“Walkies?”
Usually, that one word is enough to cause absolute chaos.
But after a winter of warm beds, shorter walks and convincing you that the couch is actually where they belong, your dog might need a little encouragement to get moving again.
The good news is that dog walking doesn’t have to mean doing the same lap around the block every day. Spring is the perfect excuse to shake things up, get outside and make their walks something you both look forward to again.
Here are 8 dog walking tips to follow:
1. Let them choose the route
Left or right?
Next time you head out, let your dog decide.
Giving them a little more freedom to choose where they walk and what they stop to investigate can turn an ordinary outing into an adventure.
You might not get very far, but they’ll have a great time getting there.
2. Let them sniff EVERYTHING
We know. You’ve been standing at the same patch of grass for what feels like 45 minutes.
But sniffing is a huge part of how dogs explore their surroundings.
Instead of rushing them along, occasionally make dog walking less about distance and more about letting them sniff, explore and take their time.
A shorter sniff-filled walk can offer plenty of mental stimulation.
3. Take the treats outside
Treats aren’t only for sitting nicely in the kitchen.
Take a few of your dog’s favourites along and turn your walk into a game. You can reward good behaviour, practise a few commands or use treats to keep their attention when there are approximately 700 more interesting things happening around them.
Just remember that treats still count towards their daily food intake.
4. Bring their favourite toy
If your dog would follow their favourite ball to the ends of the earth, use it to your advantage.
Take a toy along to a safe open space and add a few short games to your outing.
You don’t need an hour-long fetch marathon. A little play can break up the walk and give them another reason to get excited about heading outside.
5. Try somewhere new
Same pavement. Same tree. Same neighbour’s gate that absolutely MUST be sniffed every single day.
Your usual route is convenient, but every now and then, go somewhere different.
A new park or dog-friendly walking spot comes with different sights, smells and things to explore. Even walking your normal route in the opposite direction can make things feel surprisingly new to your dog.
6. Make sure their dog walking gear still fits
When last did you actually check?
Before spring adventures get properly underway, have a look at your dog’s collar, harness and lead.
Check for worn or damaged areas and make sure everything still fits comfortably and securely. Puppies grow, weight can change and gear doesn’t last forever.
You don’t want to discover that the harness is suddenly too tight when you’re already halfway down the road.
7. Don’t forget the water
Those cool winter walks are disappearing quickly.
As South African temperatures start climbing, think about when you’re heading out and how long you’ll be away.
For longer adventures, take water with you and give your dog opportunities to stop and drink. On hotter days, aim for cooler mornings or evenings rather than heading out in the middle of the heat.
And keep an eye on the ground. Pavements and tar can become very hot in the sun and may be uncomfortable for paws.
Discover ways to keep your pets cool this summer.
8. Turn dog walking into quality time
It’s easy for a daily walk to become another thing on the to-do list.
Lead on. Around the block. Home. Done.
But for your dog, it could be one of the best parts of their day.
Let them sniff. Play a game. Try a new route. Spend an extra few minutes outside together.
You don’t have to make every walk an adventure worthy of its own documentary. A few small changes can make getting outside more interesting for both of you.
Discover ways to exercise with your dog.
Ready for your next adventure?
Spring is calling, and your dog has places to sniff.
Before you head out on your dog walking escapades, make sure you’re stocked up for all the walks, games and adventures ahead.
From treats and toys to pet essentials, you’ll find plenty for your favourite walking buddy at the Onepet Store.
Now, where did you put that lead?
Your OnePet Store Family,