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Do I have to walk my Frenchie every day?

Watching your Frenchie lounge on the couch, you might start questioning if a missed walk is a big deal. These little pups aren’t built like high-energy breeds.

Watching your Frenchie lounge on the couch, you might start questioning if a missed walk is a big deal. These little pups aren’t built like high-energy breeds. Their short legs and flat faces mean their daily activity needs are way different from, say, a German Shepherd.

Most areas don’t have laws that say you must walk your dog a certain number of times a day. But they do require you to keep your Frenchie healthy. If your pup is stuck inside all the time, getting anxious and chewing up your stuff, local animal welfare rules could consider that not taking good enough care of them. And remember, when you take them out to do their business, even if it’s not a full walk, leash laws almost always apply in public.

In neighborhoods, people pay attention. A Frenchie barking all day because they’re bored? That’s sure to annoy the folks next door. And not cleaning up after them? Most towns have fines for that, and you don’t want to be the talk of the community for the wrong reasons.

Physically, pushing them to walk a lot isn’t good. Frenchies struggle with heat—their short snouts make it hard to breathe when it’s over 75°F. I once saw a Frenchie get worn out after just 10 minutes in the afternoon sun, panting heavily. It’s better to have two 15-20 minute walks a day, early in the morning or later in the evening, than one long, tiring stroll.

Some days, they’ll be excited to go out; other days, they’ll act like the door is the last place they want to be. Go with what they want. If it’s raining hard or super hot, playing inside—throwing a toy or doing some quick training—works too. Just don’t let them lie around all day; even a little activity keeps their joints in good shape.

Walks aren’t only about exercise. They’re a chance for your Frenchie to sniff around and explore, which tires them out mentally more than running around. Letting them stop and check out that interesting spot by the tree? That’s their way of “catching up on the news.” If you don’t let them do that, they might end up chewing your favorite shoes instead.

So, do you have to walk your Frenchie every single day? Not necessarily. But you should try to have regular, gentle activity that matches their mood and the weather. Keep an eye on local rules, be considerate of your community, and let your Frenchie set the pace. They’ll show their thanks with more cuddles and fewer destroyed household items.

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