Walking your dog is the best thing you can do for your pet's
health - and not just its body. Dogs are smart. Their brains get anxious and
stressed if they're not frequently using their minds. Walking stimulates your
dog's mind by giving them sights, smells, sounds, and more to think about and process.
Walking is also fun for owners. But when you walk your dog
every day for 10+ years, admittedly, things can grow a bit stale, and that isn't
necessary a good thing for either you or your dog. Luckily, it is not too challenging
to find ways to make walking on the leash more fun for the both of you.
How to Make Dog Walking a Bit More Fun
- Mix Up the Walk - It's so easy to get into a bit
of a routine when you walk, walking around the same path and neighborhoods. Try
walking either without a destination, or driving a few minutes away to give
yourself a new walk and new things for you and your dog to see.
- Hike - Hiking is both healthier for you and your
dog and often far more fun for the average person. Dogs make fantastic hiking
companions, and get ready to feel some incredible pride when you watch your dog
navigate tough terrain.
- Bring a Dog Friend - Walking with someone that also
has a dog (or walking two dogs yourself) gives your dog a buddy that adds to
their experience, even when taking the same walk. They get social interaction (which
uses their mind) as well as a new way of exploring, something that can make
your time out more exciting as well.
- Make it a Photo Day - Taking photos of and with
your dog creates memories that add to the experience. Not only do you get some
great shots of your furry friend, but you also have a chance to bond with them
and have an activity to do together (finding places for photos and trying to
get your dog to sit/stay).
- Give Your Dog a Job - Did you know that dogs are
happier when they're put to work? If your dog is big enough and strong enough,
consider giving them a job to do. For example, a stronger dog can carry some
lemonades around that you can hand out to joggers, or you can try to have your
dog carry a stick for you home. Dogs don't have to know that that's not a real
job, as long as they feel like it is one.
Dog Walks When You Need a Break
Still, the truth is that sometimes it can be tiring to walk
your dog every day, especially with how busy life gets. Here at FurBabies Home
Pet Care, our professional pet sitters can provide midday dog walks that are great
for your pet's health and happiness, and also give you a bit of a break from
the daily grind of regular walks. If you'd like to learn more about our dog
walking service in Lake Mary and Sanford, give us a call today or fill out our online
form to get started.
