Dogs love going for walks for so many reasons. Over our many years of experience with dog owners, we often hear them say, “Oh, he’s so small, he doesn’t need a walk. We just let him run around in the garden.” While it’s great to let them run around, dogs need more than just exercise. They need to explore, read the pee-mails, and leave their own messages.
It’s true that your dog needs time outside, but taking them for a walk is just as important as letting them run in the yard. Your dog gets so much from going on walks. They love sniffing around different areas, and it helps to stimulate their senses and tire them out.
Dogs Need Walks For Business
Some dogs enjoy their walks as a way to take care of their “business” outside. Additionally, walking is an excellent opportunity for them to stay physically healthy.
According to research done by the RSPCA, vets reported that 33.5% of dogs are overweight, and 8% of those dogs are actually obese. Typically, this is caused by overfeeding and not providing enough exercise.
Similar to humans, dogs need a balanced diet and regular exercise to stay in good shape and be healthy.
Luckily, taking walks is a simple and effective way to keep your dog healthy. Aim to walk for 30 minutes, five times a week. Begin with a brisk pace for the first half of the walk, then slow down to let your dog explore and sniff around. Of course, check with your doctor that it is ok for you to do this exercise and moderate walks in hot weather, walking in the cooler times of the day.
Dogs Enjoy Walks for Stimulation
Did you know that a dog’s sense of smell is 10,000 to 100,000 times more acute than a human’s? When your furry friend stops to sniff around, they’re not just curious about the surroundings. Exploring the outdoors and using their sense of smell is how they connect with the world around them.
A leisurely stroll in the neighborhood offers mental stimulation that their own yard and home may not provide. So, why not give them the chance to sniff to their heart’s content?
Friendly Tips for Walking With Your Pup on Sunny Days
If the sun is shining bright and you’re planning a walk with your furry friend, don’t forget to pack plenty of water and a portable bowl. Keep an eye out for any signs that your dog might be getting thirsty.
Remember to watch out for hot pavement that can hurt your dog’s paws. It’s best to schedule your walks for early mornings or late evenings, or choose shaded paths whenever possible.
Some dogs may need sunscreen, especially those with short or light-colored fur or areas with less hair like the nose, ears, and belly. Like us, these pups can get sunburned too. If your dog falls into this category, apply some sunscreen before heading out. Don’t forget that UV rays can be strong even on cloudy days.
Friendly Tips for Walking Your Dog on Chilly Days
During really cold weather, short-haired or senior dogs might feel the chill. If you notice that your furry friend is shivering while out for a walk, consider buying them a cozy jacket or stylish sweater.
If your dog ends up getting wet during a walk on a cold day, it’s a good idea to gently dry their paws with a towel once you’re back home. This will help remove any dampness, prevent irritation (and keep your floors clean too).
Here’s some great places to walk your dog:
Dog friendly parks in Victoria https://www.parks.vic.gov.au/things-to-do/dog-friendly-parks
Why not try one of these off-leash dog areas in Melbourne.
See this extensive list of the top council dog parks and walking trails in Adelaide.
Here’s a list of favourite dog parks in Brisbane.
See this list of the best dog off-leash areas in Canberra.
See the best dog-friendly beaches on the Gold Coast.
Here’s a list of the 11 best dog friendly beaches on the Sunshine Coast.
Explore some dog-friendly outdoor areas and off-leash spots across Newcastle.
12 of the Best Off-Leash Dog Parks in Sydney
Got a holiday planned?
Are you worried about where to leave your dog when you next go away?
At “Don’t Fret Pet!” we have a team of wonderful dog minders who are all interviewed by us. We ensure that they are dog lovers who are minding dogs for the right reason. And, we save you lots of stress and time as we do the matching for you. See more information here.