Did you know? Walking your dog is good for both you and your pet. In fact, bored pups might become destructive, but going for walks keeps them happy and healthy.
Taking your dog for a walk has numerous social and physical health benefits. For example, regular exercise reduces the risk of chronic illness in animals. In addition to staying physically fit, walking can improve mood and mental health.
Health Benefits of Walking Your Dog
Walking has several physical benefits for owners and their pets. For example, a study published in the Journal of Physical Activity and Health found that dog walking reported more physical activity and lower body mass index compared to those who did not walk dogs. Likewise, they had lower risks of diabetes, hypertension, and high cholesterol.
- General Fitness — Obesity can be a problem in sedentary pets. Walking is a great way to burn extra calories and keep fit.
- Heart Health — Regular exercise promotes cardiovascular fitness in dogs and humans.
- Joints and Mobility — Older animals (and people) can suffer from stiff joints if they sit still for too long. Regular exercise keeps joints mobile and flexible.
- Digestive Health — “Holding it” for too long can lead to constipation and urinary tract infections. Frequent jaunts around the block give dogs a chance to relieve themselves on a regular basis.
Social Benefits of Dog Walking
Taking your fur baby for a walk is a great way to meet the neighbors. For example, people on the street are more likely to greet people with dogs than those without. Research from the British Journal of Psychology found that having a dog with you increases the frequency of social interactions, which can lead to lasting friendships.
Going for a walk is mutually beneficial for you and your pup. Doing activities together increases the bond between owner and pet. Shared love and affection can help fulfill the social needs of you and your pet. Think about it: when our pets are happy, we are happy, too.
Mental and Emotional Health
Going for walks can increase happiness for you and your pooch. For example, social interactions associated with dog walking can decrease feelings of loneliness and isolation. Similarly, physical activity releases endorphins and serotonin, reducing anxiety and boosting happiness. In addition, walking in different areas keeps things exciting and provides mental stimulation, reducing your pup’s boredom. So, consider exploring new hiking trails or taking a different route around the neighborhood.
Walking vs. Playing in the Yard
You might be wondering, couldn’t my dog play in the yard instead of going for a walk? Running outside is an excellent way for pets to exercise, especially if you go out and toss a ball. However, this doesn’t boast all the same benefits as walking your dog. For example, it provides less physical activity for the owner. Likewise, there is no change of scenery, resulting in less mental stimulation than going on a walk. So, it’s a good idea to create a balance between yard time and walking because both have different benefits for your pup.
How much should I walk my dog?
The length and frequency of walks depend on your pet’s size, age, and breed. For example, an active puppy might need a short walk three or four times daily. On the other hand, most adult dogs enjoy walking once or twice a day. In general, shoot for a total of 30 minutes of physical activity each day.
Dog Walking Services
Is your pooch getting enough physical activity each day? If you are away from your dog for long periods, Tarheel Total Pet Care can take care of walking your dog for you. Give us a call at 908-234-0644.
