Walking the dog is a core part of many families’ routines, and pets of all ages will rush to the door with a wagging tail the moment the leash comes out. There is a good reason for that response! Daily dog walking provides your pet with numerous benefits, and owners who maintain that schedule can see the physical, mental, and behavioral benefits of getting their furry friend out of the house for a bit.
The good news is that if you find yourself short on time, a walk provided by a professional dog walker is just as effective (or possibly even more so) than a trip on your own. Dog walkers always have the time, so you can rest assured your pet is getting the exercise they need, even if your schedule is tight.
Here are some reasons daily walks are a foundational part of responsible pet care and contribute to a longer, healthier life.
| Covered in This Blog: This article explains how daily dog walking is a great choice for pets of all ages because these consistent outings provide a range of physical and mental benefits that often lead to improved mood and behavior. |
The Many Benefits of Daily Dog Walks
Most dogs love walks, so it is not usually difficult to get them excited for this healthy activity. Some of the great things you can expect for your pet include the following:
Weight management
As with humans, regular activity can burn calories. At a basic level, dogs will burn through their fat stores to generate the energy necessary to support their activity during a walk. As a result, regular walks help keep your pet lean and healthy; otherwise, excess fat can accumulate around their organs, leading to complications and potentially even a shortened lifespan.
Joint mobility
The phrase “use it or lose it” is commonly used when talking about muscles, but it also applies to joints. If your pet does not regularly engage their full range of motion, they can gradually lose the ability to move with ease and comfort.
By taking a daily walk, your dog continues to keep their joints flexible maintains their natural range of motion. This can help reduce the risk of arthritis in later years, making their life more comfortable and accessible.
Heart health
Daily walks are good for the heart for many reasons. The aforementioned fat loss is one; the heart does not have to struggle while at rest to supply blood to all the extra fatty tissue. In addition, the heart is a muscle, and regular exercise strengthens it, providing plenty of consistent blood flow to every area of the body (including the heart itself) with the oxygen and energy it needs.
Digestion
The digestive system functions through a process called peristalsis, which is a rhythmic wave of muscle contractions that helps food pass through. However, adding external movement, such as during a walk, supports that process and keeps things moving so your pet is less likely to become constipated or have tummy troubles. The increased blood flow during the walk also helps support the many feet of intestinal length doing the work.
Mental stimulation and socialization
Your dog’s body reaps many benefits from walking, but their mind is just as important. Going outside every day exposes your pet to new and exciting smells, enriching their brain and keeping them alert and entertained. They may also get to spend time with other dogs during these walks (according to the instructions you provide your walker), and socialization is a foundational principle for a happy, healthy dog.
Minimizing Behavior Challenges with Dog Walks
Many people are excited about the positive physical changes their dog will experience after committing to regular walking, but they may also be pleasantly surprised at shifts in problematic behavior. Owners frequently report a decrease in anxiety and destructive behavior once dogs begin walking on a schedule. There are many reasons for this, but chief among them is that your dog’s brain is engaged. Destructive activities, such as chewing, often stem from boredom, and walks offer enrichment.
Schedule Daily Dog Walking with a Team You Trust
As you can see, dog walking is an invaluable part of your pet’s lifestyle. It supports both physical and mental health and can make your pet (and you) happier. However, we understand that not everyone has the time every day to commit to a walk.
That is why Paw Pals maintains a trustworthy roster of dog walkers to help! Contact Paw Pals to schedule a meet-and-greet with a dog-walking professional who can come to your house on your schedule to get your dog the movement they need to stay healthy.
