National Dog Walking Week is a time to remember the benefits of walking your dog. It is not only your dog that profits, but you get some advantages out of it, too. If you are tired of the same old routine, change it up with a new route for some adventure. Your dog will appreciate it, as well.
 

What Does Your Dog Get out of Walking?

Dogs are pack animals. They love to experience new people and smells. A walk is stimulating to your dog, giving it the opportunity to explore their surroundings. It makes your dog happy to take a walk. It loves to spend time with you. It also gives your dog exercise. Just like humans, a dog’s cardiovascular system needs to be active for it to be healthy. It keeps your dog’s weight in line, which reduces the risk of obesity. A dog walk is good for socialization and for training. Walks also tire your dog. If you have a dog that is getting into trouble out of boredom, regular walks can help your dog be less destructive.
 

What Do Humans Get out of Dog Walking?

As a pet owner, you deserve something out of your dog walks. Owning a pet in itself is very healthy. People who own pets are seen as friendly and approachable. Your dog boosts your mental and emotional health through his companionship. When you pet your dog, it reduces stress and lowers your blood pressure. Dog walking also adds additional benefits to pet ownership:
•       Dog walks give you exercise. You get the same cardiovascular health benefits that your dog gets. Walking helps lower your blood pressure, reduces your risk of stress, and keeps you healthier.
•       Walking your dog improves your joint health and flexibility. It also improves your balance, which declines as you age.
•       Regular walking reduces your risk of Type 2 diabetes by helping you control your blood sugar levels. Humans need at least 150 minutes of exercise each week, according to the American Heart Association. Two 30-minute walks every day pushes you over that threshold while spending time with your best friend.
•       Walking increases your happiness. Exercise boosts serotonin levels, which is one of the hormones responsible for mood regulation.
•       Walking helps you mentally renew. If you walk your dog and focus on the walk, you will not be on your phone or dealing with work. It is a chance to rejuvenate your mind. Being in nature is another emotional boost that helps reduce depression and stress.
 

How Much Should You Walk Your Dog?  

Some experts recommend walking your dog for as long as it wants, but you may not be able to keep up with your dog. Most dogs need a couple of walks each day, from 30 minutes to an hour each time. There are a lot of variables that determine how much exercise your dog needs. You should consider your dog’s age, breed, activity level and health. Smaller breeds usually need less exercise than larger breeds, but there are some very active breeds that benefit from high-intensity exercise or longer walks. Short-nosed breeds often have breathing difficulties. Briefer walks, 20 to 30 minutes long, are easier on their system. Collies, Labradors, and retrievers may need longer one-hour power walks twice a day to burn their energy.
Dogs need regular healthcare from an experienced veterinarian to stay healthy. Make an appointment today with Pet Hospitals of Hawaii.