Summer is here and now it the perfect opportunity to get your dog to exercise outside and walking is a great way to start. Why is it important to walk your dog?
Training
When it comes to puppies, the main goal is for your new pup to get used to being attached to you by a lead. Short walks are a good start. Five to fifteen minutes are sufficient. Pick a safe spot where you are able to show him how to slow down, stop and go. Take a short break for positive reinforcement. As he learns to listen for comments give him more praise and perhaps have some training treats handy.
Mental Stimulation
Although you may have a backyard, it doesn’t provide the variety of sensory stimulation most dogs need in order for them not to be bored. Dogs like to go outdoors to sniff and engage with their environment. When out for a walk, allow your dog to investigate his surroundings. Dogs gain a lot of information of the world through their nose. It’s like surfing the internet for them.
Exercise
Regular exercise is essential for your dog. It will help to keep him strong no matter his age, size, breed or gender. Physical activity is part of a dog’s overall health. It’s extremely helpful with muscle growth and preventing obesity in addition to feeding him a healthy dog food.
Elimination
Along with a good diet and perhaps a holistic supplement, walking helps with constipation and inappropriate elimination. Walking can help improve your dog’s digestive health as he strolls his way to optimal health. Once you have a consistent walking schedule, your dog will know when to go potty and hopefully have a regular bowel movement.
Do you walk your dog? Share any tips in the comments below.
Becky
Walk my dog? I walk that silly mutt at least 4 or 5 times a day! He stays indoors all day, and gets bored… and so do I… so we get out quite a bit. Mostly it’s just a stroll around a block or two… and sometimes I find little treasures like a coin, a dollar bill, or even a piece of jewelry. The only time(s) I don’t like getting out is when it’s too hot, cold, or rainy.
Dee
My dog/dogs were and still are aways walked first thing in the morning and in all kinds of weather. I always had to take my kids out in the same conditions and found they
were the healthiest in the entire family as their systems became accustomed to the seasons. Same for the dogs who don’t mind snow, rain, cold and heat as long as it’s not overdone. As a retiree I find it gives me a reason to get out of bed even when I don’t want to which also means having a dog is one reason to live.
Barbara Duke
Since I’m gone from home about 12 hours a day, Monday-Friday. I walk my dogs about 4 times a day, she even has a rain cape with hood. She got an ear infection not long after I adopted her, vet said when it rains try and keep the ears as dry as possible. That moisture can cause ear infections. Weekends since she’s home all day, Monday-Friday, she pretty much goes every time the car goes. If it’s warm, I leave the air on to run in for short errands, lock it and put the emergency brake on. If it’s cold and its just a short stop to run in for an errand. I leave the heat on, lock it and put the emergency brake on. I know I may shouldn’t do it like that, but in a way I guess I feel guilty for her having to be home alone for 12 hours a day, Monday-Friday. Before her, I had multiple dogs, so they kept each other company. Maybe in time I may get a second dog, but my place is small. I’m planning on getting a house. But still I like the one dog. And she is recovering from cancer surgery and will start radiation soon.
Glynis Porter
I so related to your comments. I too feel guilty if I leave my pup at home…he loves to go riding in the car.
But think carefully about leaving yours in a running car, esp in the heat. If the motor turns off and the car quits running and cooling , and the heat is like it is here in Texas…your pup might be in a car that would heat up in no time…and we all know how that ends. I too have thought of another buddy dog, that does keep them entertained, but I also just like the upkeep and expense of one dog. I certainly understand your feelings. Having pups is like having children…there are def headaches and concerns at times. But the good times with them def overrides the negative aspects.
Cin
Our little 5 pound poodle, Topher & I walk a mile almost every morning, spring through fall. I can’t take the heat so we leave early while it’s still kinda cool out. Some days it’s really hard for me to do this, but I know it’s good for both of us, so we do it anyway. When it’s winter, & too slick & cold to go, I throw toys for him for at least 30 minutes. He loves to play fetch, & we have a pretty open house, so he gets some good running in. Cutest, best little dog in the world! Our beautiful little Topher Dahling. . .
Martina Riordon
I take my pit puppy on a jogging path every morning. We see lots of wildlife, baby animals in the spring and changing colors of the trees throughout the year. We get out early enough that I can let him race around and get the early morning smells. It’s a wonderful time for both of us. Then he comes into the office with me and is pretty mellow.
Jennifer
I live in NYC and walk my dog 4-5 times per day! Hands down, her favorite to do is go for a walk! She LOVES not only the exercise, but all the sights and smells.