Dog walking and its benefits for physical and mental health
Dogs are pets that have been considered humankind's loyal companions since time immemorial. However, you must perform a task that is considered tiring for most dog owners. This task, called "walking," is not only intended to relieve your loyal friend's need, but also to maintain his physical, mental, and psychological health.
We'll talk about 5 benefits of walking your pet.
physical health
Dogs are very active animals, and by nature, they love exercise and a lot of walking. However, when we bring them home, we limit their natural movement. Even if we keep them in the yard, this space is insufficient, and dogs need to play with you and walk longer distances. Therefore, we often see veterinarians providing several guidelines, including walking dogs for exercise and maintaining a stable weight.
But when the dog gains weight, of course he will tell you to reduce the amount of food given, but do not neglect exercise and gradually increase the distance the dog walks daily.
It is well known that dogs need to walk for 30 minutes daily, and according to the World Health Organization, humans need the same amount of time, or 30 minutes of daily walking, to maintain their fitness.
From the above, we conclude that dogs always need us to maintain their fitness and weight, and we humans need a walking companion. Most people do not prefer to go for a walk without a partner.
mental health
Dogs are naturally social and exploratory. Taking them for a walk to different places and letting them explore without intrusion will help them develop their focus and senses, as well as help them meet new people.
Self-confidence and increased confidence in you as its owner. When you go out for a walk with your little one, you can take a few treats in your pocket to train him on some commands such as: sit, bring, walk near you, and stop. So, if you suffer from your dog not responding to some of your commands, and he is extremely afraid when he sees new people, let him go for continuous walks every day, and you will notice the difference.
Avoid quarrels
Dogs that stay indoors don't get to know new people or even other animals, so when your dog goes out a little and gets to know another animal, he or she may show signs of fear or anger, and the likelihood of a fight or argument between them is very high.
Therefore, it is recommended that you first put a leash on his mouth when you go out together. This will initially protect him from eating harmful foods that he might find along the way, and ultimately eliminate the possibility of him attacking passersby out of fear of them.
After going outside for a sustained period, you will notice changes in your dog's social behavior. He will become more affectionate toward the world, less afraid of cars and other sounds, obedient, and have increased self-confidence.
Mental health for dogs, avoiding depression
When a dog is prevented from going for walks and learning about the world, some of its energy is suppressed, in addition to some strange and annoying behaviors such as: biting furniture and its owner, destroying everything in its path, constant barking, excessive nervousness, and disobedience. One of the most significant psychological harms is depression.
Points to pay attention to when walking dogs:
Make sure to take water with you while walking, because during long walks your dog needs to drink water.
Regularly monitor your dog's health. Dogs suffering from certain diseases require ongoing veterinary advice.
Taking care of your dog's personal hygiene.
Pay attention when your dog stops and tries to smell something, and prevent him from eating street food.
Make sure you have a collar that fits your dog.
Always make sure you have the best supplies your dog needs. You can visit the Nature Without Borders website and download its app to get the best products with the best deals.