A dog walk is so much more than simply getting from point A to point B. It is a time where we can strengthen the bond with our dog, explore the great outdoors and get some fresh air and sunshine.
Did you know, walking with your pet rather than by yourself has been scientifically proven to lower your stress levels? So, it won’t just be your dog benefitting from the interaction.
Avoiding Repetition
If you walk the same route day in and day out, both you and your dog are sure to get bored quickly. Variety is the spice of life when it comes to dog walks and you should be using them as an opportunity to explore your local area.
Local greens, parks, beaches and hike routes are all there for you and your dog to enjoy together. If unsure where to start, most Local Facebook Groups will have suggestions, or you can ask the dog walkers you meet.
A Training Opportunity
We can use walks as an opportunity to get in some training sessions. It can be harder for your dog to focus and pay attention to you when surrounded by outdoor distractions. You may find you need some high value treats, such as Pooch & Mutt’s Meaty Treats, to keep your dog focused.
Depending on your aims, you may wish to work on recall, or perhaps some command training. Remember that learning new things outside will usually take longer, especially for distractable breeds like Spaniels and Sighthounds.