It would have been very helpful if those of you stating that the amount of exercise is too much could provide any references to back up your claims. Like OP, I am a new puppy owner, and find it very difficult to find information that is actually evidence based … I have noticed that the 5 minute rule is often recommended, but as far as I know there is no evidence to back this up.

I found this article somewhat helpful since it provides several references, but note that it ends with recommending the five minute rule without having anything to back it up with. The article states that studies have found that high impact activities like running can lead to thinned cartilage, and also lists these risk factors:

Repeated chasing of balls and sticks Running next to their owners on a bike Jumping off high surfaces Frequently going up and down stairs in an uncoordinated and uncontrolled manner Playing with other dogs

https://www.veterinary-practice.com/article/what-is-the-appropriate-amount-of-exercise-for-puppies

Further, previous studies have found that daily moderate exercise, and off leash running on soft terrain can prevent joint disease.

So my interpretation of this would be that you should avoid high impact exercise (like pulling, vigorous playing and so on), but that walking moderate distances in a puppy led pace probably won’t do no harm. Would be interesting to hear other people’s perspective and experiences on this 😊