Dog Walking Strategies
for Good Health

Dog walking, and other forms of exercise, are very important for the good health of your dog.

When anyone in my family asks me that really exciting, "Do you want to go for a walk" question, it's like doggie Christmas! I get really excited and I am ready to go!

Ears back, tail up, let's roll!

If you have a large fenced-in area, "running free" exercise is ok, but intentional, dedicated dog walking time is even better.

Make time for your dog. Setting aside time, particularly in the morning, is a good way to give your dog the exercise benefits they need.

This doesn't need to be complicated. You can simply take a walk around the block. Depending upon the activity level of your dog, you can take him for a jog or run.

For general exercise, some dogs like to play fetch, frisbee or even swim. But, exercise should become part of your regular routine and, day in or day out, a good old walk is probably the best way to assure consistent exercise for your guy.

All dogs are different, whether by breed, size or temperament. So, be sure you watch your dog and use your own dog-sense to give them just what they need. Some simply require more exercise than others. Those shorter-legged guys are not going to be able to do as much.

Age is also a consideration. Exercise is still important for older dogs. But, of course, you must take it a bit easier and not overdo it. Your diligence with your older dog's exercise will not only enhance their general health, but may even add years to their lives.

Be consistent. Make it a routine. Have fun with it and enjoy your time together. Establish this "ritual" and you will always have a good walking partner. Take advantage of this for your own health as well as his.

In my family, we have such a good routine that no one really even needs to ask me to go. I can just tell. I see those "walking shoes" go on. Or, since we go at the same time each day, I just know when to start getting excited and am more than happy to remind them!

Other General Dog Walking Points

To get started, set aside twenty to thirty minutes at least once each day. This is the absolute minimum. Doing this twice each day is preferable.

Depending upon the dog, you can work these dog walking sessions up to an hour each, if you can manage it. This is not a leisurely stroll, allowing the dog to stop whenever they want. Make it an active, brisk walk.

You can also consider biking, skating or running (particularly if you have a dog that is very active). Of course you want to be careful and keep your dog, and yourself, safe.

Think of every walk as an opportunity to train your dog. Particularly if you are just getting started. You must teach your dog to walk without pulling you - you are walking him, he is not walking you! You must assure you have control over your dog at all times.

If you are elderly or otherwise unable to give your dog the amount of exercise they need, there are other resources available to you that can really help.

If you find you really enjoy interacting with guys like me and are a real dog-lover, there is even an opportunity to turn dog walking into a lucrative business!

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