Owning a dog comes with responsibility. Dogs require a lot of time, patience, effort, and attention. Since they also love being with you, you should make sure that you’re spending time with your dog often—whether by cuddling or playing with him, feeding him, or just hanging out while you’re watching your favorite television show or curled up with a book. Dogs are not self-sufficient creatures, and they need you to help them lead happy and healthy lives. One big part of caring for a dog is bringing him on regular walks. Dogs are curious creatures with a zest for life, and they love exploring their surroundings. Even if you come home tired from a day at work, walking your dog is an important part of his routine. If you don’t take your dog for a walk regularly, here are some things that can happen.
They Don’t Get Ample Exercise
Walking is a great way for dogs to get their exercise. This is especially important for those who don’t have backyards where dogs can romp around to their hearts’ content. If your dog is lucky enough to have a yard to run around in or if there is a dog park nearby where he can have some fun with his friends, then he may not need to be walked that often. On the other hand, if your dog doesn’t have much chance to get out of your place, you should try walking him at least once a day. Walking helps to keep your dog in shape. You wouldn’t want your dog to become overweight and suffer from a host of health problems, would you? Dogs with hip dysplasia, for instance, need to be kept trim as excess weight can weigh down on their joints.
They Get Bored
A walk is also a great way to keep your dog entertained. An idle dog is a bored dog—and a bored dog won’t just lie around like us! Instead, they may get into destructive behaviors such as excessive chewing, digging, or causing a mess in the house just to entertain themselves. However, what amuses your dog probably will not amuse you! To keep him from displaying such destructive behaviors, you should direct their energy into a productive activity instead. Bringing your dog on a walk is a great way to provide him with the stimulation he needs and keep him content.
Walking is also a mental activity for dogs. Exploring the neighborhood keeps your dog’s mind active—he gets to smell his surroundings and get familiar with them. This sharpens your dog’s mental faculties, which keeps him mentally as well as physically fit! Regular playtime for your dog can also help him keep his body healthy and his mind sharp.
They Lose Out on Socializing
Bringing your dog out for a walk is a great chance for him to meet people and other furry friends! Socializing is an important aspect of a dog’s life. If dogs don’t get the opportunity to make friends, they may have difficulty interacting with other dogs in the future. Walking your dog helps build your dog’s confidence and teaches him to be social.
You Miss Out on Bonding Time
Walking with your dog is a great way to bond. Who doesn’t want to have a great relationship with their pets? Seize the opportunity to enjoy your dog’s company as you take him out for his daily walk. Remember to bring along some pet waste bags and be a considerate pet owner by cleaning up after your pet on your walks!
