Rent safe and private dog parks hosted by locals

  1. Home
  2. Blog
  3. Dog Enrichment
  4. Do All Dogs Need Off-Leash Exercise Time?

Do All Dogs Need Off-Leash Exercise Time?

Haley Young photo

Haley Young

June 29, 2024

Dog Enrichment

Do All Dogs Need Off-Leash Exercise Time? thumbnail

Watching our dogs run off leash can be one of the best feelings in the world. (It's the reason Sniffspot's private dog park network was founded in the first place.)

But do all dogs need time off leash in order to be fulfilled? What if you live in an area where accessing safe spots to exercise your dog is tough—or you're still working on their recall to be able to adventure safely? Are you letting your pup down if you feel better having them physically attached to you?

We've got you covered. Here's how to know if your dog is a good candidate for off-leash adventures—or perfectly happy without them.


  • Benefits and risks of giving your dog off-leash time
  • What dogs really need to be fulfilled
  • How to safely let your dog off leash
  • Alternatives to off-leash adventures
  • Wrap up to make the right decision for you

Benefits: Off-leash time can be amazing!

There are many benefits of off leash exercise for pets and people alike.

Physical health and freedom of movement

When your dog is off lead, they're able to exercise in ways that aren't possible when they're restrained by a leash. It's easier for them to move at their own pace, run freely, swim, and backtrack to interesting scents without feeling pressure from a physical tether.

Because of this, off-leash adventures an offer higher intensity exercise than most leashed walks or runs with your dog. They can also provide young puppies or elderly dogs with a better opportunity to take breaks and listen to their bodies. All these can be important contributors to your dog’s health!

Mental health and biological fulfillment

Living in a modern human world—and always having to stay at the end of a short leash—can be tough for companions whose ancestors used to cover miles in a single day. Off leash activities give your dog the freedom to roam, explore, and sniff new things. This provides your dog with much-needed mental stimulation.

Dogs often show more natural body language when enjoying off leash freedom, too. (Researchers observe a similar effect when dogs are on a long line. More on long leashes later!)

Building trust between dog and handler

The work you put in ahead of your off-leash adventures—and the joy you share on your outings themselves—lead to a closer relationship with your canine companion. After all, our ancestors spent countless hours covering ground together!

Off-leash training specifically boosts trust between dog and dog parent. Choosing to responsibly let your dog off leash means taking the time to teach them cues that will ensure their safety. The more you build your communication? The stronger your connection will be.

A small dog heels next to his owner, looking up eagerly. Obedience training is one type of mental exercise for canines

Risks: Off-leash adventures also come with drawbacks

There is no way to guarantee complete safety with off leash exercise. Because nearly all outdoor areas are unpredictable, you can’t be sure that your off leash dog will never be in harm’s way.

More exposure to potential hazards

Off-leash activities expose dogs to potential dangers like other aggressive pets in public off leash parks, wild animals (even prey critters can cause harm to an unsuspecting dog who chases them), toxic plants, or hazardous substances. When your dog is ahead of you off leash, it's harder to see these risks—and intervene—ahead of time.

Legal requirements and repercussions

In many places, leash laws exist for the safety of both dogs and people. Local governments can impose penalties on handlers who fail to follow posted guidelines.

Always be aware of—and actually follow—regulations regarding leash use. Off-leash parks should be clearly marked for you. When in doubt? You can get in touch with your local city parks department for more information.

What does your dog really need to be fulfilled?

A fulfilled dog is a happy dog. No pet parent is going to argue with that! The real question is: Is "off-leash time" a necessary part of the fulfillment equation?

The answer is messy. It depends.

First, we need to meet our dogs' basic needs

Food, water, shelter, and social interaction are minimum requirements to keep our dogs healthy.

All dogs need sufficient exercise

Next up is physical movement. Just like us, our dogs need to exercise in order to stay healthy! But how much exercise do they really need? Our dog exercise calculator is one place to start. It'll help you understand your individual pup's requirements.

Different breeds have their own preferences and predispositions

When it comes to what kind of exercise is best for our dogs, it's a good idea to consider their breed (or breed mix) and personal tendencies.


  • Some breed groups have a stronger prey drive or tendency to wander. This means they might need more training before you're able to safely unclip their collar.
  • Some dogs were bred to cover long distances. These pups might not feel as fulfilled if they don't get to satisfy those natural instincts.
  • Some pets are companions first and foremost. (Think about modern lap dogs.) Many toy and companion breeds thrive even without covering lots of ground each day.

You can learn more about canine enrichment in this article and exercise overall in this one.

Individual dogs vary

Factors like training, socialization, and the specific environment play crucial roles in both how much fulfillment your dog gets out of being off leash and how safe it is to unclip their tether.

Regardless of breed, any dog can benefit from off-leash exercise with the right training and supervision. And just about any dog can be well taken care of even if they spend most of their days on a leash, too!

A woman and dog run through an open grassy field

How to safely give your dog off-leash exercise

Before allowing your dog off leash:


  • Ensure they've undergone appropriate training and can reliably respond to their recall cue. It's important to have at least basic voice control on any off leash outings.
  • Start in a controlled environment. Gradually progress to more challenging situations.
  • Supervise your dog closely. Be prepared to use a leash if necessary—prioritize the safety of both your dog and others in the community.

You can learn more in our guide to off leash training with your dog!

Alternatives to off-leash adventures with your dog

If fully off-leash exercise isn't feasible for your dog right now, several alternatives can provide plenty of physical and mental stimulation. These activities are enjoyable—for both you and your dog—while ensuring safety and control!

Always consider your dog's individual needs, physical condition, and any behavioral considerations when choosing activities.

Long leash time

Use a long leash or training lead to give your dog more freedom while maintaining control. This allows your dog to explore a larger area while still being connected to you! It can be a great option for casual walks at nearby parks or hiking trails.

If your dog has some off leash reliability but you need them to be tethered for any reason, you can also consider a retractable leash (make sure to use it properly to keep everyone safe).

Structured walks

Instead of casual strolls, incorporate more mental stimulation into your walks. Practice obedience cues or work on leash manners!

Note: Most of your dog's walks should be spent sniffing if possible, though. It's great to practice training skills in moderation—but be sure to prioritize your pup's fulfillment first and foremost.

Enrichment toys

Use toys that engage your dog's mind, such as puzzle feeders, treat-dispensing toys, or toys that encourage problem-solving. These can be mentally stimulating and tire your four-legged friend out.

Read more about enrichment toys here!

Interactive play

Engage in interactive play with your dog using toys like flirt poles, tug toys, balls, and more. This not only provides physical exercise but also strengthens the bond between you and your dog!

Canine sports

Explore canine sports that can be done on-leash or in controlled environments, such as obedience trials, nose work, or rally obedience. You can read more about dog sports here!

Structured playdates

Arrange playdates with other dogs in a safe and enclosed area, like a Sniffspot private dog park that allows dogs off leash. This can provide socialization and play opportunities while maintaining control.

Summary: Does your dog need to be off leash?

Not all dogs necessarily need to—or should—be off-leash. Whether a canine companion can be off-leash safely depends on various factors, including your individual pup's temperament, training, and the environment. Always listen to the dog in front of you!

Ask yourself these final questions:


  • Do you live in an area with widespread leash laws? Can you access safe environments to let your dog off leash, like private Sniffspots?
  • How is your dog's recall? Do you enjoy training new skills?
  • How active is your dog? What are their favorite types of exercise? Are some of those activities much easier off leash than on?
  • Does your dog seem to mind being on a leash? Do they consistently walk faster (or slower) than you do?
  • Are you physically able to manage a long line?

Depending on your answers, you might choose to prioritize off-leash time—or decide that your dog's life is good enough as is.

Trainers that reviewed this article

There is so much misinformation out there. We want to make sure we only provide the highest quality information to our community.

This is the trainer that reviewed this article:

Kelly Hayden, CBCC-KA
Owner & Lead Trainer - Ardent Dog - Certified Separation Anxiety Professional Trainer

Haley Young photo

Haley Young

June 29, 2024

Dog Enrichment

About Sniffspot

Sniffspot is a community marketplace that enables anyone to rent land by-the-hour as a safe and private dog park.

Follow us

Find Sniffspot on your favorite social media

TiktokInstagramFacebookYoutube
Related articles
Explore the Rottweiler: Genuine Tips from Real Dog Owners thumbnailExplore the Rottweiler: Genuine Tips from Real Dog Owners
Explore the Dachshund: Genuine Tips from 9,000+ Owners thumbnailExplore the Dachshund: Genuine Tips from 9,000+ Owners
Get to Know the Vizsla: Real-World Tips from Owners thumbnailGet to Know the Vizsla: Real-World Tips from Owners
All categories

Most recent articles

Explore the Rottweiler: Genuine Tips from Real Dog Owners thumbnailExplore the Rottweiler: Genuine Tips from Real Dog Owners
Explore the Rottweiler: Genuine Tips from Real Dog Owners thumbnail

Explore the Rottweiler: Genuine Tips from Real Dog Owners

Explore the Dachshund: Genuine Tips from 9,000+ Owners thumbnailExplore the Dachshund: Genuine Tips from 9,000+ Owners
Explore the Dachshund: Genuine Tips from 9,000+ Owners thumbnail

Explore the Dachshund: Genuine Tips from 9,000+ Owners

Get to Know the Vizsla: Real-World Tips from Owners thumbnailGet to Know the Vizsla: Real-World Tips from Owners
Get to Know the Vizsla: Real-World Tips from Owners thumbnail

Get to Know the Vizsla: Real-World Tips from Owners

Get to Know the Greyhound: Real-World Tips from Owners thumbnailGet to Know the Greyhound: Real-World Tips from Owners
Get to Know the Greyhound: Real-World Tips from Owners thumbnail

Get to Know the Greyhound: Real-World Tips from Owners

Explore the Belgian Malinois: Insider Tips From Real Dog Owners thumbnailExplore the Belgian Malinois: Insider Tips From Real Dog Owners
Explore the Belgian Malinois: Insider Tips From Real Dog Owners thumbnail

Explore the Belgian Malinois: Insider Tips From Real Dog Owners

Explore the Beagle: Genuine Tips from 9,000+ Owners thumbnailExplore the Beagle: Genuine Tips from 9,000+ Owners
Explore the Beagle: Genuine Tips from 9,000+ Owners thumbnail

Explore the Beagle: Genuine Tips from 9,000+ Owners

Top dog guides per area

Dog training guides

  • How to Deal With Food Aggression in Dogs (Facts + Infographic) thumbnail

    How to Deal With Food Aggression in Dogs (Facts + Infographic)

    Does your dog ever growl when you walk by their food dish? Maybe they get possessive of treats, carrying them far away and giving you side-eye when you start to approach — or snarling at your other pets or children if they get too close.

  • Comprehensive Guide to Scent Training for Dogs (Facts + Infographic) thumbnail

    Comprehensive Guide to Scent Training for Dogs (Facts + Infographic)

    As almost every dog owner is aware, the nose of a dog is an amazing thing. Just as they can pick up sounds we can’t hear, their sense of smell and ability to pick up scents is well beyond ours. In fact, dogs have 40 times the number of olfactory receptors as humans.

  • How Much Does it Cost to Train a Service Dog? thumbnail

    How Much Does it Cost to Train a Service Dog?

    More than 80 million Americans rely on their service dogs to help them navigate the world. Task-trained assistance animals perform a huge range of life-changing—in many cases, life-saving—services: These dogs act as eyes for visually impaired handlers, provide mobility support, alert to seizures and blood sugar crashes, interrupt anxiety attacks, remind their people to take medications, and so much more.

  • What is and How to Handle Potty Training Regression thumbnail

    What is and How to Handle Potty Training Regression

    You thought your dog was house trained. Your home was clean from puddles of pee, those dreaded middle-of-the-night bathroom breaks were behind you, and you loved every minute of dog ownership… until your four-legged best friend started using the bathroom inside again. What’s going on?

  • Coprophagia: Why Does Your Dog Eat Poop? thumbnail

    Coprophagia: Why Does Your Dog Eat Poop?

    Ah, poop. We humans think it’s disgusting… but many of our dogs seem to love the stuff. If you’re wondering why your canine companion tries to eat feces (either their own or that of other animals) you’re not alone!

Dog enrichment guides

  • The Best Dog Water Parks in the United States thumbnail

    The Best Dog Water Parks in the United States

    Do you have a water-loving dog looking to burn some energy? There are countless dog parks to visit throughout our country — but some of them become far too hot in the midday sun to be safe for your pets to play. That’s why we’ve put together a list of some of the best dog water parks throughout the United States! At these locations, your pup can frolic, splash, and swim to their heart’s content.

  • Best Toys for Herding Dogs thumbnail

    Best Toys for Herding Dogs

    * All Sniffspot articles are reviewed by certified trainers for quality, please see bottom of article for details *

  • The Best Dog Toys for Aggressive Chewers (Facts + Infographic) thumbnail

    The Best Dog Toys for Aggressive Chewers (Facts + Infographic)

    Does your dog destroy every toy you give them? Is your house littered with remnants of fabric and stuffing of all different sizes? Are you tired of investing in “indestructible” toys only for your pup to still dismantle—or worse, get bored of—them in just a few days?

  • Dog Exercise Calculator: How Much Exercise Does Your Dog Need? thumbnail

    Dog Exercise Calculator: How Much Exercise Does Your Dog Need?

    You’ve been told your dog needs regular exercise. There’s a reason “walking the dog” is a classic daily activity: Frequent excursions give your pup a chance to experience the world, maintain a healthy weight, and — most importantly — spend time with you! Consistent physical activity can also improve their strength, muscle tone, coordination, and mental ability over time.

  • Complete Guide To Herding With Dogs thumbnail

    Complete Guide To Herding With Dogs

    * All Sniffspot articles are reviewed by certified trainers for quality, please see bottom of article for details *

Dog reactivity guides

Sniffspot community guides

  • The State of Public Dog Parks Across the United States thumbnail

    The State of Public Dog Parks Across the United States

    From 2009 to 2020, there was a 40 percent increase in the development of public dog parks. Designated spots for canine exercise have become commonplace in every major city in North America — many pet owners won’t even consider renting an apartment that doesn’t have its own fenced-in pet area for their canine companions.

  • How This Family is Affording Their Dream Property Through Renting it Hourly to Dogs thumbnail

    How This Family is Affording Their Dream Property Through Renting it Hourly to Dogs

    Thousand Oaks, California has been a safe haven for Sniffspot host, Jen, since childhood. Having grown up in busy Santa Barbara, Jen, an introvert from an early age, would seek out solitude and serenity away from tourists attractions and droves of people visiting from elsewhere. “My grandparents own 60 acres about a 30 minute drive from here, and I grew up spending every summer and every holiday visiting them on the ranch,” Jen explained. “In Santa Barbara, we wouldn't go to the beach on the weekend because that's where everybody was, so you'd find places off the beaten path where the tourists weren't. For me, the ranch was just my happy place.” 

  • Host Tips: Ellen K. What Makes Sniffspot Successful for Me thumbnail

    Host Tips: Ellen K. What Makes Sniffspot Successful for Me

    Ellen is the host of Country Pasture Getaway, one of Sniffspot's most popular sniff spots. She has taken the time to write up the lessons she has learned about how to be a great sniff spot host.

  • How this Oregon Farmer is Making a Business From Renting Her Land to Dogs thumbnail

    How this Oregon Farmer is Making a Business From Renting Her Land to Dogs

    Just 20 minutes outside of the busy city of Portland, Oregon, and settled right on the banks of the Columbia River, you’ll find what countless visitors have flocked to the area in search of – mountain views, crisp, clean air, and running water for miles. What you might not expect to find, however, is a hidden oasis designed just for dogs and their people, owned and operated by a farming couple and enjoyed by visitors on two legs, and four.  

  • Host Tips: Fran T. Providing Great Guest Service at our Spot thumbnail

    Host Tips: Fran T. Providing Great Guest Service at our Spot

    Fran is the host of Ranch Setting, one of Sniffspot's most popular spots. She has taken the time to write up the lessons she has learned about how to be a great Sniffspot host.

Top dog trainers in the US

City dog parks guides

  • The Best Indoor Dog Parks in the United States thumbnail

    The Best Indoor Dog Parks in the United States

    Looking for a space to play with your dog no matter what the weather’s like outside? Look no further than our list of the best indoor dog parks in the United States! These climate-controlled spaces are growing in popularity as pet ownership increases throughout the country. As a bonus, many of them also offer dog training, boarding, grooming, or daycare services on the premises.

  • The Best Off-Leash Dog Parks in the United States thumbnail

    The Best Off-Leash Dog Parks in the United States

    Looking for the perfect place to play with your dog? We’ve got you covered! It’s hard to narrow down, but we’ve put together some of the best off-leash dog parks throughout the country so you can plan your next adventure — along with a checklist of what to bring, what to know beforehand, and some frequently asked questions.

  • The Best Las Vegas, Nevada Dog Parks thumbnail

    The Best Las Vegas, Nevada Dog Parks

    Looking for the perfect place to play with your dog in Las Vegas? We’ve got you covered! Take a look at the best local dog parks to plan for your next adventure in Sin City.

  • The Best United States Dog Parks thumbnail

    The Best United States Dog Parks

    Looking for the perfect place to play with your dog? We’ve got you covered!

  • The Best Portland, Oregon Dog Parks thumbnail

    The Best Portland, Oregon Dog Parks

    Looking for the perfect place to play with your dog in Portland? We’ve got you covered! Take a look at the best local dog parks and plan for your next adventure in the City of Roses.

Dogs breeds

  • Explore the German Shepherd Dog: Genuine Tips from Owners thumbnail

    Explore the German Shepherd Dog: Genuine Tips from Owners

    Discover the German Shepherd Dog, a breed celebrated for its intelligence, loyalty, and versatility. Known for its impressive size and smooth, graceful movements, German Shepherds excel in various roles, including as guide, therapy, bomb detection, and police dogs, while being a devoted family companion.

  • Explore the Labrador Retriever: Real Tips from Owners thumbnail

    Explore the Labrador Retriever: Real Tips from Owners

    Discover the Labrador Retriever, a breed celebrated for its playful nature, affectionate temperament, and trainability. Labradors are known for their friendly demeanor and adaptability, making them perfect family companions and versatile working dogs. As one of the most popular types of retrievers, Labs are ideal companions for various lifestyles and are recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC) as an excellent breed for families.

  • Explore the Golden Retriever: Genuine Tips from 9,000+ Owners thumbnail

    Explore the Golden Retriever: Genuine Tips from 9,000+ Owners

    Discover the Golden Retriever, a popular breed celebrated for its affectionate, playful, and trainable nature. Considered a large dog, Golden Retrievers were originally bred in Scotland for hunting and retrieving game beginning in the 1860s. Today, they're recognized by the Kennel Club and the American Kennel Club (AKC) as one of the most beloved companion dog breeds.

  • Explore the American Staffordshire Terrier: Genuine Tips from 9,000+ Owners thumbnail

    Explore the American Staffordshire Terrier: Genuine Tips from 9,000+ Owners

    Discover the American Staffordshire Terrier, a distinct breed celebrated for its playful, friendly, and loyal nature. Often confused with the Staffordshire Bull Terrier, a separate breed of British origin, the American Staffordshire Terrier (AmStaff) is considered a medium-sized dog. While both breeds share some similarities, the AmStaff is generally larger and has been developed as a distinct breed in the United States.

  • Explore the Australian Shepherd: Genuine Tips from 9,000+ Owners thumbnail

    Explore the Australian Shepherd: Genuine Tips from 9,000+ Owners

    Discover the Australian Shepherd, an AKC breed celebrated for its trainable, playful, and affectionate nature. Despite its name, the Australian Shepherd is actually a native breed to the United States, originally developed to breed on farms and ranches. Considered a medium dog, Australian Shepherds were bred for herding beginning in the 1950s. As one of the high-energy breeds, Aussies are known for their boundless energy and need for regular exercise, including aerobic exercise.

Top dog names in the US

  • Top 1,000 Most Popular Dog Names thumbnail

    Top 1,000 Most Popular Dog Names

    Looking for the perfect dog name for your new pup? We have created filterable lists of dog names from our database of hundreds of thousands of Sniffspot users. You can filter by gender, breed and state to find the most cute, unique and creative dog names.
  • Most Popular Male Dog Names thumbnail

    Most Popular Male Dog Names

    Looking for the perfect dog name for your new male pup? We have created filterable lists of male dog names from our database of hundreds of thousands of Sniffspot users. You can filter by gender, breed and state to find the most cute, unique and creative male dog names.
  • Most Popular Female Dog Names thumbnail

    Most Popular Female Dog Names

    Looking for the perfect dog name for your new female pup? We have created filterable lists of female dog names from our database of hundreds of thousands of Sniffspot users. You can filter by gender, breed and state to find the most cute, unique and creative female dog names.
  • Most Popular Golden Retriever Names thumbnail

    Most Popular Golden Retriever Names

    Welcome to our comprehensive list of Golden Retriever dog names, curated from our vast database of Sniffspot users. Filter through hundreds of thousands of options by gender, breed, and state to discover the most adorable, original, and imaginative names for your beloved Golden Retriever.
  • Most Popular Labrador Retriever Names thumbnail

    Most Popular Labrador Retriever Names

    Welcome to our Labrador Retriever dog names page! Here you can browse through filterable lists of names for your beloved furry friend, ranging from cute and classic to unique and creative options. Our database of hundreds of thousands of Sniffspot users ensures you'll find the perfect name for your Labrador Retriever, whether you're seeking a name for a male or female, based on breed or state.

Top dog rescues in the US