How Often Do You Walk Your Dog?

Depending on your dog’s health and age, a dog will need different levels of activity. Older dogs may need fewer walks while younger dogs need more. In addition, a sick or injured dog may be limited in their ability to exercise. A vet can help you develop a feasible exercise plan for your dog.

Moderation

One way to improve your dog’s exercise regime is to walk him in moderate amounts. Dog owners who walk their dogs at least twice a week have higher levels of physical activity than owners of dogs who do not walk them. Walking your dog can increase your dog’s exercise routine by 20 percent. However, regular dog walkers also spend about 30 minutes less sedentary than their non-dog walking counterparts.

Depending on your dog’s physical condition, the time of day and type of activity you choose should be considered. For example, if your dog is prone to a prey drive or does not have a good recall, it is best not to walk him too much in one session. Moreover, you should try to walk him during the day, preferably during a quiet period, so that your dog will not be overstimulated.

Monitoring your dog’s health

Wearable health trackers can be great tools for monitoring your dog’s health when walking. Some of these devices are connected to your smartphone, which can send data back to you on a regular basis. They also let you compare your pet’s activity levels to similar breeds. Besides providing information about your dog’s activity levels, these health trackers also help you determine if your dog is in need of medical attention.

If you notice that your dog is in pain while walking, it may be an indication of a more serious medical issue. One of the most common causes of pain in dogs is arthritis, which affects about one in five animals. Arthritis is a degenerative disease caused by normal wear and tear on joints. Symptomatic dogs should be treated as soon as possible by their veterinarian.

You should take your dog for a daily walk to maintain his or her good health. Most breeds require at least 15 minutes of physical activity each day, but some breeds require longer walks. Younger dogs usually need more frequent walks, while older dogs often need less. Whether your dog needs daily exercise or just occasional walks, your veterinarian can help you develop a realistic exercise plan.

A pet health tracker can also give you an idea of how active your dog is, and send notifications to your phone if a slight change is detected. This helps you be more alert and give your dog the best care possible. By collecting information about your pet’s daily activities, you can even take a monthly report to your veterinarian.

Adapting the walk to your dog’s comfort level

If your dog seems uncomfortable or has anxiety, try to adapt the walk to its comfort level. This will reduce your dog’s anxiety levels and help it adjust to a new routine. You can even try to walk in different parts of the city or neighborhood to give your dog new experiences.