Dogs are our family members. But they’re also animals, and animals have instincts that are not always compatible with your home. Even the “Best Behaved” dog can still behave in a way that is not ideal for your household, such as aggression, chewing behavior, urination, barking, and more.
We love all dog behaviors, and chances are you do too. But there are situations when those behaviors are a little too strong – where your dog is showing an increase in some of the less desirable behavior, and your training is not helping it break out of those habits.
Your Dog May Need Stimulation
There are many potential reasons that dogs may show a change in their behavior, but one of the most common is simply a lack of stimulation. Dogs need to use their mind and body, and when they are neither physically nor mentally stimulated, their boredom and anxiety ends up turning into some of the more common “animal” behaviors.
You can stimulate your pet with dog toys, training, and other activities, but what your dog may need more than anything else is simply a walk. Dog walking is easily one of the best ways to stimulate your dog, because it offers:
Physical Stimulation – Dog walking uses all of your pet’s muscles and decreases excess energy, so that your dog does not experience stress or anxiety from tense, unused muscles and tissues.
Mental Stimulation – With so many sights, smells, and sounds, walking outdoors provides considerable mental stimulation as well, which reduces boredom behaviors and improves mental sharpness. This is why dogs that exercise indoors often show more anxious behaviors than dogs that exercise outdoors – because outside there is far more stimulation.
Dog walking also has many other benefits, such as making it easier for your pet to sleep (which reduces stress) and improves their health and weight as well. But that stimulation is also invaluable, especially if it comes in the middle of the day when your pet may feel lonely and crave attention.
Dog Walking in Lake Mary, Healthrow, Sanford, Longwood, and More
We know that it can be hard for you to find time in the day to walk your dog. But we also know how valuable dog walking can be. With affordable rates and considerable experience, our dog walkers at FurBabies are a great choice for those that want to stimulate their dog and reduce unwanted behaviors. Give us a call today to learn more.
