With several canines and their owners all over the Lakes Region, Homeward Bound would like to help spread the word on why daily walks for your dog are so important. Walks benefit your pup greatly and, in turn, they benefit you as well! Without further ado, here is why walks are integral to having a happy and healthy dog.
The Benefits of Daily Dog Walks For Your Dog
Daily Dog Walks Help Stave Off Boredom
When you furry friend goes out for a walk, they are receiving all kinds of sensory information. Each of their senses is being put to work when they are exploring a new environment such as the outdoors. This is especially true in the diverse nature scenes that New Hampshire has to offer. Walks are great mental stimulation and physical stimulation which help keep your pup cool, calm, and collected!
Daily Dog Walks Provide Exercise for Your Dog
This is the physical stimulation piece. Regardless of your dog’s breed or age, our canine friends generally require at least a little bit of exercise daily for their physical and mental health. Exercise in any form is helpful and hiring a professional to walk your dog guarantees that each outdoor exploration will be tailored to meet the needs of your dog whether they need something more fast-paced or more of a gentle stroll.
Daily Dog Walks Encourage Less Destructive Traits From Your Dog
The combination of physical and mental stimulation that walks provide is the key to less destructive behaviors. When destructive behaviors are exhibited by dogs it is usually due to boredom and a lack of activity. Dogs who do not have enough stimulation overall can fall victim to stress as well, which makes for an unhappy pup usually followed by an unhappy human.
Daily Dog Walks Provide Socialization For Your Dog
One very important part of a dog’s life is proper socialization. This is generally helpful to catch at a young age as the critical socialization period for our furry friends is 8 to 16 weeks. However, progress with socialization can still be made with dogs later on in life. Daily walks provide your dog with the opportunity to observe and have appropriate reactions towards new people, other dogs, other animals, and new places. If you want your dog to be able to go anywhere, walks are a first step in getting them comfortable and happy in new environments!
Daily Dog Walks Provide Peace of Mind For You!
Last, but certainly not least, hiring a dog walker can provide you with peace of mind. Many dog owners have work schedules that keep them away from home during daylight hours which is the prime time for your dog to get out and explore. Having a professional walk your dog when you cannot provides you with the knowledge that your four-legged family member is okay while you are away. Homeward Bound also provides journals and picture updates so that you know that your dog is happy and healthy while you are otherwise occupied. There is nothing like receiving a picture of your smiling dog during the work day to cheer you up as you have the guarantee that your dog is happy and well cared for!
If you have any questions or comments, please let us know down below! What is your reason for hiring a dog walker? Feel free to share!