Why it’s Important to Take Your Dog for Walks

Walking your dog is an essential part of being a dog owner. Walking the dog is not just about your dog using the washroom. There are, in fact, a number of different health and overall lifestyle benefits that naturally come from walks with you and fido.

Bonding Time for you and your Pup

Long walks are the perfect time to bond with your four-legged friend. Through walking, you are given a chance to get to know your dog’s habits and your dog to spend time with his or her owner. Plus, once you get back from a long walk, you two can cuddle up on the couch and watch some movies together.

Keeps your Dog in Good Shape

Consistent walks can keep your dog’s weight manageable. If your dog develops an obesity problem, it could be followed by a number of health conditions later in life like high cholesterol, heart problems, joint issues, and difficulty breathing. If you want to keep your dog in shape physically, you need to be walking your dog at least twice a day, if not more.

Keeps your Dog Happy

Your dog’s physical health is not the only kind of health promoted by walks. Your dog’s mental health is dependent on their physical education as well. Your dog will get to know their surroundings and become accustomed to venturing out into the world and coming back. Only letting your dog run around a yard limits their mental ability where nice long walks can make them happy.

A Time to Train your Dog

Regular walks are a great opportunity to teach your dog good behaviour. With a leash in hand, you can teach them how to stay near you rather than straying away on the walk. You can also teach your dog to sit, stay or lie down all while on walks.

Social Interaction for your Dog

Taking your dog on a walk is a great way to socialize them with other people and other dogs. Learning how to properly interact with other people and other dogs is essential to developing good behaviour and manners.

Regulates Digestion

Finally, going on walks regulates digestion. Your dog probably will get used to using the bathroom on a schedule when you take them for regular walks. They will learn to “hold it” because they know that they will be able to relieve themselves very soon, and subsequently, they will learn to go when they can so they don’t make a mess.

Is your dog having problems walking or not going to the bathroom regularly? Call the Animal Clinic of East Durham to book an appointment and get checked out.