If your dog isn’t enjoying their walks it’s important that you try to work out why, and adjust their routine so they enjoy them again. We’ve listed some of the most common reasons below:
Fear: If your dog is scared of other dogs, people, or going outside, walks are likely to be scary and not fun. If you believe this is the case, seek the advice of an accredited behaviourist and in the meanwhile, try to think of other ways to keep your dog busy in the house and garden.
Fitness: It’s important that your dog stays fit enough to enjoy their walks. If you think your dog is struggling, speak to your vet about how you can improve their diet and exercise regime.
Boredom: It’s important that your dog is able to spend time sniffing, having fun, running and playing on their walks, otherwise they are likely to get bored. If you find yourself rushing dog walks, try to find a better time of the day to walk them, or consider hiring a dog walker.
How much should I walk my arthritic dog?
Arthritis is a painful condition of the joints, which can make moving around difficult and uncomfortable. If your dog has been diagnosed with arthritis, it’s important to keep them moving regularly throughout the day to prevent their joints seizing up, however, the exercise they do should be low impact. Walking and gentle running is fine, but it’s best to avoid chasing, jumping, and skidding. Try to walk them on comfortable surfaces such as pavements and grass, and avoid rough ground such as gravel and sand. It’s also sensible to avoid steep slopes, as they put extra pressure on the joints. For more information on caring for an arthritic dog, take a look at our advice.
What Will Happen to Your Body If You Walk Every Day
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