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Walking, one of the greatest and simplest forms of exercise that you can add to your dog’s daily routine. No matter what is dog’s breed or size, it is a must to engage him in physical activities daily. The benefits are tremendous.
But besides all that, you may always wonder that How often do you walk your dog? Well, that depends on a few factors like your dog’s age, health condition, breed, and size.
So, go through this article to get precise knowledge about dogs and walking. Let’s first begin with an explanation of the main factors that greatly influence how many times you should walk your dog.
Dog’s Age
Age plays a major role here. A young dog of any breed has more energy. That’s the reason why they usually demand more exercise than middle-aged and senior dogs. Sometimes you may have also noticed that young dogs spend much more time playing than older dogs.
According to American Kennel Club, older dogs are more prone to diseases like arthritis. So, it is a thing to remember that if any dog is suffering from a disease, it lowers their stamina. Maybe they are mentally willing to go for a walk but their physical health condition is holding them back.
Dog’s Health Condition
As now I mentioned above that any disease can lower the stamina of your dog. If your dog is suffering from any disease or injury, talk to your vet. A vet is a perfect person who can provide you a proper exercise schedule for your beloved pooch.
Dog’s Breed
Your dog’s breed is also one of the most essential factors to consider.
Dog breeds that are known as high-energy dog breeds such as Terries, Australian Shephard, Border collies, Labrador, and golden retrievers. They demand more frequent walks to get full benefits.
Dog breeds that are known as less active dog breeds such as Bulldogs, Mastiffs, Great Danes, Newfoundlands, and Greyhound. They may need only one or two walks every day to get enough benefits.
How Often Do You Walk Your Dog?
So, how many times you should walk your dog?
Well, there is not any perfect formula that can exactly tell us how often should walk your dog. But generally, 30 minutes to 2 hours of exercise is sufficient for most dogs, according to Outdoor Dog Adventures. You can break it into 2 to 3 times walks every day. There is also a possibility that a few dogs need more. So Always remember that exact numbers depend on the dog to dog.
If you are just starting out with walking your dog. Start with 30 minutes and gradually make the walks longer.
What Is The Best Time To Take Your Dog For a Walk?
I’m sure you have always or at least once thought that what’s the best time to walk my dog? Morning, Afternoon, Evening, or Night? Along with how often do you walk your dog, this is another most common question asked by pet owners. Here is what you need to know.
Morning
A morning walk can be best because it has numerous benefits. For example, the streets are quiet, and in summers, the temperature is mild which eliminates the risk of sunstroke. This morning walk should be the longest walk of the day. 30 to 60 minutes would be a perfect fit and the dog’s energy also matters here. It won’t only benefit your dog, but also gives you a massive energy burst before moving to work.
Also, remember that when the weather is too cold, a morning walk may not be suitable for older dogs. The cold weather makes your dog feel like not walking as it bothers the joint stiffness and arthritis. In that case, it is good to wait for the sun to warm up before you take your four-legged friend on a walk.
Afternoon
Afternoons might not be the best time to walk. Especially for the people living in cities because crowd and traffic stay at the peak at this time. It can increase your dog’s stress level. But still, taking your dog to walk for at least 15 minutes would be a good fit. A short walk is enough for stretching your dog’s legs and refreshing the mood.
Also, in summers you should not take your dog for a walk when the weather is too hot. Especially, if your doggy is older or belongs from a breed that is prone to heat strokes such as pug, bulldog, and boxer. They can face heatstrokes if walked for a long distance.
On the other hand, if you live in a cold-weather climate, it could be the best time to take your dog for a walk as it is the warmest part of the day.
Evening
If your pup loves being social, the evening can be the best time. Because this the time when most of the people come out with their dogs for walking.
But wait, if you are living near a busy area, it may not be suitable for your fido. The traffic and loud noises can disturb your dog.
Night
Walking your dog at night is one of the best times. Generally, nights are quiet and the perfect dose of relaxation for dogs before going to sleep which helps your dog to sleep better.
If you live in a hot climate and have a dog who is prone to heatstrokes. Then Night walks are perfect for your pup. Because in nights, summer temperature gets slightly cool.
Make sure you don’t forget to set a flashing and reflective collar on your sweet pup so you can easily see him in the dark areas.
How Walking Impact your Dog’s health?
Walking can provide your dog with various health benefits, including:
Helps in maintaining a healthy weight
When a dog daily gets engaged in physical activity, all the extra calories are burnt which helps in maintaining a healthy weight. It also helps in preventing obesity which is great because it is a very big health issue for dogs.
Improves Joint Health
If your dog doesn’t move for a long time, it can stiff them. Yes, just like when we experience stiff legs after sitting for too long. Walking helps your dog’s joints to stay in motion. It helps in keeping them in a good shape and improves the overall function.
Improves Mental Health
Walking not only improves your dog’s physical health but mental health also. It instantly improves mood, reduces the symptoms of depression and anxiety in your dog.
During a walk, the dog experiences the wildlife, interacts with new people and dogs, smells the ground, and explores new paths. All these things immensely contribute to your dog’s mental health.
Helps In Building a Strong Bond Between You And Your Dog
Walking allows you to spend one-on-one time with your four-legged friend. It increases the love, trust and builds an overall strong relationship between you and your doggy.
Improves Digestive And Urinary Health
When puppies are on schedule, their happiness level gets to the next level. Walking your dog can help in preventing digestive issues such as constipation. Also, if the urine stays in the bladder for a long time it can cause a bladder infection. But regular walk can help in reducing the risk of it.
It was also found in a study that a dog can get benefits from walking such as extended life, increased fitness, reduced frustration, anger, and destruction, preventing overweight, and a great opportunity for socializing with other dogs and people.
Now you can easily see that how important and beneficial walking can be for your dog. One more thing, walking not only benefits your dog but also improves your health.
A Few Simple Yet Effective Tips To Remember
- Always keep your eye on your dog when he is around the children.
- Say no to walking when the weather is extremely hot.
- Never forget to take fresh drinking water for your dog and yourself.
- Take a plastic bag with yourself so you can clean your dog’s poop.
- Give your dog control to decide where to go, then he will enjoy the walk more.
- During the walk, keep talking to your dog and give compliments for good behavior.
- When you and your dog are done with walking, reward him with a treat.
Final Words
So, that was all about “how often do you walk your dog?”. Take your dog on walks at least twice a day, and it would be perfect.
Lastly, make sure you are not only walking with your dog but also enjoying every single moment with him. Walking allows you to interact with your dog very well. So, use it to the full and strengthen the relationship between you and your dog.
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