One of the easiest ways to have a happy, healthy dog is simply to walk. It doesn’t have to be a long walk but as you’ll see in the following tips, walking is beneficial for your pup’s mind and body. We all love our dogs and want them to be happy and healthy for a long, long time.
1-But my dog plays in the back yard all day. Isn’t that enough exercise?
· Playing in the back yard all day would equate to kids spending the entire school day in recess. It could actually over-stimulate some dogs-not make them more calm.
· Walking creates structure for them and some dogs look forward to being walked at the same time each day-during lunch, for instance.
· They may get bored and try-perhaps successfully-to escape the back yard.
2-An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.
· Regular exercise such as walking may help prevent joint disease and obesity that come with a sedentary lifestyle. And we all want our dogs to live as long as possible.
· It’s the same for our canine friends as with us; if they don’t use it, they’ll lose it. Increased mobility through walks keeps dogs healthy longer and will help burn fat, especially during the winter months.
· Walking is free, so do what you can now for free to avoid large vet bills later in the dog’s life.
3-Fluffy down the street got a new collar? There’s a new dog in the ‘hood?
· Dogs are busybodies-they want to know what’s going on in their neighborhood. Regular walks allow them to explore and experience new things.
· Dogs are social creatures. They love to read their pee-mail to see what dogs and other animals have been in their neighborhood recently.
4-A brisk walk gets the blood pumping.
· With no outlet for their energy, some dogs (especially young dogs and high energy breeds) turn to destructive behavior as an outlet.
· Giving them a break will stimulate their mind and body and keep them calm until you get home.
5-Ho hum! I’m bored.
· A walk decreases loneliness and breaks up the boredom of being in a house or crate while you work.
· Pet cams and treat devices can only do so much while you’re at work. Dogs like human companionship. They don’t watch TV or curl up with a good book as we do during quiet times so they are either sleeping or spending time wondering when you’ll be home.
6-Gotta go, gotta go, GOTTA GO!
· Dogs, especially puppies and seniors, can’t hold their urine 8 or more hours while you’re at work. Waiting that long to urinate could cause a mess you’ll have to clean up or could contribute to a urinary tract infection.
7-Enjoy your time together.
· Walking is a time to improve the dog’s obedience skills such as ignoring other dogs and to perfect loose leash walking.
· It gives you a chance to bond with your dog. Chat about your day. Tell him your problems. He’ll be an eager listener!!
***Don’t have time to walk your dog? We’ll do it for you. Contact us at (540) 353-2485 or info@thewell-traineddog.com to book service.
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