DogsHealthTraining & BehaviourWhy Walking Is So Beneficial For Your Dog

Not only do dogs absolutely love walk time, but regular walks are vital to your pet’s health, too. Obesity in pets is associated with a number of medical complaints including osteoarthritis, cardiovascular disease, liver disease and insulin resistance. Most dogs need to be walked at least once each day, however the breed of dog you have, as well as its level of fitness and age, will help determine how long and how vigorous their walk should be.

Not only is a regular walk great for exercise, but it provides essential mental stimulation for your dog that can help ward off boredom and control destructive behaviour that often occur as a result of a lack of exercise.

 

Most dog breeds were developed with a specific purpose in mind, for example, sporting, working, herding and so forth. Many modern day dogs don’t get opportunities to do what their breed instincts tell them to do, and often your pet’s backyard simply doesn’t provide the variety of sensory stimulation most dogs require to stay entertained while you’re out and about busy doing human things.

Here are 4 reasons why walking your dog is so important:

1. Keeps them healthy. Exercise is good for us all, and our pets are no different! Dogs have several health issues that can be prevented or treated by regular exercise and a healthy diet. Walks are also beneficial to your pet’s digestive system, and can aid in relieving constipation.
2. Keeps them happy. Sitting in the backyard all day can get pretty lonesome. Regular walks are great for overcoming boredom, plus they make dogs very happy. They love to check out the sights and smells and will really look forward to spending time with you.
3. Assists with social skills. If you have a timid or fearful pet, regular walks can help to build confidence and trust. You will likely be exposing your pet to other humans and animals alike, and with you there for comfort your pet can learn to be comfortable around them.
4. Curbs bad behaviour. A dog that doesn’t receive sufficient exercise can easily become destructive and mischievous. Regular walks provide new opportunities for training, discipline and, of course, fun time whilst burning up plenty of pent-up energy. You and your dog will bond throughout your walk, and you’ll be thankful for their improved behaviours around the house, too!

 

We all wish we could make more time for taking our dogs out for regular walks and exercise, but for many of us, our hectic schedules really get in the way. Even the most devoted dog owners have suffered the guilt of staring down at the sad puppy dog eyes of a dog waiting at the door for a walk.

Thankfully, you don’t have to feel guilty or find crazy alternatives to give your dog some much-needed exercise (such as this or this or this or especially this). After all, that’s what we’re here for!