I am the proud first time owner of a lovely yellow lab puppy (12 weeks old). I'm desperate to take her out for walks. Can anyone give me any very specific advice about how much exercise I can give her. At the moment she goes out twice a day on the lead for 15 mins and loose in the field at the back running along after me once a day for 10-15 mins. She also runs round the garden when she goes out to the loo. Is that OK at the moment and how much and when can I increase it? I am aware of the advice about stairs for labs( we live in a bungalow!!) I wpold be very grateful for any help . Thanks Jane

Hi Jane.
Running around the Garden on her own is no problem, she can regulate herself and stop for a sleep anytime she likes. At that age mine get around 10 minutes walk on the lead only, Twice a day if you like providing there is plenty of rest time in between. As for the run around the field, don’t forget that as far as work is concerned, following you is to all intents and purposes the same as walking on the lead in that she can't stop for a sleep until she gets home. If you want to give her a run in the field I would make it a 10 minute period replacing one of the lead walks. We all want to go for a nice long walk with our dogs but, please be patient, give the bones time to harden and you will have a companion for your walks for as far as you want to go. Gradually increase the distance over the first year and you will be giving her the best possible start in life.

Best wishes, John

Dear John
Thanks very much for your advice
Jane