Written by: Bren Parker
There’s something calming and joyful about walking with your dog. Or there should be. But often times we let what can be a pleasant bonding time with our dog turn into just another daily chore to be done with. Whether it’s a leisurely stroll around the block or a trip to the park, taking time to truly enjoy these walks can enhance your relationship with your dog. Here’s how you can make the most of your time together and turn every walk into a rewarding experience for both of you.
Slow Down and Be Present
In today’s busy world, it’s easy to rush through tasks, including your dog’s daily walk. But walking with your dog offers a unique chance to slow down and savor the moment, escape the worries of the day for a few minutes and just decompress. Instead of going through your to-do list in your head, focus on the walk. After all, it’s really just a few minutes out of your day.
Take In the Outdoors Yourself
This daily walk isn’t just good for your dog; it’s a good chance for you to get out and enjoy nature. Take a deep breath and observe your surroundings. Notice the changing colors of the trees, the blooming of the flowers. Your dog, with its heightened senses, is soaking in the environment, and you can do the same. By slowing your pace, you open yourself to the beauty of nature, making the walk more enjoyable for both of you.
Engage With Your Dog
While walking, engage with your dog beyond just holding the leash. You can interact with your dog in meaningful ways—talking to them, praising them, or even practicing training. Use the time to reinforce positive behaviors with commands like “sit” or “heel” or allow your dog to explore new areas while keeping them safe on the leash. The connection you build through these interactions strengthens your relationship, and both of you will look forward to your next adventure together.
Vary the Routine
Dogs may thrive on routine, but that doesn’t mean your walks have to become monotonous. Change up the route to keep things interesting. Explore new parks, trails, or neighborhoods, and allow your dog to discover new scents and sights. Varying your walk routes also prevents your dog from becoming bored, keeping their mental stimulation high and their excitement for walks up.
Taking different paths can also expose you to different environments, giving both you and your dog a chance to experience the outdoors in new ways. Whether it’s a hiking trail, forest, or city street, each setting brings its own special atmosphere and rewards. A little variety goes a long way in fighting off boredom for both people and pets.
Focus On Their Needs
When walking with your dog, it’s essential to pay attention to their needs. Make sure they’re comfortable by choosing the right collar or harness, and be mindful of the weather. During hot summer days, avoid walking during peak heat and bring water for both you and your dog to stay hydrated. On cold winter days, consider booties to protect their paws from ice or salt.
Take in consideration your dog’s overall health. Elderly dogs, arthritic dogs, and bracycephalic dogs are more susceptible to problems in extreme temperatures.
Also, give your dog plenty of opportunities to sniff and explore, as this is a natural behavior that provides them with mental stimulation. If your dog wants to pause and take in a particular scent, let them. This is their version of enjoying the walk, though do keep an eye on what they get into.
Leave Technology Behind
One of the best ways to connect with your dog and fully enjoy the walk is to leave distractions behind. Set your phone to silent and put it in your pocket. Save the checking of social media or texting till you get home. Besides, you need to be aware of your surroundings when on a walk. Loose dogs, broken glass on the sidewalk, or reckless drivers all pose a threat to you and your dog if you are not paying attention.
Appreciate the Health Benefits
Regular walks not only benefit your dog but also improve your own health. Walking is a great way to get exercise, reduce stress, and clear your mind all at the same time. By taking the time to enjoy your dog’s company on a walk, you’re also improving your physical and mental well-being.
Additionally, the presence of a dog has been shown to reduce anxiety and increase happiness, so spending time walking with your dog may have benefits far beyond just fitness.
Consider Training
Many dog owners don’t enjoy walking their dog because their dog doesn’t walk well on a leash. They are hyper, pull on the leash, or lunge or bark at anything that moves. Often owners give up on walking such a dog and the pent up energy from a lack of proper exercise increases the likelihood of behavior problems at home.
In this case, you should seriously consider investing in a good dog trainer. A few sessions with a qualified trainer and you should see improvement in the way your dog behaves on a leash. This small change opens up the opportunity for you to make walking your dog a pleasure and something that will produce benefits for the rest of their life.
Walking with your dog should be an enriching experience that offers countless opportunities to bond, explore, and enjoy the outdoors. See it from their perceptive: it’s time they get to spend with the person they love the most. Give them the attention they want by slowing down, engaging with your dog, and being mindful of their needs. You’ll see each walk turn into a meaningful experience. After all, walking with your dog isn’t just a chore- it’s about making memories, exploring new places, and appreciating time spent together.
