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Tips for Taking Your Dogs on the Best Walks Ever

Walking your dog is an essential part of the experience of dog ownership. Not only do walks let your dog (and you!) exercise, they also present an excellent opportunity for you and your pet to bond. If you want to ensure that the walks you take your dog on are enjoyable and beneficial for you and your dog, read the tips below. These hints can ensure that your dog’s walks are as healthy, fun and fulfilling as possible.

Let Your Dog Sniff

Sniffing might seem like it slows your walk down, but if you want your dog to get the most out of his walk, let him sniff as he goes. Sniffing is like mental stimulation for a dog because he can take in the scents of everything that’s been there before, so it’s a great way for him to take interest in the world and feel like his mind is at work.

Bring Water

Get a collapsible dog bowl that is easy to carry with you and then make sure you bring it with you when you go on your walks. Walking, especially when it’s hot, can be tiring, and you and your dog both might need to rehydrate when you’re on the go. Look for a water fountain when you’re walking, or bring a bottle of water to fill up the bowl if you know you’re going to be going to a place that doesn’t have fresh running water.

Tote Treats

Treats are a good way to reward your dog for good behavior. So, if he fetches, walks well beside you or completes a trick, reward your dog with a treat on your walk. Another good reason to bring treats with you when you go walking is that treats can help distract or recall your dog if he keeps into something he shouldn't be involved in, or if he runs off and needs to be called back. Consider bringing “high value” treats that your dog will really want to encourage his return and good behavior.

Go Somewhere New

Don’t always take a walk along the same route in your neighborhood. Your dog will still enjoy it, but he will get bored — like you do — after a while. Look up new routes all the time where you and your dog can go wander. New sights and smells will keep him excited about life and give him just the mental stimulation he needs to feel engaged.

Take Rests

There’s no shame in taking a rest during a dog walk. Find a nice spot to lay down in the park, or sit on a bench to rest your legs. If your dog seems extra tired during a walk, it may be a sign of a health problem. Check with your vet to make sure he’s not in pain from a condition like arthritis, or uncomfortable from a disease like Cushings. If your vet diagnoses your dog with a health condition, there are plenty of treatments so you can continue your walks, like Vetoryl (trilostane). Trilostane costs a bit, as do other pet medications for issues like arthritis, Cushings, or CHF, so make sure to shop around the internet rather than just accepting the price the vets quote you, if you do end up having to get something to help your animal stay as active for as long as he possibly can.

Dogs love going on walks, and you can make walks as fun and healthy as possible by taking a few extra steps. By doing a little to prepare before the walk and paying attention while you’re on the walk, you can create a regular unforgettable experience for both you and your lovable furry friend.

Emily

Hi there! I am Emily Evert, the owner of Emily Reviews. I am 28 and live in a small town in Michigan with my boyfriend Ryan and our two pugs. I have a large family and I adore my nieces and nephews. I love reading memoirs, and learning about child development and psychology. I love watching The Game of Thrones, Teen Mom, Sister Wives and Veep. I like listening to Jason Isbell, John Prine, and other alt-country or Americana music. I created Emily Reviews as a creative outlet to share my life and the products that I love with others.

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