Why You Should Walk Your Dog

A daily walk is perhaps one of the best gifts that you can give your dog. The benefits are many and they range from the physical to the emotional. If you need a little inspiration to get the leash out, here are some of the top reasons for a daily walk.

To Maintain Weight

Your dog is just like you, they need exercise. There is nothing worse than a sedentary life for your dog and for you. Excess weight contributes to both a shorter lifespan and a reduced quality of life. A daily 15 minute walk can help you burn 50 to 100 calories, depending on your weight. It is just as beneficial for your dog.

For A Healthy Digestive System

Walking helps promote regularity and a healthy digestive system. If your dog suffers from constipation or has irregular movements, a walk can significantly benefit them. For best results, take your walk at a set time of day.

For A Healthy Urinary Tract

Regular emptying of the bladder is healthy for your dog. Holding it in, so to speak, can lead to painful and harmful bladder infections. Remember, your dog only gets to go potty when you take them out, so get them out of the house more often.

To Maintain Healthy Joints

As the saying goes, use it or lose it. A daily walk will help your dog work out their joints so they can maintain their mobility as they age. If you want your pet to still be able to get up without pain as they age, hit the trail.

Stimulation For The Mind

How boring is it to sit in the house all day? Your dog probably does not have a favorite TV show, so the only entertainment they get is a trip outside. A daily walk can help stimulate your dogs mind which will improve their quality of life.

As A Bonding Experience

Your walk is a time for you and your dog to be alone together. You and your pet, exploring the world together. It is what they were born to do and they will appreciate.

For Making Friends

A walk is great for getting you out of your home and everyone loves a dog. It is a great way to meet new people and get to know your neighborhood. A dog is perhaps the best conversation starter.

Introducing Your Dog To Walking

If you have gotten away from dog walking, you will need to ease your dog back into the swing of things. The last thing that you would want to do is go from nothing to walking two miles a day. Your dog will not limit themselves, so you will have to do it.

Start Slow

Start with a short walk that is an appropriate distance for your breed. With a larger dog like a Great Dane or German Shepherd, a leisurely stroll around the block is appropriate for a start. For smaller dogs like a Pomeranian or a Pug, that might be too far.

Above all else, read your dog for cues to how they are doing. If they look tired and start excessively panting, back off.

Work Up The Distance

Over the course of several weeks to months, gradually increase the distance that you walk. There is no rush, so take your time to avoid unnecessary aches or stress son the joint.

Keep The Scenery Fresh

You and your dog will enjoy things more if you keep the walk fresh. Explore different parts of your neighborhood or visit new parks. If nothing else, simply reversing the direction of your walk could keep things interesting.