Walking improves your health and it’s important for your dog too! Consistent dog-walking can help you, your family, and your dog all live a healthier lifestyle. Here’s how:
Walking Is Good for Your Health
Routine walking will significantly reduce your risk of developing cardiovascular disease and related health issues. It reduces your blood pressure and cholesterol levels as well as lowering your BMI. Heart disease is the leading cause of death for women in the United States, and daily walking can help prevent that!
Regular walking won’t leave you feeling sore the next day because it’s lower impact than activities like running.
Walking is also for your mental health. It provides a break in your daily tasks to decompress, breathe, and reduce your stress levels. Movement elevates your endorphin levels while enhancing the opportunity to bond with your dog.
Dogs Need To Walk
Walking is a necessity for dogs to live long, healthy lives. The happiest dogs are the ones that receive quality attention and good exercise. Routine physical activity helps prevent some of the most common health conditions in dogs like obesity and arthritis. It will also regulate your dog’s digestive and urinary tracts. By relieving excess energy with daily exercise, your dog will sleep better at night.
Daily walks will give your dog the chance to check out different sights and smells, providing them with the mental stimulation they need. Dogs who don’t get enough stimulation may develop destructive habits such as getting into the trash or chewing up furniture. Tiring your dog out is one of the most effective ways to prevent problem behaviors.
How Often Should You Walk Your Dog?
How often you walk your dog depends upon the dog’s unique needs, such as their breed and age. For example, dogs who are high-energy, like a border collie, require more walking than others. A Maltese, on the other hand, does not need as much exercise.
If your dog is elderly or suffers from joint pain, you’ll want to keep your walks on the shorter end, so as not to overwork their muscles. Be sure to look out for any indicators that your dog is suffering from pain such as limping or lagging behind on walks.
A routine walking schedule will help both you and your dog maintain physical and mental health. It will also bring you closer together and help you bond with your furry friend.
Emily Bergquist is a writer and marketing strategist at Barkly Pets, a digital marketplace specially designed for professional dog walkers to manage and grow their own businesses. She focuses on pet friendly blog content, helpful resources for dog walkers, and is passionate about all things pet care.
