Walks are an important part of your dog’s daily routine. It’s so much more than just an opportunity for a washroom break. Dogs are naturally curious animals and love to explore. Walks give dogs the chance to stretch their legs and explore the world around them.

Checking up on their social feeds

When I first got my dog, Louie, I did not really understand why he would go up to poles, trees, and fire hydrants to sniff and then pee on them. Turns out, urinating on these things is a way for dogs to let other dogs know that they have been there. It’s kind of their way of checking up on their friends in the neighbourhood and seeing if there are any new visitors in the hood.

Mental Stimulation

Dogs are instinctively curious creatures and they love to explore. Dogs do most of their exploring with their noses. They use their extremely keen sense of smell to investigate their surroundings. It is a great form of mental stimulation for your dog. It’s something they genuinely enjoy. The next time you are out with your dog, don’t rush them. Let them enjoy and savour all the smells around them. Like people, dogs can get bored of doing the same route over and over again. Try switching it up from time to time. Visit a new park, hit up a hiking trail, or venture to a different part of your neighbourhood. Different places have different scents for your dog to smell.

Physical Exercise

We all feel better after some physical activity. The same goes for our dogs. Walks are a low impact form of physical activity that will give your dog an opportunity to work off some excess energy. There is a saying that a tired dog is a happy dog. The amount of physical activity your dog needs on a daily basis will depend on its size and breed.

Bonding with their humans

Taking your dog for nice long walks gives you two the opportunity to bond. Spending more time together will strengthen your relationship and can help your dog behave better.

Meeting other dogs and people

Daily walks give your dog the opportunity to meet people and other dogs. Socialization is very important for dogs. It helps them be comfortable around people and other canines and understand how they should behave. Regular interactions with familiar and new people and dogs will help your pup become increasingly comfortable interacting with others.