3 Tips for Giving Your Dog a Better Walk

For most dogs, walks are the highlight of the day. They get to explore the outside world, burn off energy, and spend quality time with their favorite human.

If you want to make your dog’s walks even more enjoyable for them, here are three easy tips to keep in mind.

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Dog on walk – image via Canva

1. Let Your Dog Stop and Sniff

It can be tempting to keep a steady pace during walks, especially if you’re trying to fit exercise into a busy schedule. However, allowing your dog to stop and sniff is one of the best things you can do for their mental well being.

Dogs experience the world through their noses. Every scent they encounter provides information about other animals, people, and their surroundings.

When you give your dog time to sniff, you’re allowing them to engage their brain and satisfy their natural instincts. This mental stimulation can help reduce boredom and lower stress levels.

A dog that has time to investigate smells often feels more fulfilled and relaxed after the walk.

Dog sniffing sidewalk – image via Canva

2. Practice Training During the Walk

Walks can be the perfect opportunity to reinforce training and strengthen your bond with your dog. Practicing simple commands such as sit, stay, or come can help improve your dog’s focus and manners in distracting environments.

You can start by asking your dog to sit before crossing the street or waiting at corners. Reward them with praise, treats, or affection when they respond correctly.

This helps your dog learn patience and builds positive associations with listening to you outside the home.

Giving dog a treat – image via Canva

3. Change Up Your Routine

Walking the same route every day can become predictable and less stimulating for your dog. Exploring new paths, parks, or neighborhoods introduces fresh sights, sounds, and smells that can spark your dog’s curiosity.

New environments can help build your dog’s confidence and social skills. They may encounter different surfaces to walk on, new people, or other dogs. These experiences can help your dog become more adaptable and comfortable in a range of situations.

If your schedule allows, try rotating between a few different walking routes each week. You don’t need to travel far to create a new adventure. Even visiting a different street or local trail can make the walk more exciting for your dog.

Dog on walk – image via Canva

Making Every Walk Count

A great walk is about more than just exercise. It’s an opportunity to enrich your dog’s life, reinforce good behavior, and strengthen your connection. By allowing time for sniffing, incorporating training, and adding variety to your routine, you can transform daily walks into meaningful experiences that benefit both you and your dog.

With a little extra thought and flexibility, you will likely notice a happier, calmer, and more satisfied companion at the end of every outing. And chances are, you will enjoy the walks a lot more too.