Exercising a cocker spaniel puppy

Question
QUESTION: We are just taking over a 6 month old cocker spaniel puppy.  How much exercise should we be giving him on the lead?  I wondered at what age about would he be able to come on one of our rambling groups outings.  We usually do about 6 miles a ramble with a stop after about 3 miles for lunch and a rest.

ANSWER: At six months he'll be able to handle quite a long hike.  The minimum "ideal" is at least one hour a day.

However I have to add it'll all depend on what condition he's in - what he's been fed and how much he's been exercised.  A dog who's had 10 minute walks can't instantly go 6 miles just as we couldn't.

They're so loaded with excess energy at this age that I'd be hard put to put a limit on walks.  Of course, weather plays a big part also.
Either very hot or very cold isn't good.  And be sure to take water along for him.

I'd say start him out with a good long one hour walk on leash and see if he's ready to stop or press on.

Have you any ideas on food?  Good nutrition is the total key to good health.  I like Merrick - Innova EVO.  With a minimum of half kibble.
The EVO kibble is great (no grains) and Merrick offers a huge variety of protein sources.  Variety is important.

Best of luck with your new boy and do write anytime with any other questions.
Delores
p.s.  A tired dog is a good dog :)

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Our six month old rehomed cocker spaniel barks a lot because he wants to go back out into the garden to play.  He had been out for hours playing with our grandsons and I needed to come in and get on with some chores.  He barked at the window for ages even though I distracted him he went back to barking.  How can I stop this.  he is good in every other way.
Also he does not eat all his dried food at once.  this may be because we have just got him and he is too excited to eat.
Thank you for your help.

Answer
Before I suggest any tactics to stop this, I'd like to know how much training he's had and what basic commands he knows.

NO?  SIT?  STAY?  DOWN?

Now, the food - he doesn't like it.  What are you feeding?  How often?
At six months he's in a massive growth spurt so needs premium nutrition and, if possible, 3 meals a day.  

And yes, we can stop the barking :)  But do cut him a bit of slack because you and his new home are all things he's just getting used to.

However - you don't "distract" - you command.  But fill me in on what he knows and I'll explain how to stop this.
Delores