After how many days can a dog go for walks? - briefly
A dog can typically start going for short walks again after about 10-14 days post-surgery or illness, depending on its specific condition and veterinarian's advice.
After how many days can a dog go for walks? - in detail
The timeline for when a dog can safely go for walks after certain events depends on several factors, including their age, overall health, and any specific medical conditions they may have. Here is a detailed breakdown:
Puppies: New puppies should not go for long walks until they have received all of their vaccinations, typically around 14-16 weeks of age. Before this time, they are vulnerable to diseases like parvovirus and distemper. Even after vaccination, it's advisable to keep walks short and on familiar territory for the first few months to allow their bones and muscles to develop properly.
Spaying/Neutering: Following a spay or neuter surgery, dogs should have restricted activity for about 10-14 days. During this period, short leash walks are generally allowed, but strenuous exercise or long walks should be avoided until the incision site is fully healed, usually around 2-3 weeks post-surgery.
Illness or Injury: If a dog has been ill or injured, the timeline for resuming walks depends on the specific condition and the veterinarian's advice. Generally, light leash walks can begin once the dog shows signs of improvement and is no longer in pain. However, full recovery and return to normal activity levels may take several weeks.
Adoption or Change of Environment: When a dog is adopted or moves to a new environment, it's important to let them settle in before introducing long walks. Usually, after a few days to a week, short walks can be started, gradually increasing the duration as the dog becomes more comfortable and familiar with their new surroundings.
Recovery from Surgery: For major surgeries like orthopedic procedures (e.g., ACL repair), the recovery period is longer. Dogs should avoid all forms of exercise except for short, leashed walks to eliminate for 2-4 weeks post-surgery. After this initial phase, activity can gradually be increased under veterinary guidance.
General Guidelines:
- Puppies: No long walks until fully vaccinated (around 16 weeks).
- Spaying/Neutering: Short leash walks after 2 weeks; full recovery around 3 weeks.
- Illness/Injury: Resume light walks once improvement is seen, full recovery varies.
- Adoption/New Environment: Start short walks after a week, gradually increase duration.
- Major Surgery: Short leashed walks only for 2-4 weeks; gradual increase under veterinary guidance.