Dog Walking: What Are the Benefits of Walking Your Dog?

Anyone who owns a dog knows how much they love walks. But what they may not know is how great physical activity actually is for them. Plus, as a dog owner, don’t underestimate the healthy benefits you’ll receive when walking your canine companion.

The opportunity to see wildlife and other owners with their pets offers great mental stimulation for your furry friend. Plus, the daily exercise that comes from dog walking is a great way for your dog to release excess energy and help them sleep better at night. 

Read on to learn more about the biggest benefits of walking your dog.

How Often Should You Walk Your Dog?

On average, dogs need between 30 minutes and 2 hours of physical activity each day. However, the exact time needed for dog walking depends on the breed and age of your dog. 

For sporting or working dog breeds such as labrador retrievers and cocker spaniels, longer or smaller, more frequent walks are needed since they have much higher activity level requirements. While on the other hand, dogs bred to be lap dogs such as shih tzus and pomeranians, need less time walking since their exercise requirements are much lower. 

Additionally, the age of a dog affects the length of walk they can handle, with the older dogs requiring shorter, but regular walks, and the younger dogs needing longer ones. 

Why Do Dogs Like Outdoor Activities

The tail flap, butt wiggle, and heightened eye contact as they start running between you and the door in their famous little dance. It’s a familiar reaction that all dog owners have witnessed from their fur babies any time they mention the word, “walk” around them. 

But what is it about dog walking that dogs love so much? 

They get to sniff everything

Yes, EVERYTHING. A dog’s nose and the scents they pick up with it is how they explore the world around them and learn new things. And since dogs love being in the know, it’s only natural that they want to go for daily walks and use that all ye faithful nose of theirs to explore. 

It allows them to unwind

All that pent-up energy that comes with being a dog and from living inside needs to be released in some way or another. For many dogs, a walk is a way to do it. The fresh air, great company, and amazing exercise offers a great atmosphere for any dog needing to release some excess energy. 

The longer the walk, the more dogs/people they get to meet

It’s like the meet and greets that keep ongoing. With every walk, there’s a new opportunity for your dog to meet new friends and socialize with them. What's not to like?

They get to spend quality time with you 

Cheesy or not, it’s true. Your dog loves you. They want to spend as much bonding time with you, and there’s no better way to build that bond than through a long walk.

Looking for the Best Dog Walking Service Near You or Dog Walking Advice?

Give your dog what they want most: long walks and beautiful weather. 

At Barking Good, we give all our dogs the love and care they need to enjoy their time waiting for your return. With our dog boarding, grooming, and dog walking services, your dog will be a happy boy/girl on its way back to you. 

Learn more about our dog walking services on our home page to get started.