The Importance Of A Daily Walk

The importance of a daily walk matters when it comes to the health of you and your dog, as dogs need a daily walk like fish need water.

Does the sound of a jingling leash or mere mention of the word “walk” send your dog into a state of excitement? This is normal behavior and there are many reasons why dogs get so much joy from walking. Here’s why the daily walk is essential for your dog’s health and wellbeing:

Instinct: Before they were domesticated, dogs in the wild used to roam in packs for miles and miles.  Today our canines live in homes with humans, but still have that natural urge to explore the outdoors and roam. Daily walks help fulfill these natural instincts and give your dog a sense of purpose.

 

Boredom: Bored dogs get into mischief, especially those bred for sporting or herding purposes. If left alone for long periods of time, a dog might destroy your favorite shoes, bark too much, or chew furniture to relieve pent-up energy. Daily walks help tire a dog’s body and mind, making it less prone to seeking it’s own entertainment.

Mental and Physical Stimulation: This might surprise you, but dogs don’t self-exercize or self-entertain. A disciplined walk fulfills a dog’s primal needs and stimulates the mind differently than leaving one to its own devices in a yard or with a toy.

Weight Management: Dogs are just as prone to obesity as humans. Obese dogs are at risk for developing Type 2 Diabetes, heart disease, certain forms of cancer, and high blood pressure.  Extra weight also stresses dogs’ joints causing arthritis and injuries. If your dog is overweight, consult your vet about developing a weight loss plan.

It’s understandable that many of us have days where we just don’t have time to take our dog on a walk or need to go out of town. This is where we’d love to help! In Home Pet Sitters offers a variety of private dog walking services. Contact us to learn more about our team of dog walkers.