Walking your dog is an activity that’s been around for ages. If you don’t own a dog or walk one, chances are you’ve seen your neighbors, family members or friends take their canine companion out for a stroll a time or two. While most people walk their dogs to help their pets burn off energy and maintain a healthy lifestyle, many don’t realize that going for a stroll with your pup can also benefit you and your dog’s health and well-being! The list below contains just some of the many benefits the companionship of a pet provides:
Increases Socialization. If you own a pet, you’ve probably found yourself walking alongside a fellow dog walker or going to a dog park or pet-friendly event like Bark in the Park. All these activities are a fantastic way to meet like-minded pet owners in your community while providing socialization for you and your pet! A lack of socialization in dogs, especially puppies, can lead to behavioral problems later in life, so it’s important that they’re exposed to fresh faces regularly. If you’re worried this may be too overwhelming for you or your dog, start by inviting one or two friends and their dogs to do a group walk in a more secluded area. Either way, going for walks will allow you and your pup to interact with others. There’s no easier way to strike up a conversation with someone than by asking them about their dog!
Creates Routine. Humans and dogs are creatures of habit, meaning we both thrive on consistency. Walking every single day (possibly multiple times a day) will help develop a routine that you and your dog can use to your advantage. If possible, try to go on your walk(s) around the same time of day. Once you and your dog are familiar with this routine, it will become a natural part of your schedule and will be easier to adhere to. You and your pet will begin to expect and look forward to your walks together!
Decreases Boredom. Going on walks can keep things interesting and exciting for you and your dog. Even if you’re walking in the same place or at the same time, the people, weather and environment are constantly changing. Keeping your dog’s mind and body stimulated can help with destructive behaviors in the home, such as barking or shredding furniture. If you want to make things even more exciting, walk your dog in various places and switch it up every so often. A new route allows you to explore your community and even discover more pet-friendly parks or businesses you can go to in the future!
Provides Training Opportunities. Walking your dog provides a great space for one-on-one training and can even help prepare your dog for future social interactions with other pets and people. According to VCA Hospitals, walking can improve a dog’s digestive and urinary health. If you’re trying to potty train a dog, what better way to teach them than to take them for regular walks outside so they can have an easier time going? If your dog is already housebroken, you could use walks to practice other commands or your dog’s recall. Not only will your dog have fun on their walk, but they’ll also be working towards becoming the best dog they can be! If you’re looking for training tips and tricks during walks, check out our new virtual positive reinforcement training program Take the Lead.
Strengthens Your Bond. Regular walks give you and your dog the chance to spend quality time together. You both can get out of the house and soak up some much-needed sunshine. Walking can also help build trust and strengthen the relationship between the two of you. This is especially true if you have a demanding work or home life that sometimes gets in the way of you spending time with your pet. Imagine how great it would feel to go on a nice walk with your furry friend after a long day at the office!