Spring has officially arrived, and on March 26th, the clocks will go forward, meaning longer days and lighter evenings! As a result, many pet owners are eagerly anticipating more regular walks with their furry companions.
To ensure your pet stays happy and healthy this Spring, Dr Emma Scales-Theobald, PhD, a Dog Behaviourist at Pooch & Mutt, has shared her top tips and advice for your pooch, including:
Dr Emma Scales-Theobald, PhD, Dog Behaviourist at Pooch & Mutt, comments on Springtime walks:
‘Walks are very important for dogs, as they provide physical exercise and mental stimulation. Dogs need physical exercise to stay healthy, maintain their weight, and prevent boredom and taking your dog for a walk is a great way to provide them with the exercise they need. Depending on the breed, age, and health of the dog, the amount of exercise required will vary. However, all dogs need some level of exercise every day.
Walks provide dogs with a variety of sights, sounds, and smells that stimulate their minds. Dogs are naturally curious creatures, and a walk can be a great opportunity for them to explore new environments and engage with their surroundings. A lack of regular walks can lead to a range of issues, such as obesity, boredom, and behavioural problems. Therefore, it’s important for dog owners to make time for regular walks to keep their furry friends happy and healthy.’
Dr Emma’s Springtime walking tips:
The frequency and duration of walks for a dog will depend on several factors, including age, breed, size, health, and individual needs. Generally, dogs should be walked at least once a day for 30 minutes to an hour. However, some dogs may require more exercise, and others may be content with less. In addition to regular walks, dogs also benefit from playtime, interactive games, and other forms of exercise. It’s important to provide them with a variety of physical and mental stimulation to keep them happy and healthy.
It is very common for dogs to “ask” to go for a walk through specific behaviours to indicate that they want to go for a walk, such as bringing their leash to their owner, sitting by the front door, or even whining. These behaviours can be a form of communication between the dog and their owner, indicating that the dog is ready for a walk and wants to spend time outside.
Many dogs will naturally develop a routine where they know when it’s time for their daily walk, and they may become excited and show signs of anticipation when they see their leash or hear certain words associated with going for a walk, such as “walk,” “outside,” or “leash.”
It’s important for dog owners to pay attention to their dog’s signals and respond appropriately. If a dog is showing signs of wanting to go for a walk, it’s usually a good idea to take them out for some exercise and mental stimulation. This can help keep the dog happy, healthy, and well-behaved.
Dogs can develop a sense of routine and may come to expect walks at certain times of the day. Dogs are creatures of habit and often thrive on predictable schedules. It’s important for dog owners to be consistent with their dog’s routines and schedule walks at regular intervals. This can help establish a sense of structure and predictability for the dog, which can reduce stress and anxiety.
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