical and behavioral deprivation. Regular structured exercise reduces stress hormones, improves behavior, and increases adoption rates. Volunteer walker programs provide essential exercise welfare while building human-dog relationships that support adoption.