Walk Your Dog

According to multiple studies, walking your dog has many health benefits. Anywhere from 30% to 70% of dog walkers walk their dogs regularly, depending on which study you look at and what factors you monitor. Some say that dog owners can be up to 34% more likely to get the exercise they need. No matter the statistics, there are plenty of dogs (and people) who aren’t getting regular walks in.

1. Bonding with your dog – walking together creates a bond. She’s relying on me to get her back home safely and I’m relying on her to keep me safe on the walk. The bond helps build her trust in me, and that in turn helps her mental state to be a calmer dog.
2. Walk with a purpose – she likes exploring new places (new smells! New things to look at! New people to meet!) and so it gives me a reason to walk; we go on specific hikes or have a destination in mind each time we walk.
3. Daily exercise – walking is good for you, and it is good for your dog. Maintaining a healthy weight is important for both me AND Magic, so when we set out on walks, we’re getting our daily exercise in.
4. Socialize – I’ve met so many more people since I’ve gotten a dog. Other dog walkers, other people, neighbors, etc. Magic likes meeting most dogs, and since she can’t talk, it is up to me to talk to other owners and see if we can meet. Not everyone is responsive, and not all dogs have been friendly to her, but this just helps her learn how to interact and get through situations calmly without incident.