Adequate exercise is fundamental to dog welfare, and exercise deprivation is associated with a wide range of behavioural and physical health problems.
Exercise deprivation is among the most common welfare failures for pet dogs. Urbanisation, long working hours and breed-owner mismatches leave many dogs chronically under-exercised. The consequences — behavioural problems, obesity and reduced psychological wellbeing — are well-documented. Exercise is not merely physical; the cognitive component of exploring, sniffing and choosing where to go is welfare-relevant in its own right. Dogs allowed to sniff freely during walks show lower cortisol and greater behavioural satisfaction than those kept tightly controlled. Owners must honestly assess whether they can meet the exercise needs of chosen breeds before acquisition.