The Many Benefits of Dog Walking
Dogs are naturally curious and inquisitive. They love exploring the world around them. Every walk is a new experience for canines. All the sights, sounds, and smells along the way keep them stimulated and learning interesting things about the environment around them.
Taking different routes or going for walks in unfamiliar neighborhoods makes for an even more exciting experience, allowing your pup to take in completely fresh sights and scents. All of this keeps their brain active and flourishing. This is just one of the many benefits a walk with your dog can provide.
More ways walks help keep your dog thriving:
Weight control: Regular exercise helps your dog burn extra calories and maintain a healthy weight.
Joint health: Have you ever had stiff legs after sitting for a long time? Your dog has similar joints, so regular motion can help them stay comfortable and in good shape.
Digestive and urinary health: Holding in urine and bowel movements isn’t good for anyone, person or dog. Regular walks help keep your dog, well, regular. And all that peeing around the neighborhood doesn’t just support their urinary health. It also lets them communicate with other dogs.
Stress relief: Moving and engaging with the environment outside of the home can also help your dog release pent-up nervous energy after an ordeal, like a long car ride, trip to the vet, or grooming visit.
Training opportunities: A walk is an excellent time for your dog to practice skills they’re learning, like “Heel,” “Wait,” “Sit,” and of course, the all-important “Leave it.”
Mental stimulation: Sniffing is mentally enriching and rewarding for dogs. It also gives them the opportunity to learn about their surroundings. Plus, walks offer the chance to play stimulating games with your pup.
Socialization: Dogs are social creatures, and walks give them a chance to see their friends and make new ones.
So, how long should you walk your dog?
A dog’s needs can vary based on breed, age, size, and overall health. But, a good rule of thumb is this:
Smaller breeds (chihuahuas, mini dachshunds, miniature poodles, etc.) need about 30 minutes a day, which can be divided into two 15-minute walks if necessary.
Medium-size breeds (boxers, whippets, cocker spaniels, etc.) need roughly 40–80 minutes of outdoor walking per day.
Large breeds (labs, golden retrievers, huskies, collies, shepherds, etc.) are usually much more active and have a lot more energy. Therefore, they require a lot more activity—up to two hours of walking every day.
If you aren’t sure how long you should walk your dog for every day, consult your vet to get personal recommendations. It’s also a good idea to become more informed about some of your particular breed’s idiosyncrasies that can make outdoor walks a little more challenging. For example, short-nosed breeds like pugs can overheat more easily than other breeds, so you may need to adjust their walk schedules accordingly, especially in warmer months.