Don’t Underestimate The Benefits Of Walking Your Dog
Just because your dog is not burning many calories during a walk, you should not underestimate the benefits it provides to your dog. A walk provides the foundation of your dog’s mental and physical good health.
Going for a walk with your dog appeals to your dog’s instinct to be part of a team with you. Also, by exposing your dog to new situations, your dog will become more adaptable to things in the world, and your dog will regard you as its teacher and protector. Walking reinforces that sense of partnership in your dog and fortifies the bond between the two of you.
As indicated earlier, walking your dog burns off excess energy in a way that letting them out in your backyard will not. Regular walks will help your dog relax at home. You will find that a relaxed dog is easier to train and better behaved at home.
Think of your dog as an athlete. Most dogs need an hour of physical activity each day to help them stay in optimal health free of disease. Certain breeds, such as working or herding breeds, need more than an hour every day. Regardless of the breed or size of your dog, research shows one clear fact: sedentary dogs usually become overweight dogs. Overweight dogs eventually develop a host of health problems, such as joint problems and heart disease. Daily walking is the best way to keep them happy and healthy.
Important: This content reflects information from various individuals and organizations and may offer alternative or opposing points of view. It should not be used for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. As always, you should consult with your healthcare provider about your specific health needs.
Do you burn more calories walking with a dog?
If you walk a dog for an hour each day of the week, you have burned 1,435 calories during that time you could have spent sitting behind a desk and not burning anything. It only takes 3,500 burned calories to lose one pound, so after a week, dog walkers are nearly half way there.
Burn more calories walking your dog
8 calories per pound per mile This means a 20 pound dog will only burn about 64 calories during a one hour walk.