Energy Level - South Africa Dog Guide

Where Does Your Dog Fit on the Activity Scale?

Not every dog needs the same amount of exercise, stimulation or adventure. From happy couch potatoes to dogs who seem to have an endless supply of energy, activity levels can vary greatly between breeds and individual dogs.

An English Bulldog with a white and brindle coat lies on a paved path, panting with its tongue hanging out. The dog is wearing a tan collar and has a wrinkled face, stocky build, and relaxed expression, with a softly blurred green background.

Low-Moderate Energy

Daily walks & regular play

These dogs enjoy getting out and about but are usually content with a moderate amount of daily activity.

Examples: Basset Hounds, English Bulldogs, Pugs

They need: Daily walks, playtime and simple training or enrichment activities.

Lhasa Apso standing in a grassy field dotted with yellow wildflowers on a sunny day. The small dog has a neatly trimmed tan and gray coat, a fluffy curled tail carried over its back, and a cheerful expression with its tongue slightly out. The green meadow and soft blue sky create a bright, outdoor setting.

Moderate Energy

Regular exercise & mental stimulation

These dogs enjoy an active lifestyle and benefit from a good balance of physical exercise and brain work.

Examples: American Cocker Spaniels, Irish Wolfhounds, Lhasa Apsos

They need: Daily walks, play, training and opportunities to explore and sniff.

A German Shepherd standing outdoors on a wooded path, looking directly at the camera with its mouth slightly open. The dog has a thick black-and-tan coat, upright ears, and an alert, confident expression, with a softly blurred forest background.

High Energy

Long walks & plenty of stimulation

These dogs thrive when they have plenty to do. They need more than a quick walk around the block to feel fulfilled.

Examples: Beagles, German Shepherds, Whippets

They need: Longer walks, active play, training, enrichment and regular opportunities to use both body and brain.

An Irish Setter standing in a grassy field, facing to the side with its mouth open and tongue out. The dog has a rich mahogany-red coat with long feathering on its ears, chest, legs, and tail, set against a backdrop of vibrant golden autumn foliage.

Very High Energy

Adventure, exercise & a job to do

These dogs are often happiest when they lead an active lifestyle and have plenty of opportunities to work, explore, and learn. They can become restless or frustrated when their physical and mental needs aren’t met.

Examples: Australian Cattle Dogs, Irish Setters, Jack Russell Terriers

They need: Plenty of daily physical exercise, mental stimulation, training and activities that give them a purpose.

Remember

Activity level is only one part of the picture. Every dog is an individual, and their exercise needs can vary depending on age, health, personality and lifestyle.

Before choosing a breed, make sure their activity level matches the lifestyle you can realistically provide.