Walking Your Dog

It is easy for the loving dog owner to forget that dogs were once wild animals. Although they have been domesticated, dogs still need to release much of the energy that comes from having to hunt and roam in the wild. If your dog doesn’t have an opportunity to release this energy, it may release itself in your home, by chewing on the carpet, ripping up slippers, and other bad behaviors.

The best way to release this energy is by walking your dog – letting your dog roam the backyard is not enough. By taking your dog on daily walks, you give your dog a chance to explore its surroundings as well as tire itself, so that when you bring it back home it has less energy to devote to destroying your furniture.

Leashes

You should always walk your dog on a leash. Although your dog may struggle at first, and may even be reluctant to allow the leash to prevent it from roaming at its own leisure, the leash is for its own safety as well as yours. An off-leash dog can find itself in the street or chasing after a small animal – both of which could lead to you never seeing your dog again.

However, if you notice your dog is struggling on its leash, there are two ways to help it get used to being lead. The first option is to purchase a harness, rather than a collar – a collar can choke the dog when it wanders too far away, which can lead to unnecessary stress on the dog and a greater reluctance to be walked on leash.

Another option is to gently tug on the leash whenever your dog extends the leash too far. While it may seem cruel at first, your dog will quickly learn that wandering too far away will lead to the inconvenient tug, and eventually the dog will learn to check your feet so that it can ensure it is walking close enough to you.

Distance

The amount of time you need to walk your dog depends on the type of breed (herding, sporting, non-sporting, etc.) and age of the dog. Younger dogs, especially of active breeds like collies and shelties, require at least an hour and a half or more of walking per day in order to tire out their restless bodies. Older dogs and dogs from less active breeds, like non-sporting dogs and several toy breeds, need less walking, so a half hour every day should be fine.

Your dog will let you know if you are walking it enough by the time it spends resting and strolling listlessly around the house. But don’t be worried if your dog appears very energetic upon returning to your home. Many dogs get temporarily excited before the tiredness kicks in and they either sleep or rest near your legs.

Health benefits and Conclusion

Walking your dog is a good way to avoid bad behaviors, keep your dog healthy, and keep yourself healthy as well. While it may take a little while out of your day, the long term benefits of walking your dog far outweigh the time it takes to do so. Your companion will live longer, and will be happier with you with each passing day.

Give your Dog the Healthy Dog Treats such as Bully Sticks !