Dogs thrive on routine, and they learn best with repetition. While scheduling a walk every day is good for your dog’s physical and mental well-being, it doesn’t mean that you have to be routine in where and how you walk each day. These tips will help you spice up your dog’s daily walks so you and your pup continue to enjoy them.
Tempo: Speed It Up Then Back Down
Most of us tend to stick to the same pace when we go for walks, and it’s no different when walking with our pups. An easy way to add some variety to your daily walks with your dog is to periodically change your pacing. Set a timer on your phone or smartwatch for about three minutes, and when it goes off, walk a little faster. After another three minutes, walk slower again. Mix up the pacing so it’s not following a particular routine. This will keep things exciting for you and your dog.
Change Up Your Location
It’s easy to strap on your dog’s leash and venture out for a walk around your neighborhood. Always walking the same route can get a little mundane after a while. You feel like you’re on autopilot. Try to explore new neighborhoods (or other parts of your own neighborhood) on a couple of your daily walks during the week. Not only do new areas provide new sights, sounds, and smells, but they often also have different terrains. What better way to spice up a daily walk than with a completely new feeling under your feet? Occasionally checking out a dog park can also give you something new for your daily walks. Just be sure your pup’s vaccines are up to date.
Teach Some New Tricks
While you probably do most of your training work inside your home, it can benefit both you and your dog to practice some new tricks while on a walk. Changing up the scenery and adding new distractions helps your dog practice focusing on a task. Training efforts that you can successfully manage on a walk include:
- Basic commands like “sit,” “stay,” or “leave it”
- Walking on a leash
- New tricks like fetch
Make It a Social Affair
If you have a friend who has a dog, consider inviting them to come on your next walk with your dog. As long as the pups get along, walking together can provide meaningful social interaction for the dogs. It also gives you and your friend a chance to catch up. The presence of another dog and his or her human can add a lot of pizzazz to your daily walk. Make it a regular occurrence if it goes well after your first joint walk. Socialization is essential for dogs, and it helps them become more well-rounded members of society. Walking with friends is a great way to spice up your dog’s daily walks.
At Westarbor Animal Hospital, we love being here for you, from significant pet milestones to your pet’s daily routines. From wellness visits to surgery, we offer veterinary services to meet your every need. Call (734) 769-5391 to learn more about joining the Westarbor family.
